SurePayroll vs Microsoft Project
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: September 14, 2026
SurePayroll is our recommended pick for most teams — small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll.
Try SurePayroll →Read our full SurePayroll review →SurePayroll
SurePayroll is an online payroll service designed specifically for small businesses. It is owned by Paychex and offers full-service payroll processing, automatic tax filing, and employee self-service tools. SurePayroll is known for its simple setup and affordable pricing, making it a top choice for small business owners running payroll for the first time.
Microsoft Project
Microsoft Project is the long-standing enterprise project management standard offering advanced scheduling, resource management, and portfolio tracking. Deep integration with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.
Pros
- ✓Very easy to set up and use — ideal for first-time payroll users
- ✓Automatic federal, state, and local tax filing included
- ✓Affordable flat-rate pricing for small teams
- ✓Strong mobile app for running payroll on the go
Cons
- ✗Limited features for larger or more complex businesses
- ✗Customer support can be slow during peak periods
- ✗Less customizable than enterprise payroll solutions
Pros
- ✓Industry standard for complex project scheduling
- ✓Powerful Gantt and resource management
- ✓Deep Microsoft 365 integration
- ✓Strong portfolio management
- ✓Trusted by enterprises globally
Cons
- ✗Steep learning curve
- ✗Expensive licensing
- ✗Feels dated compared to modern tools
- ✗Overkill for simple projects
- ✗Limited real-time collaboration
SurePayroll vs Microsoft Project: Side by Side
| Factor | SurePayroll | Microsoft Project |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.4/5 ★ | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Project Management |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Custom pricing | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll | Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration |
| Our Pick | 🏆 Recommended | — |
SurePayroll Features
- ✓Full-service payroll processing
- ✓automatic tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee self-service portal
- ✓new hire reporting
- ✓workers compensation integration
- ✓mobile app
Microsoft Project Features
- ✓Project scheduling
- ✓Gantt charts
- ✓resource management
- ✓task tracking
- ✓portfolio management
- ✓reporting
Pricing Comparison
Best Use Cases
SurePayroll
- →Small US businesses running payroll for a handful of employees
- →Self-employed individuals paying themselves and contractors
- →Companies wanting simple automated payroll at low cost
Who Should NOT Use These Tools
SurePayroll is NOT ideal for:
- ✗Companies with international employees
- ✗Businesses needing full HR management
- ✗Large companies with complex payroll requirements
Integrations
SurePayroll
QuickBooks, Xero, AccountEdge, Sage
Our Take
Choose SurePayroll if small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll. Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration.
Best For
Small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll
Best For
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration
Also Consider
If neither SurePayroll nor Microsoft Project 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 SurePayroll and Microsoft Project?
SurePayroll is best for small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll. Microsoft Project is best for enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration.
Which is better, SurePayroll or Microsoft Project?
Choose SurePayroll if small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll. Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration.
How much does SurePayroll cost?
SurePayroll starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Microsoft Project cost?
Visit Microsoft Project website for current pricing.
Who should use SurePayroll?
Small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll
Who should use Microsoft Project?
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration