Quick Overview
- 1#1: ADP Workforce Now - Comprehensive cloud-based HRMS and payroll solution offering payroll processing, compliance, benefits administration, and talent management for businesses of all sizes.
- 2#2: Workday HCM - Enterprise-grade cloud platform unifying HR, payroll, financials, and analytics with AI-driven insights for large organizations.
- 3#3: UKG Pro - Integrated HR, payroll, scheduling, and time-tracking system designed for mid-to-large enterprises with global workforce management.
- 4#4: Paycom - All-in-one HR and payroll software featuring employee self-service, automation, and real-time data syncing to reduce administrative burdens.
- 5#5: Paylocity - Modern HRMS with payroll, benefits, talent management, and employee engagement tools emphasizing user-friendly mobile access.
- 6#6: Rippling - Unified platform for global HR, IT, payroll, and benefits administration that automates employee lifecycle management.
- 7#7: Gusto - User-friendly payroll and HR software tailored for small businesses, including automated tax filing, benefits, and compliance tools.
- 8#8: BambooHR - Intuitive HRMS platform with seamless payroll integrations, applicant tracking, and performance management for growing SMBs.
- 9#9: Paychex - Reliable payroll processing, HR outsourcing, and benefits administration services for small to mid-sized businesses.
- 10#10: Dayforce - Real-time HCM suite integrating payroll, HR, benefits, and workforce management with continuous calculation capabilities.
We selected and ranked tools based on key factors including payroll accuracy, automation capabilities, integration flexibility, user experience across teams, and overall value, ensuring the list reflects solutions that deliver consistent performance and address modern business demands.
Comparison Table
This comparison table helps businesses navigate top HRMS payroll software, including ADP Workforce Now, Workday HCM, UKG Pro, Paycom, Paylocity, and more. Readers will find key details like core features, integration options, and usability to make informed decisions.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ADP Workforce Now Comprehensive cloud-based HRMS and payroll solution offering payroll processing, compliance, benefits administration, and talent management for businesses of all sizes. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 2 | Workday HCM Enterprise-grade cloud platform unifying HR, payroll, financials, and analytics with AI-driven insights for large organizations. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | UKG Pro Integrated HR, payroll, scheduling, and time-tracking system designed for mid-to-large enterprises with global workforce management. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Paycom All-in-one HR and payroll software featuring employee self-service, automation, and real-time data syncing to reduce administrative burdens. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Paylocity Modern HRMS with payroll, benefits, talent management, and employee engagement tools emphasizing user-friendly mobile access. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | Rippling Unified platform for global HR, IT, payroll, and benefits administration that automates employee lifecycle management. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Gusto User-friendly payroll and HR software tailored for small businesses, including automated tax filing, benefits, and compliance tools. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 8 | BambooHR Intuitive HRMS platform with seamless payroll integrations, applicant tracking, and performance management for growing SMBs. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 9 | Paychex Reliable payroll processing, HR outsourcing, and benefits administration services for small to mid-sized businesses. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Dayforce Real-time HCM suite integrating payroll, HR, benefits, and workforce management with continuous calculation capabilities. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
Comprehensive cloud-based HRMS and payroll solution offering payroll processing, compliance, benefits administration, and talent management for businesses of all sizes.
Enterprise-grade cloud platform unifying HR, payroll, financials, and analytics with AI-driven insights for large organizations.
Integrated HR, payroll, scheduling, and time-tracking system designed for mid-to-large enterprises with global workforce management.
All-in-one HR and payroll software featuring employee self-service, automation, and real-time data syncing to reduce administrative burdens.
Modern HRMS with payroll, benefits, talent management, and employee engagement tools emphasizing user-friendly mobile access.
Unified platform for global HR, IT, payroll, and benefits administration that automates employee lifecycle management.
User-friendly payroll and HR software tailored for small businesses, including automated tax filing, benefits, and compliance tools.
Intuitive HRMS platform with seamless payroll integrations, applicant tracking, and performance management for growing SMBs.
Reliable payroll processing, HR outsourcing, and benefits administration services for small to mid-sized businesses.
Real-time HCM suite integrating payroll, HR, benefits, and workforce management with continuous calculation capabilities.
ADP Workforce Now
enterpriseComprehensive cloud-based HRMS and payroll solution offering payroll processing, compliance, benefits administration, and talent management for businesses of all sizes.
ADP DataCloud for AI-driven workforce analytics and predictive insights
ADP Workforce Now is a leading comprehensive HCM platform that integrates payroll processing, HR management, talent acquisition, benefits administration, time and attendance, and compliance tools into a single solution. Designed for mid-sized to large enterprises, it automates the entire employee lifecycle from recruiting and onboarding to performance reviews and offboarding. With advanced analytics via ADP DataCloud and mobile accessibility, it enables data-driven HR decisions and ensures regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions.
Pros
- Comprehensive all-in-one HCM suite covering payroll, HR, and talent management
- Robust compliance features and accurate multi-state/global payroll processing
- Scalable for enterprises with strong analytics and integration capabilities
Cons
- High cost structure requiring custom quotes
- Steep learning curve for complex features
- Limited out-of-box customization for niche reporting needs
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises needing a scalable, feature-rich HRMS and payroll solution with enterprise-grade compliance.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $100-$200+ per employee per month depending on modules and workforce size.
Workday HCM
enterpriseEnterprise-grade cloud platform unifying HR, payroll, financials, and analytics with AI-driven insights for large organizations.
Contiguous single-platform architecture delivering real-time payroll and HR data without silos
Workday HCM is a cloud-native, enterprise-grade human capital management platform that seamlessly integrates core HR functions with advanced payroll processing, talent management, and analytics. It supports global payroll for multi-country operations, automating compliance, deductions, and payments while providing real-time visibility into workforce data. Designed for scalability, it unifies employee, financial, and operational data on a single platform, enabling data-driven decisions.
Pros
- Unified architecture integrating HRMS and payroll for real-time data accuracy
- Robust global payroll capabilities with automated compliance and multi-currency support
- Advanced AI-driven analytics and reporting for strategic workforce insights
Cons
- High implementation costs and lengthy deployment timelines (often 6-18 months)
- Steep learning curve due to feature depth, requiring extensive training
- Premium pricing not ideal for small or mid-sized organizations
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, global workforces needing an integrated HCM and payroll solution.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $150-$250 per employee per month plus substantial implementation fees.
UKG Pro
enterpriseIntegrated HR, payroll, scheduling, and time-tracking system designed for mid-to-large enterprises with global workforce management.
AI-powered People Fabric for unified workforce data intelligence and predictive insights
UKG Pro is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform that integrates HR management, payroll processing, workforce scheduling, and talent management into a single system. It automates payroll for global workforces, ensures compliance with complex regulations, and leverages AI for predictive analytics and employee insights. Ideal for scaling organizations, it handles everything from onboarding to performance management with robust reporting tools.
Pros
- Extensive feature set including global payroll and AI-driven analytics
- Strong compliance tools for multi-country operations
- Seamless integration across HR, time, and payroll modules
Cons
- High implementation costs and long setup time
- Steep learning curve for non-enterprise users
- Pricing can be prohibitive for smaller businesses
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with complex, global workforces requiring integrated HCM and payroll solutions.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $15-30 per employee per month for enterprise plans, with minimums and add-ons.
Paycom
enterpriseAll-in-one HR and payroll software featuring employee self-service, automation, and real-time data syncing to reduce administrative burdens.
Beti® single-app access for employees and managers to handle all HR, payroll, and time tasks in one intuitive interface
Paycom is a comprehensive, all-in-one HRMS and payroll software platform that integrates payroll processing, HR management, time and labor tracking, talent acquisition, and benefits administration into a single application called Beti®. It enables employee self-service for tasks like viewing pay stubs, requesting PTO, and completing onboarding via mobile app. Designed for scalability, Paycom automates compliance-heavy processes and provides robust reporting for mid-to-large businesses.
Pros
- All-in-one platform reduces need for multiple tools
- Powerful employee self-service via Beti® app
- Strong payroll accuracy and regulatory compliance
Cons
- Expensive pricing model
- Lengthy and complex implementation
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises needing an integrated HR-payroll suite with extensive employee self-service.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $100-$200+ per employee/month depending on modules and company size.
Paylocity
enterpriseModern HRMS with payroll, benefits, talent management, and employee engagement tools emphasizing user-friendly mobile access.
Its intuitive mobile-first employee experience platform, enabling seamless access to paystubs, time-off requests, and onboarding from any device.
Paylocity is a cloud-based HRMS and payroll software that provides comprehensive tools for payroll processing, benefits administration, time and attendance tracking, recruiting, onboarding, performance management, and employee self-service. It integrates HR, payroll, and talent management into a single platform with strong analytics and reporting features. Ideal for mid-market companies, it emphasizes employee engagement through mobile accessibility and customizable workflows.
Pros
- All-in-one platform covering full HR and payroll needs
- Highly rated mobile app for employee self-service
- Strong integrations with third-party tools and robust reporting
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and can be expensive for small businesses
- Implementation and onboarding process can be lengthy
- Some advanced features require additional modules at extra cost
Best For
Mid-sized businesses seeking an integrated HRMS payroll solution with excellent employee engagement and mobile capabilities.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $20-$50 per employee per month based on company size and selected modules.
Rippling
enterpriseUnified platform for global HR, IT, payroll, and benefits administration that automates employee lifecycle management.
Seamless Day 1 automation that activates payroll, benefits, and IT access instantly upon hire
Rippling is a comprehensive all-in-one platform that unifies HR, payroll, IT, and finance operations for modern businesses. It streamlines employee onboarding, payroll processing, benefits administration, compliance management, and device provisioning in a single system. Ideal for scaling companies, it automates workflows across global teams while ensuring data synchronization and regulatory adherence.
Pros
- Unified HR, payroll, IT, and finance in one platform reducing silos
- Automated global payroll with multi-country compliance and fast onboarding
- Real-time employee data sync and app provisioning for efficiency
Cons
- Custom pricing can be expensive for small teams or basic needs
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations
- Some features like international payroll still expanding geographically
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise businesses needing an integrated workforce management platform with strong automation.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting at ~$8/user/month for core HR, with payroll and add-ons pushing averages to $20-40/user/month based on modules and scale.
Gusto
specializedUser-friendly payroll and HR software tailored for small businesses, including automated tax filing, benefits, and compliance tools.
Full-service payroll automation that handles all federal, state, and local tax filings and payments effortlessly
Gusto is an all-in-one HRMS and payroll platform designed primarily for small to medium-sized U.S. businesses, offering automated payroll processing, tax filing, and compliance management. It integrates employee benefits administration, time tracking, onboarding, and performance management into a single intuitive dashboard. Beyond core payroll, Gusto provides tools for hiring, PTO tracking, and employee self-service, making it a comprehensive solution for streamlining HR operations.
Pros
- Automated full-service payroll with tax calculations, filings, and direct deposits
- Seamless integration of HR tools like benefits, onboarding, and time-off requests
- Highly intuitive interface with mobile app for employees and admins
Cons
- Limited to U.S. operations with no international payroll support
- Pricing scales quickly with add-ons and employee count
- Lacks advanced analytics and reporting for enterprise-scale needs
Best For
Small to medium-sized U.S. businesses seeking an easy-to-use, all-in-one payroll and basic HR solution without needing complex enterprise features.
Pricing
Simple ($40 base + $6/person/month), Plus ($80 + $12/person/month), Premium (custom quote); contractor-only at $35 base + $6/contractor/month.
BambooHR
specializedIntuitive HRMS platform with seamless payroll integrations, applicant tracking, and performance management for growing SMBs.
Employee self-service portal that allows workers to update info, request time off, and view pay stubs independently
BambooHR is a cloud-based HRMS platform designed for small to medium-sized businesses, offering tools for employee data management, onboarding, performance reviews, time-off tracking, and integrated payroll processing primarily for US companies. It emphasizes user-friendly interfaces and automation to simplify HR tasks, allowing admins to focus on strategic initiatives rather than manual processes. While robust for core HR functions, its payroll capabilities are solid but best suited for straightforward US payroll needs with limited international support.
Pros
- Highly intuitive interface with mobile app support
- Comprehensive employee self-service portal
- Strong customer support and onboarding assistance
Cons
- Payroll limited to US operations only
- Pricing scales up quickly for larger teams
- Advanced reporting requires custom setup or add-ons
Best For
Small to medium-sized US-based businesses looking for an easy-to-use all-in-one HRMS with reliable payroll integration.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at $6-10 per employee/month for core HR, plus $4-6 per employee/month for payroll; no free tier.
Paychex
enterpriseReliable payroll processing, HR outsourcing, and benefits administration services for small to mid-sized businesses.
Paychex Accuracy Promise, guaranteeing 100% accurate payroll and tax filings with reimbursement for penalties if errors occur due to their processing.
Paychex is a comprehensive HRMS and payroll software solution designed for small to mid-sized businesses, offering integrated payroll processing, HR management, benefits administration, time and attendance tracking, and talent management through its Paychex Flex platform. It automates payroll calculations, tax filings, and compliance reporting while providing employee self-service portals for onboarding, benefits enrollment, and payslip access. With dedicated support specialists and outsourcing options, Paychex emphasizes accuracy and regulatory adherence across multiple industries.
Pros
- Robust payroll accuracy and automated tax compliance with guaranteed filing
- Integrated HR tools including onboarding, performance management, and benefits administration
- Dedicated customer support and payroll specialists for personalized assistance
Cons
- Pricing can be expensive for very small businesses with per-employee fees
- Limited customization options compared to more flexible platforms
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features despite intuitive core interface
Best For
Mid-sized businesses seeking a reliable, all-in-one payroll and HR solution with strong compliance support and outsourcing capabilities.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at around $59/month base plus $5-$10 per employee; includes payroll, HR, and add-ons like benefits or time tracking.
Dayforce
enterpriseReal-time HCM suite integrating payroll, HR, benefits, and workforce management with continuous calculation capabilities.
Continuous real-time payroll calculation with on-demand pay access via Dayforce Wallet
Dayforce, from Ceridian, is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM suite that unifies HR, payroll, benefits, time and attendance, recruiting, and workforce management in a single real-time database. It excels in handling complex payroll processing with daily calculations, ensuring accuracy and compliance across multiple countries. The platform leverages AI for predictive analytics and employee self-service, making it ideal for large-scale operations seeking integrated workforce solutions.
Pros
- Unified single-database architecture eliminates silos
- Real-time payroll and AI-driven workforce insights
- Strong global compliance and scalability for enterprises
Cons
- Expensive implementation and ongoing costs
- Steep learning curve and lengthy setup (6-12 months)
- Overkill for small businesses with simpler needs
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, global workforces needing an all-in-one HCM platform.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $15-30 per employee per month depending on modules, scale, and customizations.
Conclusion
The review of top HRMS payroll tools highlights ADP Workforce Now as the leading choice, boasting comprehensive features for businesses of all sizes. Workday HCM and UKG Pro follow, each excelling in enterprise and mid-to-large needs respectively, offering tailored solutions to streamline operations. With such strong options, organizations are equipped to find the ideal fit for their unique requirements.
Begin optimizing your HR and payroll processes by exploring ADP Workforce Now—its robust cloud-based tools are designed to enhance efficiency. Alternatively, consider Workday HCM or UKG Pro based on your specific scale and goals, and take the first step toward a more streamlined workflow today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison