Remote.com vs Wave Payroll
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Remote.com
Remote.com is a global HR platform that helps companies hire and manage full-time employees and contractors worldwide. It owns legal entities in all countries it operates in, ensuring true local compliance without third-party intermediaries. Remote is known for strong IP protection and transparent pricing.
Wave Payroll
Wave Payroll is a simple payroll solution built into the Wave accounting ecosystem. It is designed for very small businesses that already use Wave for accounting and want an integrated payroll solution. Wave Payroll handles direct deposit, tax payments, and W-2s, making it a natural choice for businesses already in the Wave ecosystem.
Pros
- ✓Owned legal entities in all supported countries — no third-party EOR providers
- ✓Strong IP protection and invention assignment agreements
- ✓Transparent pricing published on website
- ✓Excellent employee experience with locally compliant benefits
Cons
- ✗Higher cost for EOR compared to some competitors
- ✗HRIS features are basic beyond global employment
- ✗Limited customization for benefits packages in some countries
Pros
- ✓Seamlessly integrates with Wave accounting — no manual data transfer needed
- ✓Very affordable pricing for micro-businesses
- ✓Simple interface with minimal setup required
- ✓Free Wave accounting included with subscription
Cons
- ✗Limited features compared to dedicated payroll platforms
- ✗Tax filing is only automatic in select states — manual filing required in others
- ✗No mobile payroll app
- ✗Not suitable for businesses with complex payroll needs
Remote.com vs Wave Payroll: Side by Side
| Factor | Remote.com | Wave Payroll |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | HR Software | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $29/contractor/mo | $20/mo + $6/person |
| Best For | Companies hiring full-time employees internationally | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Remote.com Features
- ✓EOR services
- ✓global payroll
- ✓contractor management
- ✓benefits
- ✓IP protection
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Remote.com if companies hiring full-time employees internationally. Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
Best For
Companies hiring full-time employees internationally
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Also Consider
If neither Remote.com nor Wave Payroll is the right fit, Justworks is worth evaluating.
Justworks
Small businesses wanting Fortune 500 benefits
From $59/employee/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Remote.com and Wave Payroll?
Remote.com is best for companies hiring full-time employees internationally. Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
Which is better, Remote.com or Wave Payroll?
Choose Remote.com if companies hiring full-time employees internationally. Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
How much does Remote.com cost?
Remote.com starts at $29/contractor/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Remote.com?
Companies hiring full-time employees internationally
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll