Rippling Payroll vs Workday
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Rippling Payroll
Rippling Payroll is the payroll module within the Rippling platform, which combines HR, IT, and finance management in one system. It offers global payroll capabilities, automatic tax filing, and deep integrations with the rest of the Rippling suite. Rippling Payroll is ideal for companies that want payroll tightly connected to their broader HR and IT operations.
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
- ✓Deeply integrated with HR, IT, and finance in one platform
- ✓Global payroll available in 50+ countries
- ✓Automatic compliance updates for changing tax laws
- ✓Extremely powerful automation capabilities across all modules
Cons
- ✗Pricing requires a custom quote and can be expensive for small teams
- ✗Requires buying into the full Rippling platform for best value
- ✗Can be complex to set up without dedicated HR resources
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
Rippling Payroll vs Workday: Side by Side
| Factor | Rippling Payroll | Workday |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Custom pricing | $34/user/mo |
| Best For | Mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with HR and IT management | Large enterprises with 500+ employees |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Rippling Payroll Features
- ✓Global payroll
- ✓automatic tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓contractor payments
- ✓PEO services
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓time tracking
- ✓expense management
Workday Features
- ✓HR
- ✓payroll
- ✓finance
- ✓planning
- ✓analytics
- ✓learning management
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Rippling Payroll if mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with hr and it management. Choose Workday if large enterprises with 500+ employees.
Best For
Mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with HR and IT management
Best For
Large enterprises with 500+ employees
Also Consider
If neither Rippling Payroll nor Workday 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 Rippling Payroll and Workday?
Rippling Payroll is best for mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with hr and it management. Workday is best for large enterprises with 500+ employees.
Which is better, Rippling Payroll or Workday?
Choose Rippling Payroll if mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with hr and it management. Choose Workday if large enterprises with 500+ employees.
How much does Rippling Payroll cost?
Rippling Payroll starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Workday cost?
Workday starts at $34/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Rippling Payroll?
Mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with HR and IT management
Who should use Workday?
Large enterprises with 500+ employees