Paycom vs Square Payroll
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.
Square Payroll
Square Payroll is a simple and affordable payroll solution built for small businesses, especially those already using Square for payments. It handles full-service payroll, tax filings, and tip management automatically.
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
- ✓Very easy to use
- ✓Affordable flat pricing
- ✓Seamless Square POS integration
- ✓Handles tips and hourly workers well
- ✓Full-service tax filing included
Cons
- ✗Limited features for complex payroll needs
- ✗Not suited for larger businesses
- ✗HR features are basic
- ✗Best value only for Square ecosystem users
Paycom vs Square Payroll: Side by Side
| Factor | Paycom | Square Payroll |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Payroll 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 | Small businesses and restaurants already using Square POS wanting a simple integrated payroll solution |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Paycom Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓HR management
- ✓talent management
- ✓time tracking
- ✓benefits
- ✓analytics and reporting
Square Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee self-service
- ✓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 Square Payroll if small businesses and restaurants already using square pos wanting a simple integrated payroll solution.
Best For
Mid-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one HR and payroll platform with strong employee self-service
Best For
Small businesses and restaurants already using Square POS wanting a simple integrated payroll solution
How Paycom and Square Payroll Are Similar
- •Both are Payroll Software platforms designed for business teams
- •Both offer web-based access with no software installation required
- •Both provide customer support and onboarding resources
- •Both integrate with popular third-party business tools
- •Both offer a trial or demo to evaluate before purchasing
Also Consider
If neither Paycom nor Square Payroll 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 Square Payroll?
Paycom is best for mid-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one hr and payroll platform with strong employee self-service. Square Payroll is best for small businesses and restaurants already using square pos wanting a simple integrated payroll solution.
Which is better, Paycom or Square Payroll?
Choose Paycom if mid-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one hr and payroll platform with strong employee self-service. Choose Square Payroll if small businesses and restaurants already using square pos wanting a simple integrated payroll solution.
How much does Paycom cost?
Visit Paycom website for current pricing.
How much does Square Payroll cost?
Visit Square Payroll 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 Square Payroll?
Small businesses and restaurants already using Square POS wanting a simple integrated payroll solution