Wave Payroll vs Leapsome
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.
Leapsome
Leapsome is an intelligent people enablement platform that combines performance management, learning, and employee engagement in one system. It helps HR teams run effective performance reviews, deliver personalized learning paths, and measure engagement with powerful analytics. Leapsome is used by companies like Spotify and Eventbrite.
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 customizable performance review and feedback cycles
- ✓Strong learning management system with personalized development paths
- ✓Powerful engagement surveys with advanced analytics
- ✓Integrates well with HRIS tools like BambooHR and Workday
Cons
- ✗Expensive for smaller companies, especially with multiple modules
- ✗Complex initial setup and configuration
- ✗No payroll or core HRIS functionality
Wave Payroll vs Leapsome: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | Leapsome |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $20/mo + $6/person | Custom pricing |
| Best For | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll | Mid to large companies investing in people development |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Leapsome Features
- ✓Performance reviews
- ✓OKRs
- ✓learning management
- ✓engagement surveys
- ✓compensation
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Leapsome if mid to large companies investing in people development.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Mid to large companies investing in people development
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor Leapsome 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 Leapsome?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Leapsome is best for mid to large companies investing in people development.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or Leapsome?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Leapsome if mid to large companies investing in people development.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Leapsome cost?
Leapsome starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use Leapsome?
Mid to large companies investing in people development