Wave Payroll vs Paycom
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.
Paycom
Paycom is a comprehensive HR and payroll platform known for its employee self-service features. Its signature Beti technology lets employees verify their own payroll before processing, reducing errors significantly.
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
- ✓Innovative employee-driven payroll verification
- ✓Strong self-service features
- ✓All-in-one HR and payroll
- ✓Good compliance tools
- ✓Dedicated support model
Cons
- ✗Pricing not transparent
- ✗Can be expensive for small businesses
- ✗Implementation takes time
- ✗Some users report pushy sales process
Wave Payroll vs Paycom: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | Paycom |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Payroll Software |
| 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-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one HR and payroll platform with strong employee self-service |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Paycom Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓HR management
- ✓talent management
- ✓time tracking
- ✓benefits
- ✓analytics and reporting
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Paycom if mid-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one hr and payroll platform with strong employee self-service.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Mid-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one HR and payroll platform with strong employee self-service
How Wave Payroll and Paycom Are Similar
- •Both are Payroll Software platforms designed for business teams
- •Both offer web-based access with no software installation required
- •Both provide customer support and onboarding resources
- •Both integrate with popular third-party business tools
- •Both offer a trial or demo to evaluate before purchasing
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor Paycom 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 Paycom?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Paycom is best for mid-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one hr and payroll platform with strong employee self-service.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or Paycom?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Paycom if mid-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one hr and payroll platform with strong employee self-service.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Paycom cost?
Visit Paycom website for current pricing.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use Paycom?
Mid-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one HR and payroll platform with strong employee self-service