iCIMS vs SurePayroll
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
SurePayroll is our recommended pick for most teams — small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll.
Try SurePayroll →Read our full SurePayroll review →iCIMS
iCIMS is a leading enterprise recruiting platform offering applicant tracking, candidate relationship management, and onboarding in one system. Known for its scalability and deep configurability.
SurePayroll
SurePayroll is an online payroll service designed specifically for small businesses. It is owned by Paychex and offers full-service payroll processing, automatic tax filing, and employee self-service tools. SurePayroll is known for its simple setup and affordable pricing, making it a top choice for small business owners running payroll for the first time.
Pros
- ✓Highly scalable for large hiring volumes
- ✓Strong CRM and pipeline features
- ✓Good compliance tools
- ✓Robust integration marketplace
- ✓Excellent customer support
Cons
- ✗Interface feels dated compared to newer tools
- ✗Expensive for smaller teams
- ✗Implementation can be lengthy
- ✗Reporting has a learning curve
Pros
- ✓Very easy to set up and use — ideal for first-time payroll users
- ✓Automatic federal, state, and local tax filing included
- ✓Affordable flat-rate pricing for small teams
- ✓Strong mobile app for running payroll on the go
Cons
- ✗Limited features for larger or more complex businesses
- ✗Customer support can be slow during peak periods
- ✗Less customizable than enterprise payroll solutions
iCIMS vs SurePayroll: Side by Side
| Factor | iCIMS | SurePayroll |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | 4.4/5 ★ |
| Category | Applicant Tracking | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | Custom pricing |
| Best For | Mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform | Small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll |
| Our Pick | — | 🏆 Recommended |
iCIMS Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓recruiting CRM
- ✓onboarding
- ✓career site builder
- ✓analytics
- ✓compliance management
SurePayroll Features
- ✓Full-service payroll processing
- ✓automatic tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee self-service portal
- ✓new hire reporting
- ✓workers compensation integration
- ✓mobile app
Pricing Comparison
Best Use Cases
SurePayroll
- →Small US businesses running payroll for a handful of employees
- →Self-employed individuals paying themselves and contractors
- →Companies wanting simple automated payroll at low cost
Who Should NOT Use These Tools
SurePayroll is NOT ideal for:
- ✗Companies with international employees
- ✗Businesses needing full HR management
- ✗Large companies with complex payroll requirements
Integrations
SurePayroll
QuickBooks, Xero, AccountEdge, Sage
Our Take
Choose iCIMS if mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform. Choose SurePayroll if small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll.
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform
Best For
Small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll
Also Consider
If neither iCIMS nor SurePayroll is the right fit, Manatal is worth evaluating.
Manatal
Recruitment agencies and budget-conscious companies wanting AI-powered ATS at an affordable price
From $15/user/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between iCIMS and SurePayroll?
iCIMS is best for mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform. SurePayroll is best for small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll.
Which is better, iCIMS or SurePayroll?
Choose iCIMS if mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform. Choose SurePayroll if small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll.
How much does iCIMS cost?
Visit iCIMS website for current pricing.
How much does SurePayroll cost?
SurePayroll starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use iCIMS?
Mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform
Who should use SurePayroll?
Small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll