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8.7

SpotScore

WavePayroll - Payroll Software

Top 10 WavePayroll Alternatives 2026

Effortless payroll and invoicing at your fingertips.

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User Ratings

Trusted by 2M+ software buyers annually.

Main Features

  • Benefits Management
  • Check Printing
  • Direct Deposit
  • Multi-country
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WavePayroll is a Payroll Software platform with a user rating of 4.0★ based on 19 reviews. Teams looking for alternatives typically need better pricing flexibility, easier deployment, or a closer feature fit for their specific use case. Below you'll find 10 vetted Payroll Software alternatives ranked by user rating, with filters to narrow by pricing, platform, and features — so you can find the right fit for 2026.

WavePayroll vs Top Alternatives at a Glance

Side-by-side comparison of pricing, user rating, and free trial availability to help you decide faster.

ToolBest ForPricingRatingFree Option
WavePayroll CurrentPayroll SoftwareFree plan available4.0 ★✓ Yes
EPAY HCMPayroll SoftwareCustom pricing4.7 ★✗ No
APS PayrollPayroll SoftwareCustom pricing4.7 ★✗ No
PilotPayroll Software$294.8 ★✗ No
OnPayPayroll Software$405.0 ★✓ Yes
FingercheckPayroll Software$234.6 ★✓ Yes

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WavePayroll rating: 4.0 ★10 alternatives found

Showing 1-10 out of 10

Top rated

List of the Top WavePayroll alternatives as of October 2026

Compare business software, products, and services to find the best solution for your business or organization. Use the filters on the left to drill down by category, pricing, features, market segment, user ratings, and more.

8.5

SpotScore

EPAY HCM - Payroll Software

EPAY HCM — 4.72★

Streamline your payroll with EPAY - anytime, anywhere.

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Add to compare

✦ Editor’s Pick⭐ Higher rated than WavePayroll

What is EPAY HCM?

EPAY Handheld payroll software is the easiest way to view, manage and produce paychecks on the go. EPAY was developed with you in mind by people who believe convenience is number one. Every feature of EPAY payroll has been developed with a purpose to help you be more efficient, save time, ...

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What reviewers like about EPAY HCM

  • Exceptional customer support, available 24/7, ensuring quick and effective troubleshooting.
  • User-friendly interface with simple navigation, both on the mobile app and website.
  • Efficient time tracking features allowing easy access, editing, and management of employee attendance and payroll.

Where EPAY HCM falls short

  • Occasional complexity with certain features, like adding mass PTO with different hour allocations for part-time vs. full-time employees, creating additional work.
  • Fingerprint mismatches causing errors in payroll, especially with certain employees, despite re-registering fingerprints.
  • Issues with login reliability, such as cases where users struggle to access accounts due to password or keyboard settings.

Common Features

  • Self Service Portal

  • Multi-country

  • Direct Deposit

+ 3 more

Unique Features

  • Wage Garnishment

  • 401(k) Tracking

Pricing

EPAY HCM offers custom pricing plan

8.7

SpotScore

APS Payroll - Payroll Software

APS Payroll — 4.69★

Efficient payroll management, with precision and security.

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⭐ Higher rated than WavePayroll

What is APS Payroll?

APS Payroll is a payroll and HR management platform for mid-sized businesses that need customizable reporting, employee self-service, and third-party integrations alongside core payroll processing. Its report builder lets HR teams generate custom outputs for workforce cost analysis without ...

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What reviewers like about APS Payroll

  • Integration with Sage Intacct simplifies operations and reduces manual work.
  • Extremely user-friendly, with clear features for both admins and employees.
  • Excellent customer service with responsive, knowledgeable, and dedicated support teams.

Where APS Payroll falls short

  • Implementation can be disorganized with some inconsistencies and delays in setup or onboarding.
  • Customization is limited in certain features like deduction fields, reporting, and benefits management.
  • Reporting features can be challenging for new users until they gain familiarity with the system.

Common Features

  • W-2 Preparation

  • Self Service Portal

  • Multi-country

+ 4 more

Unique Features

  • Wage Garnishment

  • Leave Tracking (Vacation)

  • Deductions Management

+ 2 more

Pricing

APS Payroll offers custom pricing plan

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7.9

SpotScore

Pilot - Payroll Software

Pilot — from $29 · 4.77★

Streamline your business with expert payroll management.

See Plans & Pricing

4.8

(24)

Add to compare

⭐ Higher rated than WavePayroll

What is Pilot?

Pilot offers companies with remote and distributed teams an effortless solution for payroll, compliance, and benefits. With the help of a knowledgeable expert and a dedicated account manager, you can leave bookkeeping and paperwork to the professionals, and redirect your attention to what ...

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What reviewers like about Pilot

  • Extremely easy to set up and onboard, with a user-friendly interface and clear instructions.
  • Quick and reliable payment processing, ensuring users receive funds promptly.
  • Supports international and cross-currency transactions, offering competitive exchange rates and transparent fees.

Where Pilot falls short

  • Occasional issues with local banking systems that may cause delays in receiving international payments.
  • Limited advanced features or integrations for businesses seeking more customization and scalability.
  • Some users express dissatisfaction with exchange rates, suggesting room for improvement despite competitive pricing.

Common Features

  • Self Service Portal

  • Multi-country

  • Benefits Management

+ 1 more

Unique Features

No unique features

Pricing

Starts from $29

9.4

SpotScore

OnPay - Payroll Software

OnPay — from $40 · 4.96★

Streamline your payroll process and save time and money.

Start Free Trial

Add to compare

⭐ Higher rated than WavePayroll

What is OnPay?

OnPay is an intuitive online payroll software designed to meet the needs of supervisors, managers, payroll specialists and people who manage pay for hourly or salaried staff. OnPay helps companies of all sizes reduce costs for processing payroll checks, making tax reports, tracking down pay ...

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What reviewers like about OnPay

  • OnPay stands out for its intuitive design, making it easy for supervisors, managers, and payroll specialists to navigate and execute payroll tasks efficiently
  • It supports both hourly and salaried employees, allowing companies to manage diverse workforce needs under one system.
  • By automating key payroll functions, OnPay helps organizations cut down on the time and expenses typically involved in payroll operations.

Where OnPay falls short

  • While great for SMBs, larger companies might find customization options less robust for complex payroll needs.
  • OnPay focuses on payroll and may require additional tools for functions like recruitment or performance management.
  • As a cloud-based solution, internet connectivity is required, which might be a constraint in certain environments.

Common Features

  • W-2 Preparation

  • Self Service Portal

  • Multi-country

+ 4 more

Unique Features

  • Wage Garnishment

  • Leave Tracking (Vacation)

  • Deductions Management

+ 3 more

Pricing

Free Trial available, Try Now

Starts from $40/Month

8.7

SpotScore

Fingercheck - Payroll Software

Fingercheck — from $23 · 4.61★

Effortless payroll management with a swipe.

Start Free Trial

Add to compare

⭐ Higher rated than WavePayroll

What is Fingercheck?

The FingerCheck payroll software does everything the other payroll programs do but with a finger swipe. Timesheets, employee punch times and attendance reports are just a few of the functions offered by FingerCheck payroll software. Attempting to enter information while on the move works ...

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What reviewers like about Fingercheck

  • Centralizes payroll, time tracking, and attendance in a single platform, making processes more efficient and error-free.
  • Easy-to-use interface and mobile app allow employees and administrators to navigate and complete tasks with ease.
  • Reporting features generate valuable insights on payroll, labor movement, and cost management.

Where Fingercheck falls short

  • User interface for complex features can be challenging for some without customer support guidance.
  • Occasional system slowdowns and delays when generating reports or loading locations.
  • Limited flexibility in building customizable reports and specific features like benefit administration.

Common Features

  • Self Service Portal

  • Direct Deposit

  • Check Printing

+ 2 more

Unique Features

  • Wage Garnishment

  • 401(k) Tracking

Pricing

Free Trial available, Try Now

Starts from $23/Month

8.8

SpotScore

Square Payroll - Payroll Software

Square Payroll — from $34 · 5★

Streamline your payroll with ease.

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5.0

(15)

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⭐ Higher rated than WavePayroll

What is Square Payroll?

Square Payroll is payroll software for small businesses and sole proprietors, particularly those already running payments or point-of-sale through Square's ecosystem. It automates pay runs, tax filings, and direct deposit, and pulls time tracking data directly from Square tools to eliminate ...

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What reviewers like about Square Payroll

  • Square Payroll integrates effortlessly with existing payroll providers, making it an ideal plug-and-play solution without the need for major system overhauls.
  • Its simple and intuitive design makes payroll management easy even for business owners or HR teams with limited technical expertise.
  • Built-in time tracking allows accurate logging of hours worked, which improves payroll precision and reduces manual errors.

Where Square Payroll falls short

  • While great for small businesses, it may lack some of the advanced reporting, analytics, or customization features needed by larger enterprises.
  • Full functionality may be best realized when used within the broader Square ecosystem, limiting flexibility for companies using other systems.
  • Businesses with multiple locations, international staff, or intricate pay structures might find the platform’s simplicity somewhat restrictive.

Common Features

  • W-2 Preparation

  • Self Service Portal

  • Multi-country

+ 4 more

Unique Features

  • Wage Garnishment

  • Leave Tracking (Vacation)

  • Deductions Management

+ 3 more

Pricing

Free Trial available, Try Now

Starts from $34/User/Month

8.1

SpotScore

CloudPay - Payroll Software

CloudPay — 4★

Streamline your payroll with ease.

Get Pricing Details

4.0

(3)

Add to compare

What is CloudPay?

CloudPay is the most user-friendly payroll software on the market. It helps you manage your staff's payroll from anywhere, anytime. This cloud-based software offers seamless interface and easy to use navigation for smooth running of your payroll. With this, you can ensure that you're paying ...

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What reviewers like about CloudPay

  • Payroll data is accessible from any device, supporting remote teams.
  • Clear layout and navigation work for non-technical users.
  • Payroll is processed accurately and on schedule.

Where CloudPay falls short

  • Reporting lacks the depth found in enterprise-level platforms.
  • Full cloud dependency means connectivity outages or downtime can block access to payroll data.

Common Features

  • Self Service Portal

  • Multi-country

  • Direct Deposit

+ 2 more

Unique Features

  • Deductions Management

  • Compensation Management

Pricing

CloudPay offers custom pricing plan

8.7

SpotScore

Microkeeper - Payroll Software

Microkeeper — from $2.25 · 4.69★

Efficiency meets affordability - simplify your payroll process.

Start Free Trial

4.7

(90)

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⭐ Higher rated than WavePayrollFree plan available

What is Microkeeper?

Microkeeper is a user-friendly payroll software that connects you with the world of business payroll processing: delivering quick online setup, automated time keeping and more. Payroll processing has never been easier or more affordable. Microkeeper gives you simplicity and convenience in ...

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What reviewers like about Microkeeper

  • Consolidates payroll, rosters, timesheets, and HR tasks into one platform.
  • Does not require extensive training to get started.
  • Automates payroll processing and other repetitive administrative tasks, saving time.

Where Microkeeper falls short

  • Occasional app or feature downtime causes minor disruptions.
  • Superannuation or payslip summary updates sometimes lack clarity or employee-facing visibility.
  • App design and layout are considered less modern by some users.

Common Features

  • Self Service Portal

  • Direct Deposit

  • Check Printing

+ 2 more

Unique Features

  • Wage Garnishment

  • Leave Tracking (Vacation)

  • Deductions Management

+ 1 more

Pricing

Free Trial available, Try Now

Starts from $2.25/User/Month, also offers free forever plan

9.2

SpotScore

QuickBooks Payroll - Payroll Software

QuickBooks Payroll — from $49 · 4.4★

Streamline your payroll process with ease.

Start Free Trial

4.4

(56)

Add to compare

⭐ Higher rated than WavePayroll

What is QuickBooks Payroll?

QuickBooks Payroll makes it easy to stay on top of your HR needs. It’s payroll software that gives you the power to handle all the payroll processing you need, from modeling an employee’s paycheck to tracking deductions and taxes. Whether you need a few employees or thousands, QuickBooks ...

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What reviewers like about QuickBooks Payroll

  • Automates tax filing, paycheck generation, and sends real-time notifications to reduce manual effort.
  • Interface includes step-by-step tutorials and works for both beginners and experienced users.
  • Integrates with QuickBooks for financial reporting and analytics.

Where QuickBooks Payroll falls short

  • Steeper pricing compared to alternative payroll systems, especially for smaller businesses or limited payroll needs.
  • Complexity in resolving reporting errors or adjusting liabilities, often requiring external support or advanced accounting knowledge.
  • Occasional glitches, lag, and freezes, especially with the online version, impacting usability and efficiency.

Common Features

  • W-2 Preparation

  • Self Service Portal

  • Direct Deposit

+ 3 more

Unique Features

  • Wage Garnishment

  • Leave Tracking (Vacation)

  • Deductions Management

+ 3 more

Pricing

Free Trial available, Try Now

Starts from $49/Month

8.7

SpotScore

Papaya Global - Payroll Software

Papaya Global — from $20 · 4.45★

Global payroll made simple.

See Plans & Pricing

4.5

(34)

Add to compare

⭐ Higher rated than WavePayroll

What is Papaya Global?

Papaya Global is a cloud-based payroll management software designed for multinational businesses. It offers a variety of essential features such as data security, cost breakdown analysis, records management, and benefits administration. This integrative platform allows businesses to streamline ...

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What reviewers like about Papaya Global

  • Handles global payroll processing and hiring across multiple countries with local compliance.
  • Centralized interface for managing payroll with an accessible platform.
  • Dedicated payroll specialists and Customer Success Managers provide responsive support.

Where Papaya Global falls short

  • Invoices often lack detail, making it hard to associate charges with specific employees.
  • Bulk updates to employee data require manual processes or specific file requests.
  • PTO imports and certain technical features need improvement.

Common Features

  • Self Service Portal

  • Multi-country

  • Direct Deposit

+ 2 more

Unique Features

  • Leave Tracking (Vacation)

  • Deductions Management

  • Compensation Management

+ 1 more

Pricing

Starts from $20/User/Month

WavePayroll competitors, compared

There are 10 direct WavePayroll competitors in Payroll Software. The ones that come up most often are EPAY HCM, APS Payroll and Pilot. Each is compared against WavePayroll on rating, pricing and feature coverage below.

Tools similar to WavePayroll

Searches for "sites like WavePayroll" and "apps like WavePayroll" land on the same set of options as "WavePayroll alternatives" — the 10 options below cover both, whether you want a like-for-like replacement or something lighter.

Why each made the list

EPAY HCM8.5Best for mid-size & enterprise teams

Exceptional customer support, available 24/7, ensuring quick and effective troubleshooting.

Watch for: Occasional complexity with certain features, like adding mass PTO with different hour allocations for part-time vs. full-time employees, creating additional work.

APS Payroll8.7Best for teams of all sizes

Integration with Sage Intacct simplifies operations and reduces manual work.

Watch for: Implementation can be disorganized with some inconsistencies and delays in setup or onboarding.

Pilot7.9Best for teams of all sizes

Extremely easy to set up and onboard, with a user-friendly interface and clear instructions.

Watch for: Occasional issues with local banking systems that may cause delays in receiving international payments.

OnPay9.4Best for teams of all sizes

OnPay stands out for its intuitive design, making it easy for supervisors, managers, and payroll specialists to navigate and execute payroll tasks efficiently

Watch for: While great for SMBs, larger companies might find customization options less robust for complex payroll needs.

Fingercheck8.7Best for teams of all sizes

Centralizes payroll, time tracking, and attendance in a single platform, making processes more efficient and error-free.

Watch for: User interface for complex features can be challenging for some without customer support guidance.

Square Payroll8.8Best for teams of all sizes

Square Payroll integrates effortlessly with existing payroll providers, making it an ideal plug-and-play solution without the need for major system overhauls.

Watch for: While great for small businesses, it may lack some of the advanced reporting, analytics, or customization features needed by larger enterprises.

CloudPay8.1Best for mid-size & enterprise teams

Payroll data is accessible from any device, supporting remote teams.

Watch for: Reporting lacks the depth found in enterprise-level platforms.

Microkeeper8.7Best for teams of all sizes

Consolidates payroll, rosters, timesheets, and HR tasks into one platform.

Watch for: Occasional app or feature downtime causes minor disruptions.

QuickBooks Payroll9.2Best for small businesses

Automates tax filing, paycheck generation, and sends real-time notifications to reduce manual effort.

Watch for: Steeper pricing compared to alternative payroll systems, especially for smaller businesses or limited payroll needs.

Papaya Global8.7Best for teams of all sizes

Handles global payroll processing and hiring across multiple countries with local compliance.

Watch for: Invoices often lack detail, making it hard to associate charges with specific employees.

Why teams look for a WavePayroll alternative

The reasons teams outgrow WavePayroll are fairly consistent:

  • Customer service is slow and frequently unresponsive, making issue resolution time-consuming.
  • Limited customization for non-US/Canada financial regulations, creating difficulties for international users.
  • Slower payment transfer times and limited ability to run emergency or extra payroll.
  • Lack of flexibility in payroll processing, such as paying specific employees or handling contractor workflows intuitively.

What to keep in mind choosing a WavePayroll alternative

How the 10 alternatives line up on price and ratings: 5 offer a free tier; and Square Payroll is the highest rated at 5★ across 15 reviews.

Our ranking method.

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Disclaimer: This research has been collated from a variety of authoritative sources. We welcome your feedback at [email protected].