Paymo vs Patriot Payroll
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Paymo
Paymo is a project management and time tracking tool built for freelancers and small agencies. It combines task management, time tracking, invoicing, and resource scheduling in one platform.
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.
Pros
- ✓Built-in time tracking and invoicing
- ✓Good resource scheduling
- ✓Ideal for client-facing work
- ✓Affordable pricing
- ✓Clean interface
Cons
- ✗Not suited for large enterprise teams
- ✗Limited automation
- ✗Smaller integration ecosystem
- ✗Reporting less robust than competitors
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
Paymo vs Patriot Payroll: Side by Side
| Factor | Paymo | Patriot Payroll |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Project Management | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | $17/mo + $4/person |
| Best For | Freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing | Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Paymo Features
- ✓Project management
- ✓time tracking
- ✓invoicing
- ✓expense tracking
- ✓team collaboration
- ✓client portal
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
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Paymo if freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing. Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution.
Best For
Freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing
Best For
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Also Consider
If neither Paymo nor Patriot Payroll is the right fit, Wrike is worth evaluating.
Wrike
Marketing and creative teams needing enterprise project management with approvals and proofing
From Free
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Paymo and Patriot Payroll?
Paymo is best for freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing. Patriot Payroll is best for very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution.
Which is better, Paymo or Patriot Payroll?
Choose Paymo if freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing. Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution.
How much does Paymo cost?
Visit Paymo website for current pricing.
How much does Patriot Payroll cost?
Patriot Payroll starts at $17/mo + $4/person. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Paymo?
Freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing
Who should use Patriot Payroll?
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution