Quick Overview
- 1#1: Gusto - Full-service payroll and HR platform with built-in time tracking, automated tax filing, and benefits administration for small businesses.
- 2#2: Rippling - All-in-one workforce platform that unifies payroll, HR, IT, and time tracking with global payroll support.
- 3#3: ADP - Comprehensive payroll, HR, and time & attendance solutions with advanced analytics for businesses of all sizes.
- 4#4: Paychex - Integrated payroll, HCM, and time tracking services with robust compliance and reporting features.
- 5#5: UKG - Cloud HCM suite excelling in workforce management, scheduling, timekeeping, and payroll processing.
- 6#6: Paylocity - Modern HCM platform providing seamless payroll, time tracking, and employee engagement tools.
- 7#7: BambooHR - Intuitive HR software with payroll integration and mobile time tracking for growing teams.
- 8#8: QuickBooks Payroll - Seamlessly integrated payroll and time tracking solution connected to QuickBooks accounting software.
- 9#9: OnPay - Affordable full-service payroll with unlimited payroll runs and time tracking integrations for small businesses.
- 10#10: Patriot Software - Simple, cost-effective payroll and time tracking software with in-house US-based support.
We prioritized tools based on feature breadth, user experience, performance reliability, and value, ensuring the list offers comprehensive options for businesses of all sizes and operational needs.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores top Payroll and Time Tracking Software tools, including Gusto, Rippling, ADP, Paychex, UKG, and more, to highlight key features, pricing, and usability. Readers will discover how each tool streamlines payroll processes, time tracking, integrations, and additional capabilities, aiding informed decisions for efficient operations.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gusto Full-service payroll and HR platform with built-in time tracking, automated tax filing, and benefits administration for small businesses. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Rippling All-in-one workforce platform that unifies payroll, HR, IT, and time tracking with global payroll support. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 3 | ADP Comprehensive payroll, HR, and time & attendance solutions with advanced analytics for businesses of all sizes. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Paychex Integrated payroll, HCM, and time tracking services with robust compliance and reporting features. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 5 | UKG Cloud HCM suite excelling in workforce management, scheduling, timekeeping, and payroll processing. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | Paylocity Modern HCM platform providing seamless payroll, time tracking, and employee engagement tools. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | BambooHR Intuitive HR software with payroll integration and mobile time tracking for growing teams. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 8 | QuickBooks Payroll Seamlessly integrated payroll and time tracking solution connected to QuickBooks accounting software. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | OnPay Affordable full-service payroll with unlimited payroll runs and time tracking integrations for small businesses. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 10 | Patriot Software Simple, cost-effective payroll and time tracking software with in-house US-based support. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 |
Full-service payroll and HR platform with built-in time tracking, automated tax filing, and benefits administration for small businesses.
All-in-one workforce platform that unifies payroll, HR, IT, and time tracking with global payroll support.
Comprehensive payroll, HR, and time & attendance solutions with advanced analytics for businesses of all sizes.
Integrated payroll, HCM, and time tracking services with robust compliance and reporting features.
Cloud HCM suite excelling in workforce management, scheduling, timekeeping, and payroll processing.
Modern HCM platform providing seamless payroll, time tracking, and employee engagement tools.
Intuitive HR software with payroll integration and mobile time tracking for growing teams.
Seamlessly integrated payroll and time tracking solution connected to QuickBooks accounting software.
Affordable full-service payroll with unlimited payroll runs and time tracking integrations for small businesses.
Simple, cost-effective payroll and time tracking software with in-house US-based support.
Gusto
specializedFull-service payroll and HR platform with built-in time tracking, automated tax filing, and benefits administration for small businesses.
Full-service payroll that automatically handles all federal, state, and local tax calculations, filings, and payments with accuracy guarantees
Gusto is a comprehensive payroll, HR, and benefits platform tailored for small to medium-sized U.S. businesses, automating payroll processing, tax filings, and compliance. It includes robust time tracking features with mobile clock-in/out, GPS verification, scheduling, and PTO management integrated seamlessly into payroll runs. Beyond basics, Gusto offers employee self-service portals, benefits administration, and performance tools, making it a full-service solution for workforce management.
Pros
- Automated full-service payroll with guaranteed tax filing and payments
- Intuitive time tracking app with geofencing and overtime automation
- All-in-one HR tools including onboarding, benefits, and compliance support
Cons
- Limited to U.S. operations with no international payroll
- Pricing scales up quickly for larger teams or advanced features
- Some integrations require higher-tier plans
Best For
Small to medium U.S. businesses seeking an intuitive, all-in-one payroll and time tracking solution with built-in HR compliance.
Pricing
Starts at $40 base + $6/employee/month (Simple); $80 + $12 (Plus); custom Premium; contractor-only from $35 base + $6/contractor/month.
Rippling
enterpriseAll-in-one workforce platform that unifies payroll, HR, IT, and time tracking with global payroll support.
Unified employee system that automatically provisions/deprovisions access and syncs time/payroll data across global locations
Rippling is an all-in-one workforce management platform that integrates HR, IT, payroll, and finance, with robust payroll and time tracking capabilities. It automates payroll runs across 100+ countries, handles multi-state compliance, and syncs time tracking data directly to payroll for accurate, error-free processing. Time tracking includes mobile clock-in/out, approvals, scheduling, and PTO management, all unified under a single employee profile.
Pros
- Seamless integration between time tracking, payroll, and HR for automated processing
- Global payroll support in 100+ countries with built-in compliance
- Unified employee profiles that sync data across devices, apps, and finance
Cons
- Higher cost for small businesses due to per-employee pricing
- Steeper learning curve from extensive features
- Custom pricing requires sales contact, lacking transparency
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise companies needing integrated payroll, time tracking, and global HR management.
Pricing
Starts at $8/user/month for core HR; payroll and advanced features in higher tiers with custom quotes.
ADP
enterpriseComprehensive payroll, HR, and time & attendance solutions with advanced analytics for businesses of all sizes.
AI-driven workforce management with predictive scheduling and real-time payroll syncing from time data
ADP is a leading provider of comprehensive payroll and HR software solutions, offering automated payroll processing, tax compliance, and benefits administration for businesses of all sizes. Its time tracking capabilities, powered by integrations like Workforce Management (formerly Kronos), enable accurate hour logging, scheduling, and attendance management with real-time data syncing to payroll. The platform also includes employee self-service portals, advanced reporting, and analytics to streamline workforce operations and ensure regulatory compliance.
Pros
- Extensive compliance tools for taxes and regulations across multiple jurisdictions
- Robust time tracking with scheduling, geofencing, and mobile access
- Scalable for enterprises with strong integrations to HR, ERP, and third-party apps
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- High pricing that may not suit small businesses
- Custom implementation can take time and require dedicated support
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises requiring enterprise-grade payroll processing integrated with advanced time and attendance tracking.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically starts at $20-$60 per employee/month for basic payroll, scaling up to $100+ for full-suite with time tracking and HR features.
Paychex
enterpriseIntegrated payroll, HCM, and time tracking services with robust compliance and reporting features.
Automated multi-state tax filing and compliance that minimizes errors and penalties
Paychex is a robust payroll and HR platform offering automated payroll processing, tax compliance, and direct deposit for businesses of all sizes. It includes time and attendance tracking with mobile clock-in, scheduling, and geofencing capabilities to monitor employee hours accurately. The software integrates seamlessly with HR tools, benefits administration, and reporting for comprehensive workforce management.
Pros
- Comprehensive payroll automation with multi-state tax compliance
- Intuitive time tracking app with GPS verification and PTO management
- Strong integration with HR, benefits, and accounting software
Cons
- Custom pricing can be costly for very small businesses
- Some advanced features require add-ons or higher tiers
- Customer support response times vary during peak seasons
Best For
Small to mid-sized businesses needing reliable, compliant payroll integrated with time tracking and HR tools.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically starts at $80/month base + $5-$6 per employee/pay period, with time tracking as an add-on.
UKG
enterpriseCloud HCM suite excelling in workforce management, scheduling, timekeeping, and payroll processing.
AI-powered workforce management with predictive scheduling and real-time anomaly detection in time tracking
UKG (Ultimate Kronos Group) is a leading HCM platform offering robust payroll processing and time tracking solutions tailored for mid-to-large enterprises. It excels in global payroll compliance, automated tax filings, and advanced workforce management, including time and attendance via mobile apps, biometrics, and geofencing. The software integrates seamlessly with HR, scheduling, and analytics for real-time insights and efficiency.
Pros
- Comprehensive global payroll with multi-country support and compliance automation
- Advanced time tracking with biometrics, geofencing, and mobile accessibility
- Powerful analytics and AI-driven forecasting for workforce optimization
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- High implementation costs and lengthy setup process
- Premium pricing may not suit small businesses
Best For
Large, multi-location enterprises with complex workforce needs requiring integrated payroll, time tracking, and compliance.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $10-30+ per employee/month depending on modules, scale, and deployment (cloud or on-premise).
Paylocity
enterpriseModern HCM platform providing seamless payroll, time tracking, and employee engagement tools.
Biometric time tracking with facial recognition and geofencing to prevent time theft and ensure location-based accuracy.
Paylocity is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform specializing in payroll processing, time and attendance tracking, and integrated HR management. It automates payroll calculations, tax compliance, direct deposits, and W-2/1099 filings while offering mobile time tracking with geofencing and biometric verification to ensure accuracy. The platform also includes employee self-service portals for scheduling, PTO requests, and real-time pay stubs, making it suitable for streamlined workforce management.
Pros
- Seamless integration of payroll and time tracking with automated compliance and reporting
- Robust mobile app supporting geofencing, facial recognition, and shift scheduling
- Extensive employee self-service tools for PTO, payslips, and time-off approvals
Cons
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for mid-sized businesses, less ideal for very small teams
- Implementation and onboarding can take several weeks with dedicated support needed
- Some advanced customizations require additional modules or professional services
Best For
Mid-market companies (50-1000+ employees) needing an integrated payroll, time tracking, and HR solution with strong mobile capabilities.
Pricing
Quote-based; core payroll and time tracking typically $15-25 per employee per month, plus setup fees and add-ons for advanced features.
BambooHR
specializedIntuitive HR software with payroll integration and mobile time tracking for growing teams.
Integrated time-off and payroll data syncing directly within the HR dashboard for streamlined employee lifecycle management
BambooHR is primarily an all-in-one HR management platform that includes payroll processing for US-based employees and time-off tracking for vacations, sick leave, and PTO requests. It automates payroll runs, tax filings, and direct deposits in select states, while offering self-service portals for employees to submit time-off requests and managers to approve them. Though not a dedicated payroll or advanced time-tracking tool, it excels in integrating these functions with core HR features like onboarding and performance management.
Pros
- User-friendly interface with mobile app support
- Seamless integration with HR workflows
- Automated payroll compliance for US states
Cons
- Payroll limited to select US states only
- Basic time-off tracking lacks robust hourly time clocking
- Advanced time tracking requires third-party integrations
Best For
Small to mid-sized US businesses wanting integrated HR, basic payroll, and time-off management without separate tools.
Pricing
Core HR from $6-12 per employee/month (billed annually); Payroll add-on ~$4-6 per employee/month plus $6-10 per pay run.
QuickBooks Payroll
specializedSeamlessly integrated payroll and time tracking solution connected to QuickBooks accounting software.
One-click payroll that automatically imports time data from QuickBooks Time for instant pay runs and tax compliance
QuickBooks Payroll is a robust solution from Intuit designed for small to medium businesses, automating payroll processing, tax calculations, filings, and employee payments including direct deposits. It integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks Online accounting software for streamlined financial management and includes time tracking via QuickBooks Time (formerly TSheets) for accurate hour logging, scheduling, and GPS-enabled mobile tracking. This combination makes it a one-stop shop for payroll compliance and workforce time management.
Pros
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks accounting for unified data flow
- Automated federal and state tax filings with guaranteed accuracy
- Advanced time tracking with mobile app, GPS, and scheduling tools
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers that add up for larger teams
- Steep learning curve for non-QuickBooks users
- Limited support for international payroll outside the US
Best For
Small to medium-sized US businesses already using QuickBooks that need integrated payroll processing and employee time tracking.
Pricing
Core plan at $45/mo + $6/employee; Premium at $80/mo + $9/employee; Elite at $125/mo + $11/employee (minimums apply); QuickBooks Time from $20/mo base + $10/user/mo.
OnPay
specializedAffordable full-service payroll with unlimited payroll runs and time tracking integrations for small businesses.
Unlimited monthly payroll runs included in base pricing
OnPay is a full-service payroll software tailored for small to medium-sized US businesses, handling payroll processing, automated tax calculations, filings, and direct deposits with unlimited monthly runs. It integrates with popular time tracking tools like QuickBooks Time and TSheets for accurate hour logging and payroll syncing. The platform also offers employee self-service portals, benefits administration, and over 200 app integrations for comprehensive workforce management.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with full tax filing included
- Unlimited payroll runs and seamless time tracking integrations
- User-friendly interface with strong employee self-service tools
Cons
- No native time tracking; relies on third-party integrations
- US-only support with no international payroll
- Limited advanced HR features compared to enterprise solutions
Best For
Small to medium US businesses seeking cost-effective payroll with reliable time tracking via integrations.
Pricing
$40 base fee + $6 per active employee/month; 30-day free trial available.
Patriot Software
specializedSimple, cost-effective payroll and time tracking software with in-house US-based support.
Lifetime Rate Lock Guarantee ensuring no future price increases
Patriot Software provides affordable online payroll processing and time & attendance tracking tailored for small businesses. It automates payroll calculations, tax filings, direct deposits, and employee time tracking with seamless integration between modules. The platform emphasizes compliance, simplicity, and dedicated U.S.-based support to streamline HR tasks.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing with transparent costs
- User-friendly interface suitable for non-experts
- Excellent U.S.-based customer support and tax guarantees
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics
- Fewer third-party integrations compared to competitors
- Basic HR tools lacking depth for complex needs
Best For
Small businesses with under 50 employees seeking simple, cost-effective payroll and time tracking without advanced customization.
Pricing
Basic Payroll: $17 base + $4/employee/month; Full Service Payroll: $37 base + $4/employee/month; Time & Attendance: $4/active employee/month (billed annually).
Conclusion
The reviewed tools offer a range of robust solutions, with Gusto leading as the top choice for its seamless integration of payroll, HR, time tracking, and benefits administration, particularly suited for small businesses. Rippling stands out as a versatile all-in-one platform for global operations, while ADP excels with advanced analytics for businesses of all sizes, highlighting the diversity of tools available to meet different needs.
Take control of your payroll and time tracking—start with Gusto to experience its intuitive features and dedicated support, designed to simplify workflow and empower your team.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison