Wave Payroll vs Height
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.
Height
Height is a modern project management tool designed for product and engineering teams. It combines tasks, chat, and automation in a fast, keyboard-friendly interface with a focus on developer workflows.
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
- ✓Fast and keyboard-friendly interface
- ✓Built-in team chat alongside tasks
- ✓Strong automation
- ✓Good for engineering workflows
- ✓Generous free plan
Cons
- ✗Smaller user base and community
- ✗Fewer integrations than established tools
- ✗Less suited for non-technical teams
- ✗Still maturing as a product
Wave Payroll vs Height: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | Height |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Project Management |
| 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 | Product and engineering teams wanting a fast modern tool that combines tasks and team communication |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Height Features
- ✓Task management
- ✓project tracking
- ✓team collaboration
- ✓custom workflows
- ✓integrations
- ✓timeline view
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Height if product and engineering teams wanting a fast modern tool that combines tasks and team communication.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Product and engineering teams wanting a fast modern tool that combines tasks and team communication
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor Height 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 Height?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Height is best for product and engineering teams wanting a fast modern tool that combines tasks and team communication.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or Height?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Height if product and engineering teams wanting a fast modern tool that combines tasks and team communication.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Height cost?
Visit Height website for current pricing.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use Height?
Product and engineering teams wanting a fast modern tool that combines tasks and team communication