Patriot Payroll vs Pilot
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.
Pilot
Pilot is a managed accounting service that combines software with a dedicated team of bookkeepers to handle your books each month. Built for startups and small businesses that want accounting done for them.
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
- ✓Fully managed bookkeeping service
- ✓Dedicated finance experts included
- ✓Built specifically for startups
- ✓Integrates with common startup tools
- ✓Good for venture-backed companies
Cons
- ✗More expensive than DIY software
- ✗Less control over day-to-day bookkeeping
- ✗Not suited for businesses wanting to manage their own books
- ✗US-focused
Patriot Payroll vs Pilot: Side by Side
| Factor | Patriot Payroll | Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Accounting Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $17/mo + $4/person | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution | Startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than DIY software |
| 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
Pilot Features
- ✓Bookkeeping
- ✓tax preparation
- ✓financial reporting
- ✓dedicated bookkeeper
- ✓cash flow management
- ✓integrations
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Choose Pilot if startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than diy software.
Best For
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Best For
Startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than DIY software
Also Consider
If neither Patriot Payroll nor Pilot 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 Pilot?
Patriot Payroll is best for very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Pilot is best for startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than diy software.
Which is better, Patriot Payroll or Pilot?
Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Choose Pilot if startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than diy software.
How much does Patriot Payroll cost?
Patriot Payroll starts at $17/mo + $4/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Pilot cost?
Visit Pilot website for current pricing.
Who should use Patriot Payroll?
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Who should use Pilot?
Startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than DIY software