Wave Payroll vs Remote.com
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.
Remote.com
Remote.com is a global HR platform that helps companies hire and manage full-time employees and contractors worldwide. It owns legal entities in all countries it operates in, ensuring true local compliance without third-party intermediaries. Remote is known for strong IP protection and transparent pricing.
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
- ✓Owned legal entities in all supported countries — no third-party EOR providers
- ✓Strong IP protection and invention assignment agreements
- ✓Transparent pricing published on website
- ✓Excellent employee experience with locally compliant benefits
Cons
- ✗Higher cost for EOR compared to some competitors
- ✗HRIS features are basic beyond global employment
- ✗Limited customization for benefits packages in some countries
Wave Payroll vs Remote.com: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | Remote.com |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $20/mo + $6/person | $29/contractor/mo |
| Best For | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll | Companies hiring full-time employees internationally |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Remote.com Features
- ✓EOR services
- ✓global payroll
- ✓contractor management
- ✓benefits
- ✓IP protection
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Remote.com if companies hiring full-time employees internationally.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Companies hiring full-time employees internationally
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor Remote.com 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 Remote.com?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Remote.com is best for companies hiring full-time employees internationally.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or Remote.com?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Remote.com if companies hiring full-time employees internationally.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Remote.com cost?
Remote.com starts at $29/contractor/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use Remote.com?
Companies hiring full-time employees internationally