Quick Overview
- 1#1: QuickBooks Online - Comprehensive cloud-based accounting and payroll software with invoicing, expense tracking, and tax compliance for small businesses.
- 2#2: Gusto - Full-service payroll, HR, and benefits platform that integrates seamlessly with accounting tools for small businesses.
- 3#3: Xero - Cloud accounting software with integrated payroll, bank reconciliation, and reporting features for small business owners.
- 4#4: ADP RUN - Scalable payroll and HR solution offering automated tax filing and compliance tools for small businesses.
- 5#5: Paychex Flex - Integrated payroll, HR, and benefits management platform with robust reporting for small to mid-sized businesses.
- 6#6: Wave - Free online accounting and payroll software with invoicing and receipt scanning for solopreneurs and small teams.
- 7#7: OnPay - User-friendly payroll software with unlimited payroll runs, expert support, and accounting integrations for small businesses.
- 8#8: Patriot Software - Affordable full-service payroll and basic accounting software with direct deposit and tax filing for small businesses.
- 9#9: Rippling - All-in-one HR, payroll, and IT platform that automates employee onboarding and compliance for growing small businesses.
- 10#10: SurePayroll - Simple online payroll service with automated taxes and multi-state support designed for small business owners.
We selected and ranked these tools based on key factors like feature breadth (e.g., tax compliance, integration), user experience, reliability, and value, ensuring the list includes platforms that balance functionality with accessibility for small business owners.
Comparison Table
This comparison table equips small business owners to evaluate leading accounting and payroll software tools like QuickBooks Online, Gusto, Xero, ADP RUN, and Paychex Flex, highlighting key features, pricing, and usability to identify the most suited solution.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | QuickBooks Online Comprehensive cloud-based accounting and payroll software with invoicing, expense tracking, and tax compliance for small businesses. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Gusto Full-service payroll, HR, and benefits platform that integrates seamlessly with accounting tools for small businesses. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Xero Cloud accounting software with integrated payroll, bank reconciliation, and reporting features for small business owners. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 4 | ADP RUN Scalable payroll and HR solution offering automated tax filing and compliance tools for small businesses. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 5 | Paychex Flex Integrated payroll, HR, and benefits management platform with robust reporting for small to mid-sized businesses. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Wave Free online accounting and payroll software with invoicing and receipt scanning for solopreneurs and small teams. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 7 | OnPay User-friendly payroll software with unlimited payroll runs, expert support, and accounting integrations for small businesses. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 8 | Patriot Software Affordable full-service payroll and basic accounting software with direct deposit and tax filing for small businesses. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 7.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 9 | Rippling All-in-one HR, payroll, and IT platform that automates employee onboarding and compliance for growing small businesses. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 10 | SurePayroll Simple online payroll service with automated taxes and multi-state support designed for small business owners. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
Comprehensive cloud-based accounting and payroll software with invoicing, expense tracking, and tax compliance for small businesses.
Full-service payroll, HR, and benefits platform that integrates seamlessly with accounting tools for small businesses.
Cloud accounting software with integrated payroll, bank reconciliation, and reporting features for small business owners.
Scalable payroll and HR solution offering automated tax filing and compliance tools for small businesses.
Integrated payroll, HR, and benefits management platform with robust reporting for small to mid-sized businesses.
Free online accounting and payroll software with invoicing and receipt scanning for solopreneurs and small teams.
User-friendly payroll software with unlimited payroll runs, expert support, and accounting integrations for small businesses.
Affordable full-service payroll and basic accounting software with direct deposit and tax filing for small businesses.
All-in-one HR, payroll, and IT platform that automates employee onboarding and compliance for growing small businesses.
Simple online payroll service with automated taxes and multi-state support designed for small business owners.
QuickBooks Online
specializedComprehensive cloud-based accounting and payroll software with invoicing, expense tracking, and tax compliance for small businesses.
Automated full-service payroll with federal/state tax filing and payments handled directly through Intuit
QuickBooks Online is a leading cloud-based accounting software tailored for small businesses, providing comprehensive tools for invoicing, expense tracking, bank reconciliation, financial reporting, and inventory management. It integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks Payroll, enabling automated payroll processing, direct deposits, tax calculations, filings, and employee self-service portals. With real-time data access via web and mobile apps, it supports collaboration and scalability for growing operations.
Pros
- Seamless accounting-payroll integration with automated tax compliance
- Intuitive interface and mobile app for on-the-go management
- Extensive third-party app ecosystem and robust reporting tools
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers required for advanced payroll and features
- Steeper learning curve for complex customizations
- Occasional sync delays with bank feeds during high volume
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses seeking an all-in-one, scalable solution for accounting and payroll with strong automation.
Pricing
Accounting plans start at $30/month (Simple Start) up to $200/month (Advanced); payroll add-on from $50/month + $6/employee (Core) to $130/month + $11/employee (Elite).
Gusto
specializedFull-service payroll, HR, and benefits platform that integrates seamlessly with accounting tools for small businesses.
Automatic tax filing and compliance across all 50 states with error guarantees
Gusto is a user-friendly payroll and HR platform tailored for small businesses, automating payroll processing, tax calculations, filings, and payments across all 50 states. It offers comprehensive HR tools including benefits administration, time tracking, onboarding, and employee self-service portals. While not a full accounting suite, it integrates seamlessly with tools like QuickBooks, Xero, and FreshBooks to handle payroll within accounting workflows.
Pros
- Automated multi-state payroll, tax filing, and compliance guarantees
- Integrated HR features like benefits, onboarding, and performance management
- Seamless integrations with major accounting software for streamlined workflows
Cons
- Limited native accounting tools like invoicing or expense tracking
- Pricing scales quickly with employee count and add-ons
- Advanced reporting requires higher-tier plans
Best For
Small businesses with 1-100 employees seeking an intuitive, all-in-one payroll and HR solution that integrates with existing accounting software.
Pricing
Starts at $40/month base + $6/employee for Simple plan; Plus at $80 + $12/employee; Premium custom; contractor-only from $35/month + $6/contractor.
Xero
specializedCloud accounting software with integrated payroll, bank reconciliation, and reporting features for small business owners.
Unlimited users with real-time multi-user access and bank auto-reconciliation
Xero is a cloud-based accounting software tailored for small businesses, providing comprehensive tools for invoicing, bank reconciliation, expense tracking, financial reporting, and integrated payroll processing in supported regions. It enables real-time collaboration with accountants and teams through unlimited users and mobile access. With thousands of app integrations, it scales effortlessly for growing businesses while automating routine tasks like bill payments and inventory management.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with strong mobile app for on-the-go access
- Unlimited users and excellent third-party integrations (over 1,000 apps)
- Automated bank feeds and real-time reporting for efficient reconciliation
Cons
- Payroll features limited to specific countries (e.g., not fully robust in the US)
- Higher-tier plans can get expensive for very small businesses
- Customer support primarily via email/chat, with limited phone options
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses in supported payroll regions seeking scalable cloud accounting with team collaboration.
Pricing
Starts at $15/month (Early plan) up to $78/month (Established); payroll add-on ~$5-10/employee/month depending on country.
ADP RUN
enterpriseScalable payroll and HR solution offering automated tax filing and compliance tools for small businesses.
Payroll tax filing guarantee with 100% accuracy and ADP covering penalties if errors occur
ADP RUN is a robust cloud-based payroll platform tailored for small businesses, providing automated payroll processing, tax calculations, filings, and compliance tools. It offers tiered plans with HR features like onboarding, benefits administration, and time tracking, plus seamless integrations with accounting software such as QuickBooks and Xero. Designed for scalability, it supports businesses from 1 to 50+ employees while ensuring adherence to federal, state, and local regulations.
Pros
- Comprehensive payroll and tax compliance with accuracy guarantee
- Scalable tiers that grow with your business
- Strong integrations with major accounting tools
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to budget alternatives
- Initial setup can require time and guidance
- Customer support response times vary
Best For
Small to mid-sized businesses (1-50 employees) needing reliable, compliant payroll with growth potential.
Pricing
Essential: $59/mo + $4/employee; Enhanced: $99/mo + $10/employee; Complete: $148/mo + $13/employee (billed annually; add-ons extra).
Paychex Flex
enterpriseIntegrated payroll, HR, and benefits management platform with robust reporting for small to mid-sized businesses.
AI-driven compliance engine for automated federal, state, and local tax calculations and filings
Paychex Flex is a cloud-based payroll and HR platform tailored for small to mid-sized businesses, offering automated payroll processing, tax filing, and compliance management. It integrates with accounting tools like QuickBooks and includes employee self-service, time tracking, benefits administration, and talent management features. This all-in-one solution helps streamline workforce operations while ensuring regulatory adherence.
Pros
- Robust payroll automation and multi-state tax compliance
- Seamless integrations with major accounting software
- Scalable HR tools including benefits and onboarding
Cons
- Higher cost structure with per-employee fees
- Steeper learning curve for non-HR users
- Custom quotes make pricing less transparent upfront
Best For
Small businesses with 10-100 employees needing integrated payroll, HR compliance, and growth scalability.
Pricing
Custom pricing typically starts at $80+/month base + $5/employee/month; volume discounts available.
Wave
specializedFree online accounting and payroll software with invoicing and receipt scanning for solopreneurs and small teams.
100% free unlimited invoicing and accounting with no user or invoice limits
Wave is a cloud-based accounting software tailored for small businesses, offering free tools for invoicing, expense tracking, financial reports, and receipt scanning. It includes an optional payroll add-on for US and Canadian users, handling direct deposits, tax filings, and compliance. Designed for simplicity, it helps solopreneurs and tiny teams manage finances without upfront costs.
Pros
- Completely free core accounting and unlimited invoicing
- Intuitive interface with mobile app support
- Seamless bank reconciliation and automated reports
Cons
- Payroll limited to US/Canada with extra fees
- No built-in inventory or project tracking
- Payment processing incurs transaction fees
Best For
Freelancers and micro-businesses seeking free, straightforward accounting with basic payroll needs.
Pricing
Free for accounting/invoicing; Payroll $20/mo base + $6/active employee (US), plus 2.9% + 30¢ per credit card transaction.
OnPay
specializedUser-friendly payroll software with unlimited payroll runs, expert support, and accounting integrations for small businesses.
Personal payroll specialist assigned to every customer for expert guidance and 100% accuracy guarantee
OnPay is a user-friendly payroll software tailored for small businesses, providing full-service payroll processing, automated tax filings, and benefits management. It excels in handling multi-state payroll, contractor payments, and employee self-service portals while integrating seamlessly with accounting tools like QuickBooks, Xero, and Gusto alternatives. With unlimited payroll runs and a focus on compliance, it streamlines operations without requiring in-house expertise.
Pros
- Exceptional customer support with dedicated payroll specialists
- Unlimited payroll runs at a flat rate
- Seamless integrations with major accounting software
Cons
- No native time tracking or full HR suite
- Relies heavily on integrations for advanced accounting
- Limited reporting customization compared to enterprise tools
Best For
Small businesses with 1-100 employees seeking simple, compliant payroll that pairs with existing accounting systems.
Pricing
$40/month base + $6 per employee/month; pay-as-you-go for benefits and no setup fees.
Patriot Software
specializedAffordable full-service payroll and basic accounting software with direct deposit and tax filing for small businesses.
Full Service Payroll, where Patriot handles all federal, state, and local tax filings and payments on your behalf
Patriot Software provides cloud-based payroll and basic HR solutions tailored for small businesses, offering both Basic Payroll for in-house processing and Full Service Payroll where the company handles tax filings and payments. It supports multi-state payroll, W-2/1099 generation, direct deposit, and integrates with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero. While strong in payroll compliance and simplicity, it lacks robust native accounting features like invoicing or advanced financial reporting.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with transparent per-employee fees
- Outstanding customer support with live US-based reps
- Seamless multi-state tax compliance and filings
Cons
- Limited built-in accounting tools beyond payroll
- No native mobile app for on-the-go access
- Basic reporting lacks depth for complex needs
Best For
Small businesses seeking simple, reliable payroll processing with excellent support and optional full-service tax handling.
Pricing
Basic Payroll starts at $17/month + $4 per employee; Full Service at $37/month + $4 per employee; free trial and setup available.
Rippling
enterpriseAll-in-one HR, payroll, and IT platform that automates employee onboarding and compliance for growing small businesses.
Automated employee lifecycle management that syncs payroll data instantly across HR, IT, and accounting systems
Rippling is an all-in-one workforce management platform that combines HR, payroll, IT, and benefits administration into a single system. For small businesses, it excels in automated payroll processing, tax compliance, and direct syncing with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero to streamline financial reconciliation. While not a dedicated accounting solution, its payroll accuracy and employee lifecycle automation make it a powerful option for integrated operations.
Pros
- Unified HR, payroll, and IT platform minimizes tool sprawl
- Automated compliance and payroll runs with global support in 100+ countries
- Seamless integrations with major accounting software for effortless data sync
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly and can be expensive for teams under 50 employees
- Steep initial setup and learning curve for non-HR experts
- Relies on integrations rather than native accounting tools
Best For
Growing small businesses needing an integrated HR-payroll solution with strong accounting syncs, rather than pure standalone payroll.
Pricing
Custom pricing starts at $8/employee/month for payroll basics, plus $35+/month base fee; full HR/IT suite requires quotes, no free plan.
SurePayroll
specializedSimple online payroll service with automated taxes and multi-state support designed for small business owners.
Automatic, error-free QuickBooks sync that posts payroll journals directly to accounting ledgers.
SurePayroll is an online payroll platform tailored for small businesses, providing essential services like payroll processing, automatic tax calculations and filings, direct deposit, and 1099 support. It offers seamless integration with QuickBooks and other accounting software, allowing users to sync payroll data effortlessly. The service emphasizes simplicity with quick setup and no long-term contracts, making it suitable for businesses with basic payroll needs.
Pros
- Intuitive interface for fast payroll runs
- Strong QuickBooks integration for seamless accounting sync
- Reliable tax filing and compliance guarantees
Cons
- Limited built-in HR and benefits administration tools
- No native time tracking (requires add-ons)
- Fewer advanced reporting options compared to competitors
Best For
Very small businesses (1-25 employees) with straightforward payroll needs and existing QuickBooks usage.
Pricing
Starts at $20/month + $5 per employee (full-service plan); reduced rates for self-service; no setup fees or contracts.
Conclusion
The top accounting and payroll tools reviewed cater to varied small business needs, with QuickBooks Online emerging as the leading choice—its comprehensive cloud integration of invoicing, expenses, and tax compliance sets it apart. While it stands out, Gusto and Xero also excel: Gusto for seamless HR and benefits integration, and Xero for robust cloud accounting and payroll features, offering strong alternatives for specific requirements.
Start with QuickBooks Online to experience its all-in-one capabilities, and discover why it remains the top tool for simplifying accounting, payroll, and growing your business.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison