⚡ Expert Review

Best Payroll Software

Last updated: March 2026 5 products reviewed 85 hours tested Mercilium Editorial Team
🏆 Editor's Top Pick ★★★★★
Gusto
★★★★★ 5.0/5

Gusto offers comprehensive payroll, benefits, and HR tools with an intuitive interface perfect for small to mid-sized businesses.

$40/mo + $6/employee/mo

Visit Gusto →

Quick Comparison: All 5 Options

ProductPriceRatingBest For

How We Tested

85Hours Tested
18Products Evaluated
100%Independent
Evaluation criteria:

    Sources: G2, Capterra, Trustpilot

    In-Depth Reviews

    #1
    Gusto

    Gusto

    Editor's Top Pick
    ★★★★★5.0/5

    Pros

    • ✓ Extremely intuitive and easy to use
    • ✓ Automated tax filing and compliance
    • ✓ Integrated benefits and HR tools
    • ✓ Excellent customer support

    Cons

    • ✗ Higher cost for larger teams
    • ✗ Limited international payroll options
    $40/mo + $6/employee/moVisit Gusto →
    #2
    QuickBooks Payroll

    QuickBooks Payroll

    Best for QuickBooks Users
    ★★★★☆4.8/5

    Pros

    • ✓ Deep integration with QuickBooks Accounting
    • ✓ Automated tax forms and filings
    • ✓ Multiple payroll tiers for different needs
    • ✓ Employee self-service portal

    Cons

    • ✗ Can be more expensive than competitors
    • ✗ Interface can feel cluttered for new users
    $45/mo + $6/employee/moVisit QuickBooks Payroll →
    #3
    ADP Run

    ADP Run

    Best for Growing Businesses
    ★★★★☆4.6/5

    Pros

    • ✓ Highly scalable with robust HR features
    • ✓ Dedicated support and compliance assistance
    • ✓ Extensive reporting capabilities
    • ✓ Trusted brand with decades of experience

    Cons

    • ✗ Pricing can be opaque
    • ✗ Interface can be less modern than newer tools
    Custom Quote (starts around $79/mo)Visit ADP Run →
    #4
    Paychex Flex

    Paychex Flex

    Most Comprehensive HR Suite
    ★★★★☆4.4/5

    Pros

    • ✓ Extensive HR and benefits administration
    • ✓ Dedicated payroll specialist support
    • ✓ Scalable for small to enterprise businesses
    • ✓ Robust time and attendance tracking

    Cons

    • ✗ Pricing can be complex and less transparent
    • ✗ Onboarding can be lengthy
    Custom Quote (starts around $60/mo)Visit Paychex Flex →
    #5
    OnPay

    OnPay

    Best Value
    ★★★★☆4.2/5

    Pros

    • ✓ Transparent, all-inclusive pricing
    • ✓ Highly-rated customer support
    • ✓ Handles all tax filings (federal, state, local)
    • ✓ Integrates with many accounting platforms

    Cons

    • ✗ Fewer advanced HR features than competitors
    • ✗ Reporting can be less customizable
    $40/mo + $6/employee/moVisit OnPay →

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Affiliate Disclosure: