Patriot Payroll vs Workday
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.
Workday
Workday is an enterprise-grade HCM platform used by large organizations worldwide. It covers HR, payroll, finance, and planning in a deeply integrated suite. Workday is the gold standard for enterprise HR but requires significant implementation resources and budget.
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
- ✓Extremely powerful and configurable for complex enterprise needs
- ✓Best-in-class financial and workforce planning tools
- ✓Strong compliance and audit capabilities
- ✓Extensive global payroll coverage
Cons
- ✗Very expensive with long implementation timelines of 6-12 months
- ✗Overkill and unaffordable for companies under 500 employees
- ✗UI can feel dated and complex for everyday users
Patriot Payroll vs Workday: Side by Side
| Factor | Patriot Payroll | Workday |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $17/mo + $4/person | $34/user/mo |
| Best For | Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution | Large enterprises with 500+ employees |
| 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
Workday Features
- ✓HR
- ✓payroll
- ✓finance
- ✓planning
- ✓analytics
- ✓learning management
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Choose Workday if large enterprises with 500+ employees.
Best For
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Best For
Large enterprises with 500+ employees
Also Consider
If neither Patriot Payroll nor Workday 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 Workday?
Patriot Payroll is best for very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Workday is best for large enterprises with 500+ employees.
Which is better, Patriot Payroll or Workday?
Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Choose Workday if large enterprises with 500+ employees.
How much does Patriot Payroll cost?
Patriot Payroll starts at $17/mo + $4/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Workday cost?
Workday starts at $34/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Patriot Payroll?
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Who should use Workday?
Large enterprises with 500+ employees