Wave Payroll vs Workable
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.
Workable
Workable is an all-in-one recruiting software platform designed for small and mid-size businesses. It includes job posting, candidate sourcing with AI, interview scheduling, and offer management. Workable is known for its ease of use and quick setup, making it a popular first ATS for growing companies.
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
- ✓Easy to set up and use with minimal training required
- ✓AI-powered candidate sourcing from 400+ job boards
- ✓Good mobile app for on-the-go hiring
- ✓Affordable pricing compared to enterprise ATS tools
Cons
- ✗Limited customization for complex hiring workflows
- ✗Reporting and analytics are basic
- ✗Not ideal for high-volume enterprise hiring at scale
Wave Payroll vs Workable: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | Workable |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Applicant Tracking |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $20/mo + $6/person | $189/mo |
| Best For | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll | Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Workable Features
- ✓Job postings
- ✓candidate sourcing
- ✓interview scheduling
- ✓offer letters
- ✓reporting
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Workable if small to mid-size companies needing simple ats.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor Workable 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 Workable?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Workable is best for small to mid-size companies needing simple ats.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or Workable?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Workable if small to mid-size companies needing simple ats.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Workable cost?
Workable starts at $189/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use Workable?
Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS