Comparative Analysis of Leading Payroll Solutions
By Richard "Rick" Callahan | Published: Not Specified | Category: Best Payroll Companies
About Best Payroll Companies
Payroll software automates the process of paying employees, including calculating wages, withholding taxes, and managing deductions. These systems ensure compliance with tax laws and streamline compensation management for businesses.
Scoring Criteria
- → Payroll Features
- → Tax Compliance
- → HR & Benefits
- → Ease of Use
- → Integrations
- → Customer Support
- → Pricing & Value
The Best Best Payroll Companies
#10
OnPay
By OnPay, Inc.
Full-service payroll and HR solution focused on small businesses and specific niches like agriculture and non-profits.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: Small Businesses, Non-profits, Farms/Agriculture, Churches
Key Features
- ✓All-Inclusive Pricing: One simple monthly fee includes all payroll and core HR features. (Pricing Model)
- ✓Multi-State Payroll: Handles payroll across multiple states at no extra charge. (Included)
- ✓Industry Specializations: Specific features and tax handling for agriculture (Form 943), non-profits, churches. (Feature)
- ✓Integrated HR Tools: Includes offer letters, onboarding checklists, PTO management, and document storage. (Included)
Scorecard (Overall: 86.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Standard Plan
$40.00 / Monthly Base + $6/person/month
- Full-service payroll
- Unlimited pay runs
- Multi-state payroll
- Automated tax filing (Federal, State, Local)
- W-2/1099 processing
- Integrated HR tools
- Employee self-service
- Integrations (QuickBooks, Xero)
Limitations: Web-only access for admins, Benefits admin integrations may cost extra
Pros
- + Simple, transparent, all-inclusive pricing model
- + Excellent value for the features offered
- + Strong customer support reputation
- + Specialized support for certain industries
- + Includes basic HR tools
Cons
- - Fewer advanced HR features compared to larger HCM suites
- - Limited number of direct integrations
- - Admin interface is web-only
Verdict
"OnPay offers exceptional value for small businesses, particularly those in niche industries like agriculture or non-profits, providing comprehensive payroll and basic HR features in one affordable package."
#9
Ceridian Dayforce
By Ceridian HCM, Inc.
Comprehensive cloud HCM platform with strong capabilities in payroll, workforce management, and talent intelligence for medium to large enterprises.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Medium Businesses, Large Enterprises, Global Companies, Compliance-Heavy Industries
Key Features
- ✓Continuous Calculation Engine: Calculates net pay continuously throughout the pay cycle for accuracy and preview. (Core Feature)
- ✓Unified HCM Data Model: Single database for all modules (Payroll, Time, Benefits, Talent, HR). (Core Platform)
- ✓Global Payroll Coverage: Offers strong native payroll capabilities across multiple countries. (Feature)
- ✓Dayforce Wallet: On-demand pay solution allowing employees access to earned wages before payday. (Add-on Feature)
Scorecard (Overall: 86.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
HCM Suite
Contact Vendor
- Payroll
- Workforce Management (Time & Attendance, Scheduling)
- Benefits
- HR
- Talent Management
- Analytics
Limitations: Requires custom quote, Generally targets mid-market and enterprise
Pros
- + Continuous pay calculation enhances accuracy and visibility
- + Strong unified platform across HCM functions
- + Excellent workforce management capabilities
- + Good global payroll options and innovative features like Dayforce Wallet
Cons
- - Quote-based pricing, typically higher cost
- - Implementation can be complex
- - Interface can feel dense due to the breadth of features
Verdict
"Ceridian Dayforce is a powerful HCM solution for medium to large organizations, particularly those with complex workforce management needs, offering advanced continuous payroll calculation and strong global capabilities."
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#8
Workday HCM
By Workday, Inc.
Enterprise-grade cloud HCM suite offering Finance, HR, Payroll, and Planning solutions, primarily for large, global organizations.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Large Enterprises, Global Corporations, Complex Organizational Structures
Key Features
- ✓Unified Finance, HR, Payroll: Single system architecture for core enterprise functions. (Core Platform)
- ✓Global Payroll Capabilities: Native payroll for select countries (US, Canada, UK, France) and connectors for others. (Included/Connector-Based)
- ✓Continuous Payroll Calculation: Calculates payroll throughout the pay period, enabling real-time auditing. (Feature)
- ✓Advanced Analytics & Planning: Sophisticated tools for workforce planning, reporting, and financial analysis. (Included Modules)
Scorecard (Overall: 86.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Enterprise Suite
Contact Vendor
- Full HCM Suite (HR, Payroll, Talent, Benefits, Time Tracking, Learning)
- Financial Management (Optional)
- Analytics & Reporting
- Global Compliance
Limitations: High cost, complex implementation, Primarily for large organizations
Pros
- + Truly unified platform for Finance, HR, and Payroll
- + Powerful features for complex, global organizations
- + Continuous payroll calculation enables proactive auditing
- + Strong analytics and planning capabilities
Cons
- - Very expensive and resource-intensive to implement and maintain
- - Complexity can lead to a steeper learning curve
- - Not suitable for small or medium businesses
- - Limited native global payroll footprint
Verdict
"Workday HCM is a leading choice for large, global enterprises needing a unified, powerful system for finance, HR, and payroll, capable of handling significant complexity, but comes at a premium price and requires significant investment."
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#7
Paylocity
By Paylocity Holding Corporation
Comprehensive HCM suite including payroll, HR, talent management, and workforce management for mid-market to enterprise clients.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Medium Businesses, Large Enterprises, Companies Needing Full HCM Suite
Key Features
- ✓Unified HCM Platform: Combines payroll with HR, benefits, talent acquisition, time & labor, and engagement tools. (Core Platform)
- ✓Data Analytics & Reporting: Advanced reporting and analytics across all HCM functions. (Included)
- ✓Employee Engagement Tools: Features like community forums, peer recognition, and surveys. (Included Modules)
- ✓Compliance Dashboard: Tools to monitor and manage compliance requirements. (Included)
Scorecard (Overall: 85.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Standard Offering
Contact Vendor
- Payroll
- Tax Services
- HR Core
- Self-Service Portal
- Mobile App
- Basic Reporting
Limitations: Quote required, pricing varies significantly
Expanded Modules
Contact Vendor
- Time & Labor
- Benefits Administration
- Talent Acquisition
- Performance Management
- Compensation Management
- Advanced Analytics
Limitations: Modular pricing increases cost
Pros
- + Very comprehensive suite of HCM features beyond just payroll
- + Strong focus on employee engagement and modern HR tools
- + Powerful reporting and analytics capabilities
- + Good mobile app experience
Cons
- - Pricing is quote-based and generally targets mid-market and larger businesses
- - Can be complex to implement and navigate due to extensive features
- - May be too feature-rich for small businesses
Verdict
"Paylocity is a top choice for mid-sized to larger organizations seeking a modern, unified HCM platform with robust payroll integrated tightly with extensive HR, talent, and engagement functionalities."
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#6
Square Payroll
By Block, Inc.
Simple payroll solution integrated with the Square POS and payments ecosystem, ideal for retail and service businesses.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Square POS Users, Small Retail/Service Businesses, Businesses Paying Contractors
Key Features
- ✓Square Ecosystem Integration: Syncs employee hours from Square POS and team management tools directly to payroll. (Core Feature)
- ✓Simple Pricing: Transparent, flat-rate pricing. (Pricing Model)
- ✓Contractor Payments: Option to pay only 1099 contractors. (Specific Plan)
- ✓Automated Tax Filings: Handles federal and state payroll tax filings. (Included)
Scorecard (Overall: 81.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Pay Contractors Only
$6.00 / Per Person Paid/Month
- Pay 1099 contractors
- Direct deposit
- 1099-NEC filing
Limitations: Contractors only, no W-2 employees
Pay W-2 Employees & Contractors
$35.00 / Monthly Base + $6/person paid/month
- Full-service payroll for W-2 & 1099
- Automated tax filing
- Employee self-service
- Integrates with Square POS timecards
- Benefits admin options
Limitations: Basic HR features, Fewer integrations outside Square ecosystem
Pros
- + Seamless integration with Square POS and ecosystem
- + Very simple and transparent pricing
- + Easy to use, especially for existing Square customers
- + Good option for businesses primarily paying contractors
Cons
- - Limited HR and benefits administration features
- - Fewer customization options
- - Integrations outside of Square are limited
- - Support primarily online
Verdict
"Square Payroll is an excellent, cost-effective choice for small businesses already using Square POS, offering simplicity and seamless integration for basic payroll needs."
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#5
Rippling
By Rippling
Unified platform that combines HR, IT, and Finance, including a powerful global payroll module.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Tech Companies, Global Workforce, Businesses Needing Integrated HR/IT, Medium Businesses
Key Features
- ✓Unified Employee Data: Single system for employee data across HR, IT (device management, app provisioning), and Payroll. (Core Platform Feature)
- ✓Global Payroll: Process payroll for employees and contractors in multiple countries. (Add-on Module)
- ✓Automation Workflows: Build custom workflows for onboarding, offboarding, promotions, etc., linking HR, IT, and Payroll actions. (Core Platform Feature)
- ✓Time & Attendance: Integrated time tracking that syncs directly with payroll. (Add-on Module)
Scorecard (Overall: 86.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Core Platform
$8.00 / Per User/Month (Minimums Apply)
- Employee management
- Basic onboarding/offboarding
- Workflow automation builder
- Permissions
Limitations: Payroll, Benefits, etc., are add-on modules
US Payroll Module
Contact Vendor
- Full-service payroll
- Automated tax filing
- Direct deposit
- W-2/1099 processing
- Time tracking integration
Limitations: Requires Core Platform subscription
Global Payroll Module
Contact Vendor
- Payroll processing in supported countries
- Compliance management
Limitations: Requires Core Platform and quote
Pros
- + Excellent integration between HR, IT, and Payroll
- + Powerful automation capabilities
- + Modern user interface
- + Strong offering for global payroll needs
Cons
- - Modular pricing can add up quickly
- - Requires buying into the broader Rippling ecosystem
- - Can be overkill for businesses needing only basic payroll
Verdict
"Rippling is a cutting-edge platform best suited for tech-savvy companies, especially those with global teams or seeking deep integration between HR, IT, and finance functions, including payroll."
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#4
Paychex Flex
By Paychex, Inc.
Scalable payroll and HR solution serving businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large enterprises.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Small Businesses, Medium Businesses, Large Enterprises, Businesses Needing HR Support
Key Features
- ✓Flexible Payroll Input: Multiple ways to enter payroll data (online, mobile app, phone). (Included)
- ✓Comprehensive HR Services: Offers recruiting, onboarding, performance management, and benefits administration. (Tier-dependent/Add-on)
- ✓Dedicated Support Specialist: Access to a dedicated payroll specialist for assistance. (Often Included)
- ✓Compliance Expertise: Strong focus on tax and regulatory compliance across jurisdictions. (Core Feature)
Scorecard (Overall: 85.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Flex Essentials
$39.00 / Monthly Base + $5/employee/month
- Online payroll processing
- Tax services
- Direct deposit/pay cards
- Standard reporting
- Employee self-service
Limitations: Limited HR features, Online only support
Flex Select
Contact Vendor
- Essentials features
- Dedicated payroll specialist
- Paper check option
- Labor compliance poster kit
Limitations: Requires custom quote
Flex Pro
Contact Vendor
- Select features
- Workers' comp reporting
- State Unemployment Insurance service
- Employee screening
- General ledger integration
Limitations: Requires custom quote
Pros
- + Highly scalable platform suitable for various business sizes
- + Offers dedicated support specialists
- + Comprehensive suite of HR services available
- + Strong compliance framework
Cons
- - Pricing structure can be complex and often requires a quote
- - Interface may feel dated compared to newer platforms
- - Base package (Essentials) is quite limited
Verdict
"Paychex Flex is a robust, scalable solution ideal for businesses needing strong compliance support and integrated HR services, particularly those who value having a dedicated support contact."
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#3
ADP Run
By ADP, LLC
Payroll and HR platform from a major industry player, tailored for small businesses (typically under 50 employees).
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Small Businesses, Compliance-Focused Businesses, Businesses Seeking Scalability
Key Features
- ✓Robust Payroll Processing: Handles complex payroll calculations, deductions, garnishments, and reporting. (Included)
- ✓Tax Filing Guarantee: ADP handles tax calculation, filing, and remittance, often with accuracy guarantees. (Included)
- ✓HR Tools & Support: Includes hiring tools, background checks, HR forms, and access to HR helpdesks. (Tier-dependent)
- ✓Scalability: Easy transition path to ADP's more advanced platforms (e.g., Workforce Now) as businesses grow. (Platform Benefit)
Scorecard (Overall: 84.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Essential
Contact Vendor
- Payroll processing
- Tax filing
- Direct deposit
- Reporting
- Employee access
Limitations: Basic HR features
Enhanced
Contact Vendor
- Essential features
- Check signing & stuffing
- State unemployment insurance management
- Background checks
Limitations: Requires custom quote
Complete
Contact Vendor
- Enhanced features
- HR HelpDesk
- HR forms & documents
- Compliance database
Limitations: Requires custom quote
HR Pro
Contact Vendor
- Complete features
- Enhanced HR support
- Training & development tools
Limitations: Requires custom quote
Pros
- + Industry-leading expertise in payroll and tax compliance
- + Comprehensive feature set, especially in higher tiers
- + Scalable solutions for growing businesses
- + Strong reporting capabilities
Cons
- - Pricing isn't transparent and requires a custom quote
- - Interface can be less intuitive than some modern competitors
- - Can be more expensive than SMB-focused alternatives
Verdict
"ADP Run is a strong contender for small businesses prioritizing compliance, robust features, and scalability, backed by a reputable industry leader, but requires obtaining a custom quote."
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#2
QuickBooks Payroll
By Intuit Inc.
Payroll solution tightly integrated with the QuickBooks accounting ecosystem, suitable for businesses already using QuickBooks.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Small Businesses, QuickBooks Users, Accountant-Managed Payroll
Key Features
- ✓Seamless QuickBooks Integration: Automatic syncing of payroll data with QuickBooks accounting software. (Core Feature)
- ✓Automated Payroll & Taxes: Calculates paychecks, files, and pays payroll taxes automatically. (Included (Tier-dependent))
- ✓Same-Day Direct Deposit: Option for expedited employee payments. (Available (Tier-dependent))
- ✓HR Support Center: Access to HR advisors and compliance resources. (Premium Tiers)
Scorecard (Overall: 85.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Core
$45.00 / Monthly Base + $5/employee/month
- Full-service payroll
- Automated taxes & forms (Federal & State)
- Next-day direct deposit
Limitations: Limited HR support, Self-setup
Premium
$75.00 / Monthly Base + $8/employee/month
- All Core features
- Same-day direct deposit
- Expert review
- HR support center
- Workers' comp admin
Limitations: Time tracking separate cost
Elite
$125.00 / Monthly Base + $10/employee/month
- All Premium features
- Expert setup
- Tax penalty protection
- Personal HR advisor
- Time tracking included
Limitations: Highest price point
Pros
- + Best-in-class integration with QuickBooks accounting
- + Familiar interface for QuickBooks users
- + Strong tax calculation and filing features
- + Offers same-day direct deposit options
Cons
- - Less comprehensive HR features compared to dedicated HR platforms
- - Customer support quality can be inconsistent
- - Can be pricey, especially higher tiers
Verdict
"The ideal choice for businesses heavily invested in the QuickBooks ecosystem, offering seamless accounting integration and robust payroll features, though HR capabilities are secondary."
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View Top Ranked Software
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#1
Gusto
By Gusto, Inc.
Integrated platform for payroll, benefits, and HR designed primarily for small to medium-sized businesses.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Small Businesses, Medium Businesses, Startups
Key Features
- ✓Full-Service Payroll: Automated payroll processing, unlimited pay runs, direct deposit, and year-end W-2/1099 forms. (Included)
- ✓Tax Filing & Compliance: Automatic calculation, filing, and payment of federal, state, and local payroll taxes. (Included)
- ✓Benefits Administration: Management of health insurance, 401(k)s, workers' comp, and commuter benefits. (Add-on/Tiered)
- ✓Employee Self-Service: Portal for employees to access pay stubs, tax forms, and manage personal information. (Included)
Scorecard (Overall: 88.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Simple
$40.00 / Monthly Base + $6/person/month
- Full-service single-state payroll
- Employee self-service
- Basic hiring & onboarding tools
- Integrations
Limitations: Single state only, Limited HR tools
Plus
$80.00 / Monthly Base + $12/person/month
- All Simple features
- Multi-state payroll
- Next-day direct deposit
- Advanced hiring & onboarding
- PTO management
Limitations: Time tracking is extra
Premium
Contact Vendor
- All Plus features
- Dedicated support
- HR resource center
- Compliance alerts
Limitations: Custom pricing
Pros
- + Highly intuitive interface
- + Strong focus on employee experience
- + Excellent automation for core payroll and tax tasks
- + Transparent pricing for lower tiers
Cons
- - Can become costly for larger teams on higher tiers
- - Limited customization options compared to enterprise solutions
- - Phone support hours can be limited
Verdict
"Gusto excels for SMBs needing an easy-to-use, integrated platform for payroll, basic HR, and benefits, offering a great user experience for both admins and employees."
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Final Thoughts
The payroll software landscape offers diverse solutions, from simple, SMB-focused platforms like Gusto and Square Payroll to comprehensive HCM suites like Paylocity, Workday, and Ceridian Dayforce targeting larger enterprises. Key differentiators include the breadth of HR features, integration capabilities (especially with accounting or POS systems), ease of use, pricing transparency, and suitability for specific business sizes or industries. Choosing the right provider depends heavily on a company's specific needs, budget, and growth trajectory.
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