We evaluated 8 payroll platforms on tax compliance accuracy, onboarding speed, contractor handling, and HR/accounting integration depth. For quick shortlisting, start with ADP, Zoho, BambooHR, OnPay, and QuickBooks. We still include earlier top options like Gusto below so you can compare both modern picks and proven incumbents.
Marcus Rivera
Payroll & HR Software Lead · ex-ADP implementation specialist
Last reviewed: April 16, 2026 · Fact-checked by: James Liu
How we test →OnPay is our top practical pick for SMB payroll value, while ADP remains the strongest enterprise compliance option. QuickBooks Payroll is a natural fit for teams already using QuickBooks accounting.
Ranked by expert score across 12 criteria. All pricing verified April 16, 2026.
Best for time tracking + payroll for small businesses
out of 5
All platforms side by side. Pricing verified April 16, 2026.
| Platform | Score | Starting Price | Tax Filing | Contractor Support | Time Tracking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADP | 4.3/5 | Custom quote | ✓ Full-service | Add-on | |
| Zoho | 4.1/5 | From $19/mo | Limited | ||
| BambooHR | 4.2/5 | Custom quote | ✓ (add-on) | Add-on | |
| OnPay | 4.5/5 | $40 + $6/person | ✓ Full-service | ||
| QuickBooks Payroll | 4.1/5 | $45 + $5/user | Limited | ||
| Gusto | 4.4/5 | $40 + $6/person | ✓ Full-service | Add-on | |
| Deel | 4.7/5 | Free / $599 EOR | ✓ Auto | ||
| Papaya Global | 4.6/5 | Custom quote | ✓ Auto | ||
| Buddy Punch | 4.4/5 | $4.49/user/mo |
Answered by Marcus Rivera, Payroll & HR Software Lead.
Start with OnPay, Gusto, ADP, BambooHR, and QuickBooks Payroll for a balanced shortlist. OnPay is our top pick at 4.5/5 with transparent pricing and strong contractor handling. Gusto scores 4.4/5 with the easiest payroll UI and automated tax filing.
OnPay, Gusto, and ADP offer full-service automated federal, state, and local filing. QuickBooks Payroll supports automated filing on supported plans. Deel and Papaya automate tax filings across 150+ countries.
Deel covers 150+ countries with EOR, contractor management, and payroll in one platform. Papaya Global covers 160+ countries with enterprise-grade workforce analytics. Both are strong for international teams.