Copper vs Square Payroll
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Copper
Copper is a CRM platform built specifically for Google Workspace users. It integrates deeply with Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Drive to automatically capture contacts and activities without manual data entry. Copper is the ideal CRM for teams that live in Google Workspace and want a CRM that works seamlessly within it.
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
- ✓Seamless Google Workspace integration — works directly in Gmail
- ✓Automatic data capture eliminates manual CRM entry
- ✓Clean and intuitive interface
- ✓Good value for Google-first teams
Cons
- ✗Only useful if your team uses Google Workspace
- ✗Limited features outside of Google ecosystem
- ✗Not suitable for enterprise-level CRM needs
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
Copper vs Square Payroll: Side by Side
| Factor | Copper | Square Payroll |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | CRM Software | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $9/user/mo | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Teams that run their business on Google Workspace | Small businesses and restaurants already using Square POS wanting a simple integrated payroll solution |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Copper Features
- ✓Google Workspace integration
- ✓automatic data capture
- ✓contact and lead management
- ✓pipeline management
- ✓email tracking
- ✓reporting
- ✓workflow automation
Square Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee self-service
- ✓reporting
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Copper if teams that run their business on google workspace. Choose Square Payroll if small businesses and restaurants already using square pos wanting a simple integrated payroll solution.
Best For
Teams that run their business on Google Workspace
Best For
Small businesses and restaurants already using Square POS wanting a simple integrated payroll solution
Also Consider
If neither Copper nor Square Payroll is the right fit, Monday.com CRM is worth evaluating.
Monday.com CRM
Teams that want CRM and project management combined in one visual platform
From $12/user/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Copper and Square Payroll?
Copper is best for teams that run their business on google workspace. Square Payroll is best for small businesses and restaurants already using square pos wanting a simple integrated payroll solution.
Which is better, Copper or Square Payroll?
Choose Copper if teams that run their business on google workspace. Choose Square Payroll if small businesses and restaurants already using square pos wanting a simple integrated payroll solution.
How much does Copper cost?
Copper starts at $9/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Square Payroll cost?
Visit Square Payroll website for current pricing.
Who should use Copper?
Teams that run their business on Google Workspace
Who should use Square Payroll?
Small businesses and restaurants already using Square POS wanting a simple integrated payroll solution