Paychex vs 15Five
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Paychex
Paychex is a comprehensive payroll and HR services provider with decades of experience serving businesses of all sizes. It offers payroll processing, tax compliance, benefits administration, and HR support through both software and managed services. Paychex is a reliable choice for businesses that want a proven, full-service payroll partner.
15Five
15Five is a continuous performance management platform focused on weekly check-ins, OKRs, and employee engagement. It helps managers stay connected with their teams through structured feedback and recognition tools. 15Five is popular with remote and distributed teams that need async communication tools.
Pros
- ✓Highly reliable payroll processing with strong compliance track record
- ✓Scalable from small businesses to large enterprises
- ✓Dedicated HR advisors available for guidance
- ✓Strong time and attendance integrations
Cons
- ✗Interface feels dated compared to modern HR tools
- ✗Customer support can be slow to resolve complex issues
- ✗Pricing can be opaque with various add-on fees
Pros
- ✓Simple and intuitive weekly check-in format that drives adoption
- ✓Strong OKR and goal-setting tools
- ✓Excellent manager training and coaching resources
- ✓Good engagement survey tools with benchmarking
Cons
- ✗Limited HR functionality beyond performance and engagement
- ✗No payroll or benefits administration
- ✗Reporting could be more advanced for data-driven HR teams
Paychex vs 15Five: Side by Side
| Factor | Paychex | 15Five |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $39/mo + $5/employee | $4/user/mo |
| Best For | Small to large businesses needing reliable payroll | Companies focused on employee engagement and performance |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Paychex Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓benefits
- ✓HR administration
- ✓time tracking
15Five Features
- ✓Weekly check-ins
- ✓OKRs
- ✓performance reviews
- ✓engagement surveys
- ✓manager training
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Paychex if small to large businesses needing reliable payroll. Choose 15Five if companies focused on employee engagement and performance.
Best For
Small to large businesses needing reliable payroll
Best For
Companies focused on employee engagement and performance
Also Consider
If neither Paychex nor 15Five 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 Paychex and 15Five?
Paychex is best for small to large businesses needing reliable payroll. 15Five is best for companies focused on employee engagement and performance.
Which is better, Paychex or 15Five?
Choose Paychex if small to large businesses needing reliable payroll. Choose 15Five if companies focused on employee engagement and performance.
How much does Paychex cost?
Paychex starts at $39/mo + $5/employee. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does 15Five cost?
15Five starts at $4/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Paychex?
Small to large businesses needing reliable payroll
Who should use 15Five?
Companies focused on employee engagement and performance