4.8$40/moGusto
Best for: all-in-one payroll and HR
Payroll and HR with more features. No free accounting.
Best Wave Payroll Alternatives (2026)
If Wave isn't the right fit—because you need more payroll or HR features, or don't need free accounting—these payroll alternatives offer strong options from Gusto and OnPay to full-service providers.
Read our Wave review for full details on features, pricing, and pros and cons.
Quick answer
Who should switch and which alternative fits best.
Wave pairs free accounting with a payroll add-on. Teams look for alternatives when they need more HR features, benefits, or support. Gusto and OnPay are the best alternatives with full payroll and HR. SurePayroll is another small-business option. ADP and Paychex suit those who want full-service.
Why people look for Wave alternatives
Common reasons teams look for a change.
HR and benefits
Wave focuses on accounting and basic payroll. Teams that need benefits, PTO, or more HR tools often choose Gusto or OnPay.
Support and scale
Wave is self-serve; businesses that want more support may prefer SurePayroll, Gusto, or full-service ADP/Paychex.
Accounting ecosystem
If you don't need Wave's free accounting, standalone payroll options (Gusto, OnPay) may offer more payroll depth.
Top Wave alternatives
Editorially ranked alternatives we recommend.
4.8$40/mo
4.5$40/moOnPay
Best for: value and flat pricing
Flat pricing and straightforward payroll. Good for small teams.
4.2From $49/moSurePayroll
Best for: small business payroll
Small business payroll with straightforward pricing.
4.4CustomADP
Best for: enterprise full-service
Full-service payroll and HR at scale. Custom pricing.
4.3CustomPaychex
Best for: traditional full-service
Full-service payroll and HR with strong support. Custom pricing.
Compare alternatives
Side-by-side at a glance.
| Software | Best for | Starting price | Payroll types | Standout feature | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wave | micro businesses | Payroll add-on | W-2, 1099 | Free accounting + payroll | Read review |
| Gusto | all-in-one payroll and HR | $40/mo | — | Transparent pricing; modern UX | Read review |
| OnPay | value and flat pricing | $40/mo | — | Flat pricing; one plan | Read review |
| SurePayroll | small business payroll | From $49/mo | — | Simple small-business focus | Read review |
| ADP | enterprise full-service | Custom | — | Enterprise depth; dedicated support | Read review |
| Paychex | traditional full-service | Custom | — | Full-service; strong support | Read review |
Detailed look at each alternative
When to choose each alternative.
Gusto
Best for all-in-one payroll and HR
Gusto offers full payroll and HR with benefits and transparent pricing. Best if you've outgrown Wave's scope.
OnPay
Best for value and flat pricing
OnPay delivers flat pricing and straightforward payroll. Good for small teams that want more than Wave without Gusto's tier structure.
SurePayroll
Best for small business payroll
SurePayroll focuses on small business with straightforward pricing. Another step up from Wave.
ADP
Best for enterprise full-service
ADP provides full-service payroll and HR at scale. For teams that want traditional support.
Paychex
Best for traditional full-service
Paychex offers full-service payroll and HR with strong support. Another full-service alternative.
How to choose the right alternative
What to look for when comparing options.
Payroll types (W-2 / 1099)
Most small businesses need both employees and contractors. Choose a platform that handles both with clear tax treatment and contractor self-service. Confirm 1099 support and e-file if you pay subcontractors.
Pricing transparency
Prefer published base-plus-per-person pricing when you can budget upfront. Custom-quote providers (e.g. ADP, Paychex) are fine if you want full-service; compare total cost at your headcount.
Tax automation and support
Full-service payroll should calculate, file, and deposit taxes. Confirm what's included and whether you want self-serve or hands-on support. Some providers charge extra for 1099 e-file.
HR and benefits
If you offer health insurance or 401(k), choose a provider that can run benefits and deductions in sync with payroll. Gusto and OnPay bundle this; ADP and Paychex offer it at scale.
Integrations
Payroll should connect to your accounting software (QuickBooks, Xero) and optionally time tracking. Native integration avoids manual export. Match the tool to your stack.
Related comparisons
Head-to-head comparisons to narrow your choice.
Related resources
More ways to explore.
FAQs
Quick answers.