iCIMS vs Wave Payroll
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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.
Wave Payroll
Wave Payroll is a simple payroll solution built into the Wave accounting ecosystem. It is designed for very small businesses that already use Wave for accounting and want an integrated payroll solution. Wave Payroll handles direct deposit, tax payments, and W-2s, making it a natural choice for businesses already in the Wave ecosystem.
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
- ✓Seamlessly integrates with Wave accounting — no manual data transfer needed
- ✓Very affordable pricing for micro-businesses
- ✓Simple interface with minimal setup required
- ✓Free Wave accounting included with subscription
Cons
- ✗Limited features compared to dedicated payroll platforms
- ✗Tax filing is only automatic in select states — manual filing required in others
- ✗No mobile payroll app
- ✗Not suitable for businesses with complex payroll needs
iCIMS vs Wave Payroll: Side by Side
| Factor | iCIMS | Wave Payroll |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Applicant Tracking | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | $20/mo + $6/person |
| Best For | Mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll |
| Our Pick | — | — |
iCIMS Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓recruiting CRM
- ✓onboarding
- ✓career site builder
- ✓analytics
- ✓compliance management
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose iCIMS if mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform. Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Also Consider
If neither iCIMS nor Wave Payroll 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 Wave Payroll?
iCIMS is best for mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform. Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
Which is better, iCIMS or Wave Payroll?
Choose iCIMS if mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform. Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
How much does iCIMS cost?
Visit iCIMS website for current pricing.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use iCIMS?
Mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll