With the right payroll software, businesses can simplify employee payments, ensure tax compliance, and automate payroll processing. Our expert comparisons will help you find the best payroll service for your needs.
Cloud-based payroll management systems make paying employees fast and hassle-free, turning a once tedious process into an efficient, automated workflow.
Some providers even offer fully automated payroll runs, ensuring timely salary disbursement without manual effort. These solutions save time and reduce errors by streamlining payroll calculations, tax deductions, and direct deposits.
From enterprise payroll platforms to affordable payroll services for small businesses, there's an option for everyone looking to simplify payroll in 2025.
We’ve researched and reviewed top payroll software to help you make an informed decision. Below are our top 10 online payroll services, highlighting their best features and benefits.
Top 10 Best Payroll Software for 2025
- Gusto - Simplified Payroll, Benefits & HR for Growing Businesses
- ADP - Powering Your Business with Smarter Payroll & HR Solutions
- Quickbooks Payroll - Benefits for every budget
- Square - Payments you can rely on to run smarter
- Paychex - Your Partner in Payroll, HR, and Business Success
- Surepayroll - Simple, Fast & Automated Payroll
- OnPay - Payroll, HR & Benefits Made Easy
- Netchex - Solving Your Payroll & HR Challenges
- Paylocity - Effortless Payroll and HR for a Smarter Workforce
Gusto – Automated payroll, tax filings, and compliance made easy
ADP – Expert support team helping you focus on business growth
QuickBooks Payroll – Transparent Pricing with Robust Features at Competitive Rates
Square – Fast easy and secure payment processing
Paychex – Scalable Enterprise Solutions Tailored for Growing Businesses
SurePayroll – Streamline Payroll & Tax Management with Ease
OnPay – Comprehensive Payroll Solutions for Businesses of All Sizes
Netchex – Seamless Payroll & HR for a Smarter Workplace
Paylocity – Modern Payroll & HR Solutions for a Smarter Workforce
Powering over 300,000 small businesses nationwide, Gusto is dedicated to simplifying payroll, benefits, and HR solutions. With a mission to create a world where work enhances life, Gusto prioritizes automation, ease of use, and employee well-being, ensuring businesses can focus on growth while fostering a people-first workplace.
Pros
All-in-one payroll, benefits, and HR platform
HR tools for hiring & team management
Financial benefits: 401(k), HSA, FSA, 529
Cons
No PEO option
Manual processing for mandated deductions
ADP provides flexible payroll solutions with multiple bundle options, including customizable à la carte services. Designed for businesses of all sizes, ADP offers an affordable and scalable payroll system that adapts to your growing needs while integrating value-added services for enhanced efficiency.
Pros
50+ customizable payroll reports
Tax, HR, and Benefits management
Scalable payroll solutions for businesses of all sizes
Cons
No dedicated account representative
Limited payment options based on subscription
QuickBooks simplifies payroll management by handling local, state, and federal tax filings, along with automated paystubs and W-2s. With integrated benefits and workers' compensation, it provides a comprehensive payroll solution, allowing businesses to manage everything seamlessly in one platform.
Pros
Flexible payment schedules
Automated new hire reporting
Cons
Limited report selection
No card payment options
Square provides fast and secure payment processing for businesses of all sizes, offering easy setup, seamless transactions, and powerful POS solutions. With integrated tools for sales, inventory, and customer management, Square helps businesses streamline operations and grow efficiently.
Pros
No monthly fees or hidden charges
Supports online e-commerce operations
Ideal for small and medium-sized businesses
Cons
Tech support can be complex
Higher rates for keyed-in transactions
Paychex, a highly awarded HR leader, has earned accolades like the 2016 Tektonic Award and recognition as the World’s Most Ethical Company in 2017. Offering comprehensive HR solutions, including onsite support and outsourcing, Paychex continues to shape the industry. If you're exploring HR software, our in-depth review will help you evaluate its impact on your business.
Pros
50+ customizable payroll reports
Comprehensive Tax, HR, and Benefits management
Cons
No dedicated account representative
Limited payment options based on subscription
SurePayroll is a leading cloud-based payroll provider known for its accuracy, reliability, and compliance. Recognized with an A+ BBB rating, 4.9/5 stars on Google, and the 2019 Gold Stevie Award for Contact Center of the Year, SurePayroll is a trusted choice for businesses. Offering automated payroll, 6000+ tax compliance checks, employee management options, and a tax filing guarantee, it ensures fast, seamless, and worry-free payroll processing.
Pros
Same-day and expedited payroll options
Seamless automated payroll processing
Automated tax calculations and filings (federal, state, local)
Cons
Outdated user interface
Support available only 6 days a week
OnPay is a user-friendly payroll and HR platform designed to support small and growing businesses across all 50 states. With robust third-party integrations and add-ons, it caters to businesses in various industries, simplifying payroll processing, benefits administration, and HR management. Known for its intuitive interface and dedicated support team, OnPay ensures hassle-free setup and efficient payroll operations. Recognized as PCMag’s 2020 Editors’ Choice, it stands out as a trusted solution for businesses looking for reliability and ease of use.
Pros
Extensive third-party integrations
Flexible pay types and schedules
User-friendly interface and dashboard
Cons
Limited to U.S. operations
PTO management lacks intuitiveness
Netchex simplifies HR and payroll management with automated solutions for recruitment, onboarding, payroll, benefits, and tax compliance. Its dedicated customer support team ensures a seamless experience, providing step-by-step guidance when needed. While new features may take time to launch, the platform’s innovative approach to HR technology makes it a valuable investment for businesses seeking efficiency and reliability.
Pros
Flexible payroll options for all staff types
Comprehensive training resources
Mobile app for payroll access anywhere
Cons
No free trial or free version
Termination fees apply
Paylocity simplifies payroll and HR by tracking hours, managing taxes, ensuring compliance with wage laws, and processing accurate, on-time payments. It provides employees with a centralized platform to access timesheets, PTO, and leave requests. With dedicated support, you’ll have a personal representative available via call or email. Before selecting a plan, assess your business needs to ensure the software aligns with your requirements.
Pros
E-Verify streamlines onboarding
AI-powered insights for better decision-making
Seamless payment processing with website integration
Cons
No transparent pricing
Time-consuming setup with a steep learning curve