BambooHR vs Square Payroll
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
BambooHR
BambooHR is an HR software platform focused on employee data management, onboarding, and performance tracking. It is widely used by small to mid-size companies for its intuitive interface and strong reporting tools. BambooHR excels at centralizing employee records and streamlining HR workflows.
Square Payroll
Square Payroll is a simple and affordable payroll solution built for small businesses, especially those already using Square for payments. It handles full-service payroll, tax filings, and tip management automatically.
Pros
- ✓Clean, intuitive interface that HR teams love
- ✓Excellent onboarding tools with e-signatures and task management
- ✓Strong analytics and customizable reporting
- ✓Good mobile app for employees and managers
Cons
- ✗Payroll is a US-only add-on that costs extra
- ✗Limited functionality for international teams
- ✗Performance management module is basic compared to dedicated tools
Pros
- ✓Very easy to use
- ✓Affordable flat pricing
- ✓Seamless Square POS integration
- ✓Handles tips and hourly workers well
- ✓Full-service tax filing included
Cons
- ✗Limited features for complex payroll needs
- ✗Not suited for larger businesses
- ✗HR features are basic
- ✗Best value only for Square ecosystem users
BambooHR vs Square Payroll: Side by Side
| Factor | BambooHR | Square Payroll |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | HR Software | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $6/employee/mo | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Small to mid-size US businesses focused on HR | Small businesses and restaurants already using Square POS wanting a simple integrated payroll solution |
| Our Pick | — | — |
BambooHR Features
- ✓Employee records
- ✓PTO tracking
- ✓onboarding
- ✓performance reviews
- ✓reporting
Square Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee self-service
- ✓reporting
Pricing Comparison
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Square Payroll if...
- →Small businesses and restaurants already using Square POS wanting a simple integrated payroll solution
Our Take
Choose BambooHR if small to mid-size us businesses focused on hr. Choose Square Payroll if small businesses and restaurants already using square pos wanting a simple integrated payroll solution.
Best For
Small to mid-size US businesses focused on HR
Best For
Small businesses and restaurants already using Square POS wanting a simple integrated payroll solution
Also Consider
If neither BambooHR nor Square Payroll is the right fit, Justworks is worth evaluating.
Justworks
Small businesses wanting Fortune 500 benefits
From $59/employee/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between BambooHR and Square Payroll?
BambooHR is best for small to mid-size us businesses focused on hr. Square Payroll is best for small businesses and restaurants already using square pos wanting a simple integrated payroll solution.
Which is better, BambooHR or Square Payroll?
Choose BambooHR if small to mid-size us businesses focused on hr. Choose Square Payroll if small businesses and restaurants already using square pos wanting a simple integrated payroll solution.
How much does BambooHR cost?
BambooHR starts at $6/employee/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Square Payroll cost?
Visit Square Payroll website for current pricing.
Who should use BambooHR?
Small to mid-size US businesses focused on HR
Who should use Square Payroll?
Small businesses and restaurants already using Square POS wanting a simple integrated payroll solution