SoftwareDuel

Wave Payroll vs ProofHub

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.

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ProofHub

ProofHub is an all-in-one project management and team collaboration tool with a flat pricing model. It includes tasks, Gantt charts, time tracking, proofing, and team chat under one fixed price.

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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

  • Flat pricing regardless of user count
  • All-in-one including proofing tools
  • No per-user fees
  • Good for agencies and creative teams
  • Built-in time tracking

Cons

  • Interface less modern than competitors
  • Limited integration ecosystem
  • Flat pricing only worthwhile at larger team sizes
  • Reporting is basic

Our Take

Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose ProofHub if agencies and creative teams wanting an all-in-one tool with flat pricing and built-in proofing features.

Best For

Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll

Best For

Agencies and creative teams wanting an all-in-one tool with flat pricing and built-in proofing features