Wave Payroll vs iCIMS
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.
iCIMS
iCIMS is a leading enterprise recruiting platform offering applicant tracking, candidate relationship management, and onboarding in one system. Known for its scalability and deep configurability.
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
- ✓Highly scalable for large hiring volumes
- ✓Strong CRM and pipeline features
- ✓Good compliance tools
- ✓Robust integration marketplace
- ✓Excellent customer support
Cons
- ✗Interface feels dated compared to newer tools
- ✗Expensive for smaller teams
- ✗Implementation can be lengthy
- ✗Reporting has a learning curve
Wave Payroll vs iCIMS: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | iCIMS |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Applicant Tracking |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $20/mo + $6/person | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll | Mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
iCIMS Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓recruiting CRM
- ✓onboarding
- ✓career site builder
- ✓analytics
- ✓compliance management
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose iCIMS if mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor iCIMS 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 iCIMS?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. iCIMS is best for mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or iCIMS?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose iCIMS if mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does iCIMS cost?
Visit iCIMS website for current pricing.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use iCIMS?
Mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform