Lever vs Wave Payroll
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Lever
Lever is a modern talent acquisition suite combining ATS and CRM in one platform. Known for its clean interface and strong collaboration features, it helps recruiting teams build talent pipelines proactively.
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
- ✓Clean and intuitive interface
- ✓Strong CRM and nurturing features
- ✓Good collaboration tools for hiring managers
- ✓Solid analytics
- ✓Easy to get started
Cons
- ✗More expensive than basic ATS tools
- ✗Some advanced features require higher tiers
- ✗Limited onboarding features
- ✗Reporting could be deeper
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
Lever vs Wave Payroll: Side by Side
| Factor | Lever | 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-sized companies wanting a combined ATS and CRM with a clean interface and strong collaboration | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Lever Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓AI candidate scoring
- ✓job board posting
- ✓interview scheduling
- ✓team collaboration
- ✓analytics
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 Lever if mid-sized companies wanting a combined ats and crm with a clean interface and strong collaboration. Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
Best For
Mid-sized companies wanting a combined ATS and CRM with a clean interface and strong collaboration
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Also Consider
If neither Lever 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 Lever and Wave Payroll?
Lever is best for mid-sized companies wanting a combined ats and crm with a clean interface and strong collaboration. Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
Which is better, Lever or Wave Payroll?
Choose Lever if mid-sized companies wanting a combined ats and crm with a clean interface and strong collaboration. Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
How much does Lever cost?
Visit Lever website for current pricing.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Lever?
Mid-sized companies wanting a combined ATS and CRM with a clean interface and strong collaboration
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll