Wave Payroll vs Dover
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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.
Dover
Dover is a modern recruiting platform that combines ATS functionality with sourcing automation. It helps lean recruiting teams move fast by automating candidate outreach and interview scheduling.
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
Pros
- ✓Strong sourcing automation
- ✓Built-in outreach sequences
- ✓Fast setup and onboarding
- ✓Good for lean recruiting teams
- ✓Transparent pricing
Cons
- ✗Smaller integration ecosystem
- ✗Less suitable for high-volume enterprise hiring
- ✗Reporting is basic
- ✗Newer platform with less track record
Wave Payroll vs Dover: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | Dover |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Applicant Tracking |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Starting Price | $20/mo + $6/person | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll | Startups and lean teams wanting to automate sourcing and outreach alongside basic ATS features |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Dover Features
- ✓AI candidate sourcing
- ✓job posting automation
- ✓applicant tracking
- ✓outreach automation
- ✓pipeline management
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Dover if startups and lean teams wanting to automate sourcing and outreach alongside basic ats features.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Startups and lean teams wanting to automate sourcing and outreach alongside basic ATS features
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor Dover 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 Wave Payroll and Dover?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Dover is best for startups and lean teams wanting to automate sourcing and outreach alongside basic ats features.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or Dover?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Dover if startups and lean teams wanting to automate sourcing and outreach alongside basic ats features.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Dover cost?
Visit Dover website for current pricing.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use Dover?
Startups and lean teams wanting to automate sourcing and outreach alongside basic ATS features