SoftwareDuel

SurePayroll vs Deputy

A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool

SurePayroll

SurePayroll is an online payroll service designed specifically for small businesses. It is owned by Paychex and offers full-service payroll processing, automatic tax filing, and employee self-service tools. SurePayroll is known for its simple setup and affordable pricing, making it a top choice for small business owners running payroll for the first time.

Paid pricing · Get Pricing →

Deputy

Deputy is a workforce management platform focused on employee scheduling, time tracking, and labor compliance. It helps businesses with shift-based workforces build schedules, manage leave, and track hours worked. Deputy integrates with major payroll providers to streamline the pay run process.

Paid pricing · Get Pricing →

Pros

  • Very easy to set up and use — ideal for first-time payroll users
  • Automatic federal, state, and local tax filing included
  • Affordable flat-rate pricing for small teams
  • Strong mobile app for running payroll on the go

Cons

  • Limited features for larger or more complex businesses
  • Customer support can be slow during peak periods
  • Less customizable than enterprise payroll solutions

Pros

  • Excellent scheduling tools with AI-powered shift recommendations
  • Strong labor compliance features for overtime and break rules
  • Good mobile app for employees to clock in, swap shifts, and request leave
  • Integrates with 30+ payroll providers

Cons

  • Limited core HR features beyond scheduling and time tracking
  • Not a full HRIS replacement
  • Reporting could be more customizable for complex workforce analytics

Our Take

Choose SurePayroll if small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll. Choose Deputy if businesses with hourly workers needing scheduling and time tracking.

Best For

Small businesses with under 100 employees looking for simple, affordable full-service payroll

Best For

Businesses with hourly workers needing scheduling and time tracking