Paycom vs Clearbooks
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Paycom
Paycom is a comprehensive HR and payroll platform known for its employee self-service features. Its signature Beti technology lets employees verify their own payroll before processing, reducing errors significantly.
Clearbooks
Clearbooks is a UK-focused cloud accounting software designed for small businesses and sole traders. It covers invoicing, expenses, payroll, and VAT returns in a simple and affordable package.
Pros
- ✓Innovative employee-driven payroll verification
- ✓Strong self-service features
- ✓All-in-one HR and payroll
- ✓Good compliance tools
- ✓Dedicated support model
Cons
- ✗Pricing not transparent
- ✗Can be expensive for small businesses
- ✗Implementation takes time
- ✗Some users report pushy sales process
Pros
- ✓Built specifically for UK accounting and VAT
- ✓Simple and easy to use
- ✓Affordable pricing
- ✓Good invoicing features
- ✓Solid MTD (Making Tax Digital) compliance
Cons
- ✗Limited outside UK market
- ✗Fewer integrations than QuickBooks or Xero
- ✗Less suitable for larger businesses
- ✗Support can be slow
Paycom vs Clearbooks: Side by Side
| Factor | Paycom | Clearbooks |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Accounting Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Mid-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one HR and payroll platform with strong employee self-service | UK small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong VAT and MTD compliance |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Paycom Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓HR management
- ✓talent management
- ✓time tracking
- ✓benefits
- ✓analytics and reporting
Clearbooks Features
- ✓Invoicing
- ✓bank reconciliation
- ✓expense tracking
- ✓VAT returns
- ✓payroll
- ✓financial reporting
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Paycom if mid-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one hr and payroll platform with strong employee self-service. Choose Clearbooks if uk small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong vat and mtd compliance.
Best For
Mid-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one HR and payroll platform with strong employee self-service
Best For
UK small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong VAT and MTD compliance
Also Consider
If neither Paycom nor Clearbooks 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 Paycom and Clearbooks?
Paycom is best for mid-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one hr and payroll platform with strong employee self-service. Clearbooks is best for uk small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong vat and mtd compliance.
Which is better, Paycom or Clearbooks?
Choose Paycom if mid-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one hr and payroll platform with strong employee self-service. Choose Clearbooks if uk small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong vat and mtd compliance.
How much does Paycom cost?
Visit Paycom website for current pricing.
How much does Clearbooks cost?
Visit Clearbooks website for current pricing.
Who should use Paycom?
Mid-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one HR and payroll platform with strong employee self-service
Who should use Clearbooks?
UK small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong VAT and MTD compliance