Patriot Payroll vs Salesforce
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.
Salesforce
Salesforce is the world's leading CRM platform used by over 150,000 businesses of all sizes. It offers a highly customizable suite of sales, service, marketing, and analytics tools. Salesforce is the gold standard for enterprise CRM but has solutions for businesses of all sizes through its Starter and Pro plans.
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
- ✓Most powerful and customizable CRM on the market
- ✓Massive ecosystem with 3,000+ AppExchange integrations
- ✓Industry-leading reporting and analytics
- ✓Strong community and support resources
Cons
- ✗Expensive and complex for small teams
- ✗Long implementation timelines for enterprise deployments
- ✗Requires dedicated admin resources to get the most out of it
Patriot Payroll vs Salesforce: Side by Side
| Factor | Patriot Payroll | Salesforce |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | CRM Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $17/mo + $4/person | Custom pricing |
| Best For | Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution | Mid to large enterprises needing a highly customizable CRM |
| 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
Salesforce Features
- ✓Contact and lead management
- ✓opportunity tracking
- ✓workflow automation
- ✓AI insights
- ✓reporting and dashboards
- ✓AppExchange integrations
- ✓mobile app
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Choose Salesforce if mid to large enterprises needing a highly customizable crm.
Best For
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Best For
Mid to large enterprises needing a highly customizable CRM
Also Consider
If neither Patriot Payroll nor Salesforce 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 Salesforce?
Patriot Payroll is best for very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Salesforce is best for mid to large enterprises needing a highly customizable crm.
Which is better, Patriot Payroll or Salesforce?
Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Choose Salesforce if mid to large enterprises needing a highly customizable crm.
How much does Patriot Payroll cost?
Patriot Payroll starts at $17/mo + $4/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Salesforce cost?
Salesforce starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Patriot Payroll?
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Who should use Salesforce?
Mid to large enterprises needing a highly customizable CRM