Square Payroll vs Workable
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Square Payroll
Square Payroll is a simple and affordable payroll solution built for small businesses, especially those already using Square for payments. It handles full-service payroll, tax filings, and tip management automatically.
Workable
Workable is an all-in-one recruiting software platform designed for small and mid-size businesses. It includes job posting, candidate sourcing with AI, interview scheduling, and offer management. Workable is known for its ease of use and quick setup, making it a popular first ATS for growing companies.
Pros
- ✓Very easy to use
- ✓Affordable flat pricing
- ✓Seamless Square POS integration
- ✓Handles tips and hourly workers well
- ✓Full-service tax filing included
Cons
- ✗Limited features for complex payroll needs
- ✗Not suited for larger businesses
- ✗HR features are basic
- ✗Best value only for Square ecosystem users
Pros
- ✓Easy to set up and use with minimal training required
- ✓AI-powered candidate sourcing from 400+ job boards
- ✓Good mobile app for on-the-go hiring
- ✓Affordable pricing compared to enterprise ATS tools
Cons
- ✗Limited customization for complex hiring workflows
- ✗Reporting and analytics are basic
- ✗Not ideal for high-volume enterprise hiring at scale
Square Payroll vs Workable: Side by Side
| Factor | Square Payroll | Workable |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Applicant Tracking |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | $189/mo |
| Best For | Small businesses and restaurants already using Square POS wanting a simple integrated payroll solution | Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Square Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee self-service
- ✓reporting
Workable Features
- ✓Job postings
- ✓candidate sourcing
- ✓interview scheduling
- ✓offer letters
- ✓reporting
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Square Payroll if small businesses and restaurants already using square pos wanting a simple integrated payroll solution. Choose Workable if small to mid-size companies needing simple ats.
Best For
Small businesses and restaurants already using Square POS wanting a simple integrated payroll solution
Best For
Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS
Also Consider
If neither Square Payroll nor Workable 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 Square Payroll and Workable?
Square Payroll is best for small businesses and restaurants already using square pos wanting a simple integrated payroll solution. Workable is best for small to mid-size companies needing simple ats.
Which is better, Square Payroll or Workable?
Choose Square Payroll if small businesses and restaurants already using square pos wanting a simple integrated payroll solution. Choose Workable if small to mid-size companies needing simple ats.
How much does Square Payroll cost?
Visit Square Payroll website for current pricing.
How much does Workable cost?
Workable starts at $189/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Square Payroll?
Small businesses and restaurants already using Square POS wanting a simple integrated payroll solution
Who should use Workable?
Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS