Patriot Payroll vs Insightly
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Patriot Payroll
Patriot Payroll is one of the most affordable full-service payroll solutions for small businesses. It offers basic payroll and full-service payroll tiers, with the full-service option handling all federal, state, and local tax filings. Patriot is popular with very small businesses and solo operators who want simple, reliable payroll without complex features.
Insightly
Insightly is a CRM and project management platform designed for growing businesses. It uniquely combines sales pipeline management with post-sale project delivery so teams can manage the full customer lifecycle in one place. Insightly is popular with professional services firms and companies that need to track complex projects alongside their sales pipeline.
Pros
- ✓One of the most affordable payroll solutions available
- ✓Simple and easy to use with minimal learning curve
- ✓US-based customer support available by phone
- ✓Free trial available before committing
Cons
- ✗Limited features compared to full HR platforms
- ✗No mobile app for running payroll
- ✗Benefits administration not included
- ✗Less suitable for businesses with complex payroll needs
Pros
- ✓Unique combination of CRM and project management in one tool
- ✓Good free plan for up to 2 users
- ✓Strong workflow automation on paid plans
- ✓Good fit for professional services businesses
Cons
- ✗Interface feels dated compared to modern CRM tools
- ✗Customer support can be slow on lower tiers
- ✗Mobile app is less polished than competitors
Patriot Payroll vs Insightly: Side by Side
| Factor | Patriot Payroll | Insightly |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | CRM Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Starting Price | $17/mo + $4/person | Free |
| Best For | Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution | Growing businesses that need CRM and project management in one platform |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Patriot Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing options
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee self-service portal
- ✓time and attendance add-on
- ✓HR software add-on
- ✓contractor payments
Insightly Features
- ✓Contact and lead management
- ✓pipeline management
- ✓project management
- ✓workflow automation
- ✓email marketing
- ✓reporting
- ✓integrations
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Choose Insightly if growing businesses that need crm and project management in one platform.
Best For
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Best For
Growing businesses that need CRM and project management in one platform
Also Consider
If neither Patriot Payroll nor Insightly 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 Patriot Payroll and Insightly?
Patriot Payroll is best for very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Insightly is best for growing businesses that need crm and project management in one platform.
Which is better, Patriot Payroll or Insightly?
Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Choose Insightly if growing businesses that need crm and project management in one platform.
How much does Patriot Payroll cost?
Patriot Payroll starts at $17/mo + $4/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Insightly cost?
Insightly starts at Free. Pricing model: Freemium.
Who should use Patriot Payroll?
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Who should use Insightly?
Growing businesses that need CRM and project management in one platform