Microsoft Project vs Paylocity
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Microsoft Project
Microsoft Project is the long-standing enterprise project management standard offering advanced scheduling, resource management, and portfolio tracking. Deep integration with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.
Paylocity
Paylocity is a modern HR and payroll platform designed for mid-market businesses. It combines payroll processing with employee engagement tools, learning management, and workforce analytics. Paylocity stands out for its strong mobile experience and focus on building connected, engaged workplaces.
Pros
- ✓Industry standard for complex project scheduling
- ✓Powerful Gantt and resource management
- ✓Deep Microsoft 365 integration
- ✓Strong portfolio management
- ✓Trusted by enterprises globally
Cons
- ✗Steep learning curve
- ✗Expensive licensing
- ✗Feels dated compared to modern tools
- ✗Overkill for simple projects
- ✗Limited real-time collaboration
Pros
- ✓Strong employee engagement and communication tools
- ✓Excellent mobile app for both managers and employees
- ✓Modern UI with good user adoption rates
- ✓Robust payroll with strong compliance features
Cons
- ✗Pricing requires a sales call and is not published online
- ✗Implementation can be complex for larger organizations
- ✗Some advanced features require additional modules at extra cost
Microsoft Project vs Paylocity: Side by Side
| Factor | Microsoft Project | Paylocity |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Project Management | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | Custom pricing |
| Best For | Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration | Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Microsoft Project Features
- ✓Project scheduling
- ✓Gantt charts
- ✓resource management
- ✓task tracking
- ✓portfolio management
- ✓reporting
Paylocity Features
- ✓Payroll
- ✓benefits
- ✓talent management
- ✓workforce management
- ✓analytics
- ✓employee self-service
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. Choose Paylocity if mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
Best For
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration
Best For
Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees
Also Consider
If neither Microsoft Project nor Paylocity is the right fit, Wrike is worth evaluating.
Wrike
Marketing and creative teams needing enterprise project management with approvals and proofing
From Free
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Microsoft Project and Paylocity?
Microsoft Project is best for enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. Paylocity is best for mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
Which is better, Microsoft Project or Paylocity?
Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. Choose Paylocity if mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
How much does Microsoft Project cost?
Visit Microsoft Project website for current pricing.
How much does Paylocity cost?
Paylocity starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Microsoft Project?
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration
Who should use Paylocity?
Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees