Patriot Payroll vs Quicken
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.
Quicken
Quicken is a personal finance and small business accounting tool with decades of history. It helps small business owners track income, expenses, invoices, and taxes with a desktop-first approach.
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
- ✓Long track record and trusted brand
- ✓Good for very small businesses and sole traders
- ✓Strong personal finance features
- ✓One-time or annual pricing
- ✓Desktop and mobile access
Cons
- ✗Feels dated compared to cloud-native tools
- ✗Desktop-first approach limits collaboration
- ✗Not suited for growing businesses
- ✗Limited integrations
Patriot Payroll vs Quicken: Side by Side
| Factor | Patriot Payroll | Quicken |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Sole traders and very small business owners wanting a simple trusted tool for basic bookkeeping and personal finance tracking |
| 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
Quicken Features
- ✓Personal finance
- ✓budgeting
- ✓investment tracking
- ✓bill management
- ✓tax planning
- ✓reporting
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Choose Quicken if sole traders and very small business owners wanting a simple trusted tool for basic bookkeeping and personal finance tracking.
Best For
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Best For
Sole traders and very small business owners wanting a simple trusted tool for basic bookkeeping and personal finance tracking
Also Consider
If neither Patriot Payroll nor Quicken 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 Quicken?
Patriot Payroll is best for very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Quicken is best for sole traders and very small business owners wanting a simple trusted tool for basic bookkeeping and personal finance tracking.
Which is better, Patriot Payroll or Quicken?
Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Choose Quicken if sole traders and very small business owners wanting a simple trusted tool for basic bookkeeping and personal finance tracking.
How much does Patriot Payroll cost?
Patriot Payroll starts at $17/mo + $4/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Quicken cost?
Visit Quicken website for current pricing.
Who should use Patriot Payroll?
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Who should use Quicken?
Sole traders and very small business owners wanting a simple trusted tool for basic bookkeeping and personal finance tracking