Wave Payroll vs HiBob
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.
HiBob
HiBob is a modern HRIS designed for mid-market companies that want to build strong company culture alongside HR operations. It offers employee records, onboarding, performance management, and compensation tools with a modern interface. HiBob is popular among tech-forward companies with 50-500 employees.
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
- ✓Modern, intuitive UI that employees actually enjoy using
- ✓Strong culture and engagement tools including clubs and shoutouts
- ✓Excellent compensation management and benchmarking
- ✓Robust integrations with popular tools like Slack and Greenhouse
Cons
- ✗No built-in payroll — requires integration with a payroll provider
- ✗Pricing is not transparent and requires a sales call
- ✗Implementation can take longer than simpler HRIS tools
Wave Payroll vs HiBob: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | HiBob |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $20/mo + $6/person | $16/employee/mo |
| Best For | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll | Mid-market companies with 50-500 employees |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
HiBob Features
- ✓Employee records
- ✓onboarding
- ✓performance
- ✓compensation
- ✓analytics
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose HiBob if mid-market companies with 50-500 employees.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Mid-market companies with 50-500 employees
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor HiBob 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 HiBob?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. HiBob is best for mid-market companies with 50-500 employees.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or HiBob?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose HiBob if mid-market companies with 50-500 employees.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does HiBob cost?
HiBob starts at $16/employee/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use HiBob?
Mid-market companies with 50-500 employees