Wave Payroll vs Todoist
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.
Todoist
Todoist is a clean and intuitive task management app trusted by millions of individuals and teams. It focuses on simplicity and getting things done with natural language input and smart scheduling.
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
- ✓Extremely easy to use
- ✓Natural language task input
- ✓Cross-platform availability
- ✓Good collaboration for small teams
- ✓Generous free plan
Cons
- ✗Not suited for complex project management
- ✗Limited reporting and analytics
- ✗Gantt and timeline views absent
- ✗Better for individuals than large teams
Wave Payroll vs Todoist: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | Todoist |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Project Management |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Starting Price | $20/mo + $6/person | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll | Individuals and small teams wanting a simple, clean task manager without the complexity of full project tools |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Todoist Features
- ✓Task management
- ✓project organization
- ✓due dates
- ✓priority levels
- ✓labels
- ✓integrations
- ✓mobile app
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Todoist if individuals and small teams wanting a simple, clean task manager without the complexity of full project tools.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Individuals and small teams wanting a simple, clean task manager without the complexity of full project tools
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor Todoist 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 Todoist?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Todoist is best for individuals and small teams wanting a simple, clean task manager without the complexity of full project tools.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or Todoist?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Todoist if individuals and small teams wanting a simple, clean task manager without the complexity of full project tools.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Todoist cost?
Visit Todoist website for current pricing.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use Todoist?
Individuals and small teams wanting a simple, clean task manager without the complexity of full project tools