Pilot vs Workday
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.
Workday
Workday is an enterprise-grade HCM platform used by large organizations worldwide. It covers HR, payroll, finance, and planning in a deeply integrated suite. Workday is the gold standard for enterprise HR but requires significant implementation resources and budget.
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
- ✓Extremely powerful and configurable for complex enterprise needs
- ✓Best-in-class financial and workforce planning tools
- ✓Strong compliance and audit capabilities
- ✓Extensive global payroll coverage
Cons
- ✗Very expensive with long implementation timelines of 6-12 months
- ✗Overkill and unaffordable for companies under 500 employees
- ✗UI can feel dated and complex for everyday users
Pilot vs Workday: Side by Side
| Factor | Pilot | Workday |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Accounting Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | $34/user/mo |
| Best For | Startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than DIY software | Large enterprises with 500+ employees |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Pilot Features
- ✓Bookkeeping
- ✓tax preparation
- ✓financial reporting
- ✓dedicated bookkeeper
- ✓cash flow management
- ✓integrations
Workday Features
- ✓HR
- ✓payroll
- ✓finance
- ✓planning
- ✓analytics
- ✓learning management
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Pilot if startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than diy software. Choose Workday if large enterprises with 500+ employees.
Best For
Startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than DIY software
Best For
Large enterprises with 500+ employees
Also Consider
If neither Pilot nor Workday 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 Workday?
Pilot is best for startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than diy software. Workday is best for large enterprises with 500+ employees.
Which is better, Pilot or Workday?
Choose Pilot if startups and small businesses wanting fully managed bookkeeping with a dedicated team rather than diy software. Choose Workday if large enterprises with 500+ employees.
How much does Pilot cost?
Visit Pilot website for current pricing.
How much does Workday cost?
Workday starts at $34/user/mo. 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 Workday?
Large enterprises with 500+ employees