Wave Payroll vs SugarCRM
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.
SugarCRM
SugarCRM is an open-source CRM platform that offers highly customizable sales, marketing, and customer service tools for mid-size and enterprise businesses. It gives companies full control over their CRM data and workflows, making it popular with businesses that have specific customization or data sovereignty requirements.
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 to fit complex business processes
- ✓Open-source option gives full data control
- ✓Strong sales and marketing automation
- ✓Good value for mid-market companies
Cons
- ✗Requires technical resources to implement and customize
- ✗Interface is less modern than competitors
- ✗Steeper learning curve than simpler CRM tools
Wave Payroll vs SugarCRM: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | SugarCRM |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | CRM Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $20/mo + $6/person | $19/user/mo |
| Best For | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll | Mid-size businesses needing a highly customizable CRM with full data control |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
SugarCRM Features
- ✓Sales automation
- ✓marketing automation
- ✓customer service management
- ✓reporting and analytics
- ✓workflow automation
- ✓mobile app
- ✓API access
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose SugarCRM if mid-size businesses needing a highly customizable crm with full data control.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Mid-size businesses needing a highly customizable CRM with full data control
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor SugarCRM 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 SugarCRM?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. SugarCRM is best for mid-size businesses needing a highly customizable crm with full data control.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or SugarCRM?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose SugarCRM if mid-size businesses needing a highly customizable crm with full data control.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does SugarCRM cost?
SugarCRM starts at $19/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use SugarCRM?
Mid-size businesses needing a highly customizable CRM with full data control