Top Online Payroll Software Comparison
By Amanda Reyes | Published: 2025-03-09 | Category: Online Payroll
About Online Payroll
Online payroll software automates the process of paying employees, including calculating wages, withholding taxes, and managing filings. These cloud-based systems streamline payroll tasks for businesses of various sizes.
Scoring Criteria
- → Payroll Features
- → HR Features
- → Ease of Use
- → Integrations
- → Customer Support
- → Pricing/Value
The Best Online Payroll
#10
Paycor
By Paycor, Inc.
Unified Human Capital Management (HCM) platform offering payroll, HR, talent management, and workforce management.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based, Mobile App
Best For: Medium Businesses, Large Businesses, Companies needing integrated HCM, Businesses focused on talent management
Key Features
- ✓Integrated HCM Suite: Combines payroll with HR, talent acquisition, learning management, and analytics. (Platform Breadth)
- ✓Payroll & Tax Compliance: Robust payroll engine with strong compliance features and tax management. (Core Functionality)
- ✓Talent Management: Tools for recruiting, onboarding, performance reviews, and succession planning. (Key Strength)
- ✓Workforce Management: Includes time and attendance, scheduling, and labor analytics. (Integrated Module)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Basic
$99.00 / Monthly Base + Per Employee
- Payroll & Tax Filing
- Onboarding
- Employee Self-Service
- Basic Reporting
Limitations: Limited HR and Talent features
Essential
$149.00 / Monthly Base + Per Employee
- Basic features
- HR Management
- Time & Attendance
- Advanced Reporting
Complete
$199.00 / Monthly Base + Per Employee
- Essential features
- Talent Management (Recruiting, Performance)
- Compensation Planning
- Analytics
HCM
Contact Vendor
- Complete features
- Advanced Analytics
- Learning Management
- Dedicated Support Options
Pros
- + Comprehensive suite of HCM tools
- + Strong talent management capabilities
- + Scalable for medium to large businesses
- + Good analytics and reporting
Cons
- - Can be expensive, especially for smaller businesses
- - Interface may seem complex to some users
- - Pricing requires contacting sales for higher tiers
Verdict
"A powerful HCM platform ideal for mid-market and larger companies needing integrated payroll, HR, and talent management features."
#9
Zenefits
By Zenefits
HR-focused platform that offers payroll as an add-on, strong in benefits administration and HR management.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based, Mobile App
Best For: Small Businesses, Medium Businesses, Companies prioritizing HR and Benefits, Businesses seeking an all-in-one HRIS
Key Features
- ✓Strong HR Core: Robust features for onboarding, employee records, compliance, and time tracking. (Platform Focus)
- ✓Benefits Administration: Integrated management of health insurance and other benefits (often acts as broker). (Key Strength)
- ✓Payroll Add-on: Full-service payroll integrated with the HR platform. (Optional Module)
- ✓Mobile App: Employee access to pay stubs, time tracking, PTO requests. (Convenience Feature)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.5 / 10.0)
Pricing
Essentials (HR Platform)
$8.00 / Per Employee Per Month
- Core HR (Hiring, Onboarding, Records)
- Time & Scheduling
- Mobile App
Limitations: Payroll is an add-on cost
Growth (HR Platform)
$14.00 / Per Employee Per Month
- Essentials features
- Compensation Management
- Performance Management
Zen (HR Platform)
$21.00 / Per Employee Per Month
- Growth features
- Employee Engagement Surveys
- People Hub
Payroll Add-on
$6.00 / Per Employee Per Month (added to HR plan)
- Full-service payroll
- Automated tax filing
- Direct deposit
- Garnishments
Pros
- + Comprehensive HR and benefits administration tools
- + Well-designed user interface
- + Good mobile app experience
- + All-in-one platform approach
Cons
- - Payroll is an add-on, increasing the overall cost
- - Can be more expensive than payroll-first solutions
- - Some users report customer service issues
Verdict
"A strong contender for businesses seeking an HR-centric platform with integrated payroll and benefits administration capabilities."
#8
Square Payroll
By Block, Inc.
Payroll solution integrated with the Square ecosystem, ideal for retail, restaurant, and service businesses using Square POS.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based, Integrated with Square POS/App
Best For: Small Businesses, Retailers, Restaurants, Existing Square users, Businesses paying contractors
Key Features
- ✓Square Ecosystem Integration: Seamlessly syncs with Square POS, timecards, and team management. (Key Differentiator)
- ✓Simple Pricing: Straightforward pricing for employees and contractor-only plans. (Ease of Understanding)
- ✓Automated Tax Filings: Handles federal and state payroll tax calculations, payments, and filings. (Core Functionality)
- ✓Employee & Contractor Payments: Easy processing for both W-2 employees and 1099 contractors. (Flexibility)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.5 / 10.0)
Pricing
Pay Employees & Contractors
$35.00 / Monthly Base + Per Person Paid
- Full-service payroll
- Automated tax filing
- Multi-state payroll
- Time tracking integration (Square)
- Employee app/portal
- Benefits options (via partners)
Pay Contractors Only
$6.00 / Per Contractor Paid Per Month
- 1099 processing
- Direct deposit
- No base fee
Limitations: Only for businesses paying contractors exclusively
Pros
- + Excellent integration for existing Square users
- + Simple, transparent pricing
- + Easy to use interface
- + Good contractor payment plan
Cons
- - Limited HR features
- - Fewer integrations outside the Square ecosystem
- - May lack advanced features needed by larger or complex businesses
Verdict
"The ideal payroll solution for businesses already using Square POS, offering seamless integration and simplicity."
#7
Patriot Payroll
By Patriot Software, LLC
Affordable and easy-to-use online payroll software designed specifically for American small businesses.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based
Best For: Very Small Businesses, Startups, Budget-conscious businesses, Businesses needing basic payroll
Key Features
- ✓Affordable Pricing: Low base cost and per-employee fee, with clear pricing tiers. (Key Differentiator)
- ✓Ease of Use: Simple, no-frills interface focused on core payroll tasks. (Core Strength)
- ✓Payroll Options: Offers Basic Payroll (DIY taxes) and Full Service Payroll (automated taxes). (Flexibility)
- ✓Accounting Integration: Optional integration with Patriot Accounting software. (Add-on/Integration)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.5 / 10.0)
Pricing
Basic Payroll
$10.00 / Monthly Base + Per Employee
- Payroll processing
- Direct deposit or printable checks
- Employee portal
- Setup & support
Limitations: Requires manual tax filing
Full Service Payroll
$30.00 / Monthly Base + Per Employee
- Basic Payroll features
- Automated tax filing and deposits (Federal, State, Local)
Pros
- + Highly affordable, excellent value
- + Very easy to learn and use
- + Good customer support
- + Flexible payroll options (Basic vs. Full Service)
Cons
- - Limited HR features
- - Fewer integrations compared to larger platforms
- - Basic reporting capabilities
Verdict
"A top choice for very small businesses prioritizing affordability and ease of use for core payroll functions."
#6
OnPay
By OnPay, Inc.
Straightforward payroll and HR solution targeting small to medium-sized businesses, including those in specific industries like agriculture.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based
Best For: Small Businesses, Medium Businesses, Restaurants, Farms/Agriculture, Non-profits
Key Features
- ✓All-Inclusive Pricing: Single monthly fee includes full-service payroll, tax filings, HR tools, and integrations. (Key Differentiator)
- ✓Industry-Specific Features: Handles complexities like Form 943 for agricultural businesses and tipped wages. (Niche Strength)
- ✓Integrated HR Tools: Onboarding, offer letters, PTO management, compliance resources included. (Included Value)
- ✓Multi-State Payroll: Process payroll across multiple states at no extra cost. (Included Value)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.2 / 10.0)
Pricing
All-Inclusive
$40.00 / Monthly Base + Per Employee
- Full-service payroll (all 50 states)
- Unlimited payroll runs
- W-2 and 1099 processing
- Integrated HR tools (onboarding, PTO)
- Employee self-service
- Key integrations (QuickBooks, Xero)
Limitations: Fewer advanced HR features compared to ADP/Paychex, Less extensive integration library than some competitors
Pros
- + Simple, transparent, all-inclusive pricing
- + Excellent customer support
- + Strong features for specific industries (agriculture, restaurants)
- + Easy to set up and use
Cons
- - Lacks some advanced HR/talent management features
- - Integration options are good but not as broad as some larger players
Verdict
"An excellent value proposition, particularly for small businesses, non-profits, and niche industries seeking straightforward, comprehensive payroll with great support."
#5
Rippling
By Rippling
A modern platform that integrates Payroll, HR, and IT management, automating employee data across systems.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based
Best For: Tech Startups, Medium Businesses, Companies needing integrated HR/IT, Globally distributed teams
Key Features
- ✓Unified Employee Data: Central platform for HR, IT, and Payroll data, ensuring consistency. (Key Differentiator)
- ✓Global Payroll: Process payroll for employees and contractors internationally. (Core Functionality)
- ✓App & Device Management: Automate app provisioning/deprovisioning and manage company devices. (Unique IT Integration)
- ✓Workflow Automations: Build custom workflows across HR, IT, and finance tasks. (Advanced Feature)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Core Platform + Payroll Module
$8.00 / Per Employee Per Month (Requires Core Platform)
- Full-service US payroll
- Automated tax filing
- Global payroll add-on
- Time & attendance integration
- Requires Rippling Unity Platform base fee
Limitations: Payroll is a module, requires base platform subscription
Pros
- + Excellent integration across HR, IT, and Payroll
- + Modern and intuitive user interface
- + Strong automation capabilities
- + Good for managing distributed/global workforces
Cons
- - Pricing structure (base platform + modules) can be costly
- - Customer support can be slow at times
- - Might be overly complex for very small businesses needing only basic payroll
Verdict
"A cutting-edge platform ideal for tech-savvy companies seeking deep integration between HR, Payroll, and IT management."
#4
Paychex Flex
By Paychex, Inc.
A scalable, all-in-one solution for payroll, HR, and benefits, suitable for small businesses to larger enterprises.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based, Mobile App
Best For: Small Businesses, Medium Businesses, Large Enterprises, Businesses needing strong compliance support, Companies seeking PEO services
Key Features
- ✓Payroll Processing & Tax Services: Automated payroll, tax administration, W-2s, and 1099s. (Core Functionality)
- ✓HR Administration: Onboarding, performance management, benefits administration, HR advisory services. (Scalable Module)
- ✓Time & Attendance: Multiple options for time tracking, including mobile and biometric clocks. (Integrated Add-on)
- ✓Reporting & Analytics: Customizable reports on payroll, HR, and compliance metrics. (Standard Feature)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing
Flex Essentials
$39.00 / Monthly Base + Per Employee
- Online payroll processing
- Tax services
- Direct deposit/pay cards
- Standard reporting
- Employee self-service
Limitations: Basic HR features, Limited support options
Flex Select
Contact Vendor
- Essentials features
- Dedicated payroll specialist
- Paper check options
- Basic HR library
Flex Pro
Contact Vendor
- Select features
- General ledger integration
- Workers' comp reporting
- Onboarding tools
- Employee screening
Pros
- + Scalable platform suitable for growth
- + Wide range of HR and PEO services available
- + Strong compliance features
- + Dedicated support options available
Cons
- - Pricing less transparent for higher tiers
- - Interface can feel complex or dated compared to newer platforms
- - Can be more expensive than some competitors
Verdict
"A robust and scalable option, particularly good for businesses prioritizing compliance and HR services alongside payroll."
#3
QuickBooks Payroll
By Intuit Inc.
Payroll solution integrated directly into the QuickBooks accounting ecosystem, ideal for existing QuickBooks users.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based, Integrated with QuickBooks Desktop/Online
Best For: Small Businesses, Medium Businesses, Existing QuickBooks Users, Businesses needing integrated accounting/payroll
Key Features
- ✓Seamless QuickBooks Integration: Payroll data automatically syncs with QuickBooks accounting software. (Key Differentiator)
- ✓Full-Service Payroll: Automated payroll runs, tax calculations, filings, and payments. (Core Functionality)
- ✓Time Tracking Integration: Connects with QuickBooks Time (formerly TSheets) for streamlined time data. (Add-on/Integration)
- ✓Health Benefits & 401(k): Options for managing employee benefits through partners. (Integrated Add-on)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.2 / 10.0)
Pricing
Core
$45.00 / Monthly Base + Per Employee
- Full-service payroll
- Automated taxes & forms
- Next-day direct deposit (optional)
- Employee self-service portal
Premium
$75.00 / Monthly Base + Per Employee
- Core features
- Same-day direct deposit
- Automated time tracking (QuickBooks Time)
- HR support center
- Workers' comp administration
Elite
$125.00 / Monthly Base + Per Employee
- Premium features
- Expert setup review
- Tax penalty protection
- Personal HR advisor
- 24/7 expert product support
Pros
- + Excellent integration with QuickBooks accounting
- + User-friendly interface, especially for QuickBooks users
- + Competitive pricing tiers
- + Strong automation capabilities
Cons
- - HR features are less comprehensive than dedicated HR platforms
- - Best value proposition is primarily for existing QuickBooks users
- - Some features locked behind higher tiers
Verdict
"The best choice for businesses already invested in the QuickBooks ecosystem, offering seamless integration and ease of use."
#2
ADP RUN / Workforce Now
By ADP, LLC.
Scalable payroll and HR solutions catering from small businesses (RUN) to large enterprises (Workforce Now).
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based, Mobile App
Best For: Small Businesses (RUN), Medium Businesses, Large Enterprises (Workforce Now), Companies needing robust HR features, Global Payroll
Key Features
- ✓Payroll Processing: Accurate payroll calculation, tax filing, and compliance management. (Core Functionality)
- ✓HR Suite: Comprehensive HR tools including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and compliance. (Scalable Module)
- ✓Time & Attendance: Integrated time tracking solutions. (Add-on Module)
- ✓Analytics & Reporting: Detailed insights into payroll, HR, and workforce data. (Standard Feature)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Essential (RUN)
Contact Vendor
- Payroll processing
- Tax filing
- Direct deposit
- New hire reporting
Enhanced (RUN)
Contact Vendor
- Essential features
- Check signing & stuffing
- State Unemployment Insurance management
- Background checks
Workforce Now
Contact Vendor
- Highly scalable payroll
- Advanced HR modules
- Talent management
- Benefits administration
- Analytics
Pros
- + Highly scalable for business growth
- + Comprehensive feature set, especially in HR
- + Strong compliance support
- + Reputable and established provider
Cons
- - Pricing is not transparent (quote-based)
- - Can be complex to navigate, especially higher tiers
- - Customer service experiences can be inconsistent
Verdict
"A powerful, scalable solution suitable for businesses of all sizes, particularly those needing robust HR capabilities alongside payroll."
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#1
Gusto
By Gusto, Inc.
Comprehensive payroll, benefits, and HR platform, particularly strong for small to medium-sized businesses.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based
Best For: Small Businesses, Medium Businesses, Startups, Companies seeking integrated HR/Benefits
Key Features
- ✓Full-Service Payroll: Automated payroll processing, tax calculation, filing, and payments across all 50 states. (Core Functionality)
- ✓Employee Benefits: Administration for health insurance, 401(k), workers' comp, and commuter benefits. (Integrated Add-on)
- ✓HR Tools: Onboarding, time tracking, PTO management, compliance assistance. (Integrated Add-on)
- ✓Employee Self-Service: Portal for employees to access pay stubs, tax forms, and manage personal information. (Standard Feature)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.7 / 10.0)
Pricing
Simple
$40.00 / Monthly Base + Per Employee
- Full-service single-state payroll
- Employee self-service
- Basic hiring & onboarding
- Integrations
Limitations: Limited HR features, Single-state payroll only
Plus
$80.00 / Monthly Base + Per Employee
- All Simple features
- Multi-state payroll
- Next-day direct deposit
- Advanced hiring & onboarding
- PTO management
- Time tracking
Premium
Contact Vendor
- All Plus features
- Dedicated support
- HR Resource Center
- Compliance alerts
- Performance reviews
Pros
- + Extremely user-friendly interface
- + Strong integration of payroll, HR, and benefits
- + Excellent automation features
- + Good range of pricing plans
Cons
- - Higher tiers can become expensive
- - Customer support response times can vary
Verdict
"An excellent all-around choice, especially for SMBs looking for an easy-to-use, integrated platform."
Final Thoughts
The online payroll market offers diverse solutions catering to various business sizes and needs. Leading options like Gusto excel in ease of use and integration for SMBs, while ADP and Paychex offer scalability and robust HR for larger enterprises. QuickBooks Payroll is ideal for its ecosystem users, Rippling leads in HR/IT integration, and options like OnPay and Patriot Payroll provide excellent value for budget-conscious small businesses.