Wave Payroll vs Microsoft Project
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.
Microsoft Project
Microsoft Project is the long-standing enterprise project management standard offering advanced scheduling, resource management, and portfolio tracking. Deep integration with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.
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
- ✓Industry standard for complex project scheduling
- ✓Powerful Gantt and resource management
- ✓Deep Microsoft 365 integration
- ✓Strong portfolio management
- ✓Trusted by enterprises globally
Cons
- ✗Steep learning curve
- ✗Expensive licensing
- ✗Feels dated compared to modern tools
- ✗Overkill for simple projects
- ✗Limited real-time collaboration
Wave Payroll vs Microsoft Project: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | Microsoft Project |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Project Management |
| 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 | Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Microsoft Project Features
- ✓Project scheduling
- ✓Gantt charts
- ✓resource management
- ✓task tracking
- ✓portfolio management
- ✓reporting
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor Microsoft Project 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 Microsoft Project?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Microsoft Project is best for enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or Microsoft Project?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Microsoft Project cost?
Visit Microsoft Project website for current pricing.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use Microsoft Project?
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration