Pilot vs Paylocity
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Pilot
Pilot is a managed accounting service that combines software with a dedicated team of bookkeepers to handle your books each month. Built for startups and small businesses that want accounting done for them.
Paylocity
Paylocity is a modern HR and payroll platform designed for mid-market businesses. It combines payroll processing with employee engagement tools, learning management, and workforce analytics. Paylocity stands out for its strong mobile experience and focus on building connected, engaged workplaces.
Pros
- ✓Fully managed bookkeeping service
- ✓Dedicated finance experts included
- ✓Built specifically for startups
- ✓Integrates with common startup tools
- ✓Good for venture-backed companies
Cons
- ✗More expensive than DIY software
- ✗Less control over day-to-day bookkeeping
- ✗Not suited for businesses wanting to manage their own books
- ✗US-focused
Pros
- ✓Strong employee engagement and communication tools
- ✓Excellent mobile app for both managers and employees
- ✓Modern UI with good user adoption rates
- ✓Robust payroll with strong compliance features
Cons
- ✗Pricing requires a sales call and is not published online
- ✗Implementation can be complex for larger organizations
- ✗Some advanced features require additional modules at extra cost
Pilot vs Paylocity: Side by Side
| Factor | Pilot | Paylocity |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Accounting Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | Custom pricing |
| Best For | Startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than DIY software | Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Pilot Features
- ✓Bookkeeping
- ✓tax preparation
- ✓financial reporting
- ✓dedicated bookkeeper
- ✓cash flow management
- ✓integrations
Paylocity Features
- ✓Payroll
- ✓benefits
- ✓talent management
- ✓workforce management
- ✓analytics
- ✓employee self-service
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Pilot if startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than diy software. Choose Paylocity if mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
Best For
Startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than DIY software
Best For
Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees
Also Consider
If neither Pilot nor Paylocity is the right fit, Dext is worth evaluating.
Dext
Bookkeepers, accountants, and businesses with high receipt volumes wanting to eliminate manual data entry
From $15/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Pilot and Paylocity?
Pilot is best for startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than diy software. Paylocity is best for mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
Which is better, Pilot or Paylocity?
Choose Pilot if startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than diy software. Choose Paylocity if mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
How much does Pilot cost?
Visit Pilot website for current pricing.
How much does Paylocity cost?
Paylocity starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Pilot?
Startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than DIY software
Who should use Paylocity?
Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees