Wave Payroll vs Height
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Wave Payroll
Wave Payroll is a simple payroll solution built into the Wave accounting ecosystem. It is designed for very small businesses that already use Wave for accounting and want an integrated payroll solution. Wave Payroll handles direct deposit, tax payments, and W-2s, making it a natural choice for businesses already in the Wave ecosystem.
Height
Height is a modern project management tool designed for product and engineering teams. It combines tasks, chat, and automation in a fast, keyboard-friendly interface with a focus on developer workflows.
Pros
- ✓Seamlessly integrates with Wave accounting — no manual data transfer needed
- ✓Very affordable pricing for micro-businesses
- ✓Simple interface with minimal setup required
- ✓Free Wave accounting included with subscription
Cons
- ✗Limited features compared to dedicated payroll platforms
- ✗Tax filing is only automatic in select states — manual filing required in others
- ✗No mobile payroll app
- ✗Not suitable for businesses with complex payroll needs
Pros
- ✓Fast and keyboard-friendly interface
- ✓Built-in team chat alongside tasks
- ✓Strong automation
- ✓Good for engineering workflows
- ✓Generous free plan
Cons
- ✗Smaller user base and community
- ✗Fewer integrations than established tools
- ✗Less suited for non-technical teams
- ✗Still maturing as a product
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Height if product and engineering teams wanting a fast modern tool that combines tasks and team communication.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Product and engineering teams wanting a fast modern tool that combines tasks and team communication