Workable vs Wave Payroll
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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.
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.
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
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
Workable vs Wave Payroll: Side by Side
| Factor | Workable | Wave Payroll |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Applicant Tracking | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $189/mo | $20/mo + $6/person |
| Best For | Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Workable Features
- ✓Job postings
- ✓candidate sourcing
- ✓interview scheduling
- ✓offer letters
- ✓reporting
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Workable if small to mid-size companies needing simple ats. Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
Best For
Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Also Consider
If neither Workable nor Wave Payroll is the right fit, Manatal is worth evaluating.
Manatal
Recruitment agencies and budget-conscious companies wanting AI-powered ATS at an affordable price
From $15/user/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Workable and Wave Payroll?
Workable is best for small to mid-size companies needing simple ats. Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
Which is better, Workable or Wave Payroll?
Choose Workable if small to mid-size companies needing simple ats. Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
How much does Workable cost?
Workable starts at $189/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Workable?
Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll