OnPay vs Workable
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
OnPay
OnPay is a full-service payroll and HR platform designed for small and mid-size businesses. It offers unlimited payroll runs, automatic tax filing, and built-in HR tools at an affordable flat rate. OnPay is consistently rated as one of the best value payroll solutions for small businesses and supports a wide range of industries including restaurants, farms, and nonprofits.
Workable
Workable is an all-in-one recruiting software platform designed for small and mid-size businesses. It includes job posting, candidate sourcing with AI, interview scheduling, and offer management. Workable is known for its ease of use and quick setup, making it a popular first ATS for growing companies.
Pros
- ✓Excellent value — flat monthly pricing with no per-run fees
- ✓Supports multiple pay schedules and unlimited payroll runs
- ✓Strong industry-specific features for restaurants, farms, and nonprofits
- ✓US-based customer support included on all plans
Cons
- ✗US-only — no international payroll support
- ✗Mobile app is less polished than competitors
- ✗Limited advanced HR features compared to full HRIS platforms
Pros
- ✓Easy to set up and use with minimal training required
- ✓AI-powered candidate sourcing from 400+ job boards
- ✓Good mobile app for on-the-go hiring
- ✓Affordable pricing compared to enterprise ATS tools
Cons
- ✗Limited customization for complex hiring workflows
- ✗Reporting and analytics are basic
- ✗Not ideal for high-volume enterprise hiring at scale
OnPay vs Workable: Side by Side
| Factor | OnPay | Workable |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Applicant Tracking |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $40/mo + $6/person | $189/mo |
| Best For | Small businesses wanting affordable, full-service payroll with no hidden fees | Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS |
| Our Pick | — | — |
OnPay Features
- ✓Unlimited payroll runs
- ✓automatic tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee self-service
- ✓HR tools
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓PTO management
- ✓integrations
Workable Features
- ✓Job postings
- ✓candidate sourcing
- ✓interview scheduling
- ✓offer letters
- ✓reporting
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose OnPay if small businesses wanting affordable, full-service payroll with no hidden fees. Choose Workable if small to mid-size companies needing simple ats.
Best For
Small businesses wanting affordable, full-service payroll with no hidden fees
Best For
Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS
Also Consider
If neither OnPay nor Workable is the right fit, Multiplier is worth evaluating.
Multiplier
Startups and SMBs hiring internationally on a budget
From $40/contractor/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between OnPay and Workable?
OnPay is best for small businesses wanting affordable, full-service payroll with no hidden fees. Workable is best for small to mid-size companies needing simple ats.
Which is better, OnPay or Workable?
Choose OnPay if small businesses wanting affordable, full-service payroll with no hidden fees. Choose Workable if small to mid-size companies needing simple ats.
How much does OnPay cost?
OnPay starts at $40/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Workable cost?
Workable starts at $189/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use OnPay?
Small businesses wanting affordable, full-service payroll with no hidden fees
Who should use Workable?
Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS