Wave Payroll vs ProofHub
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.
ProofHub
ProofHub is an all-in-one project management and team collaboration tool with a flat pricing model. It includes tasks, Gantt charts, time tracking, proofing, and team chat under one fixed price.
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
- ✓Flat pricing regardless of user count
- ✓All-in-one including proofing tools
- ✓No per-user fees
- ✓Good for agencies and creative teams
- ✓Built-in time tracking
Cons
- ✗Interface less modern than competitors
- ✗Limited integration ecosystem
- ✗Flat pricing only worthwhile at larger team sizes
- ✗Reporting is basic
Wave Payroll vs ProofHub: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | ProofHub |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Agencies and creative teams wanting an all-in-one tool with flat pricing and built-in proofing features |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
ProofHub Features
- ✓Project management
- ✓task tracking
- ✓time tracking
- ✓team collaboration
- ✓Gantt charts
- ✓resource management
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose ProofHub if agencies and creative teams wanting an all-in-one tool with flat pricing and built-in proofing features.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Agencies and creative teams wanting an all-in-one tool with flat pricing and built-in proofing features
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor ProofHub 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 ProofHub?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. ProofHub is best for agencies and creative teams wanting an all-in-one tool with flat pricing and built-in proofing features.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or ProofHub?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose ProofHub if agencies and creative teams wanting an all-in-one tool with flat pricing and built-in proofing features.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does ProofHub cost?
Visit ProofHub website for current pricing.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use ProofHub?
Agencies and creative teams wanting an all-in-one tool with flat pricing and built-in proofing features