Updated July 2026

BambooHR vs OnPay

Which HR and payroll software is right for your business? We compared pricing, features, ratings, and real-world use cases.

Based on 3,400 verified reviews · Last updated July 2026
Quick verdict: BambooHR is more affordable for small teams starting out, while OnPay offers more advanced features for growing businesses. If you hire internationally, BambooHR is the clear winner.

At a Glance

BambooHR
HR software for small and medium businesses
G2 ★★★★☆ 4.5/5
Capterra ★★★★☆ 4.6/5
$10/mo + $10/employee Free trial
OnPay
Simple, accurate payroll for any type of business
G2 ★★★★☆ 4.8/5
Capterra ★★★★☆ 4.8/5
$40/mo + $6/employee Free trial

Feature Comparison

Feature BambooHR OnPay
Payroll processing ✓ ✓
Automated tax filing ✓ ✓
Direct deposit ✓ ✓
Benefits administration ✓ ✓
Time tracking ✓ ✗
Employee onboarding ✓ ✓
PTO management ✓ ✓
Contractor payments ✗ ✓
International payroll ✗ ✗
Mobile app ✓ ✓
API access ✓ ✓
Starting price $10/mo + $10/employee $40/mo + $6/employee
Countries supported US, CA, UK, AU US
Best for Small Business, Medium Business, 50-500 Employees Small Business, Nonprofits, Restaurants, 1-100 Employees

Pros & Cons

BambooHR

  • Beautiful UI
  • Strong onboarding tools
  • Good mobile app
  • E-signature built-in
  • Payroll is US-only add-on
  • Limited customization
  • No built-in recruiting

OnPay

  • Highest rated payroll for SMB
  • Transparent flat pricing
  • Excellent customer service
  • All taxes included
  • US-only
  • No built-in time tracking
  • Limited HR features
  • Smaller integration list

Who Should Use Each?

BambooHR You're a small team on a tight budget and want the most affordable option with solid core features.
OnPay User satisfaction matters most — OnPay holds a higher G2 rating (4.8 vs 4.5).
OnPay You work with freelancers or contractors and need to pay them through the platform.

Related Comparisons

BambooHR vs Rippling OnPay vs Gusto BambooHR vs Deel OnPay vs BambooHR ← All HR Tool Comparisons BambooHR alternatives → OnPay alternatives →

Ready to decide?

Try both and pick what works best for your team.

Try BambooHR Free → Try OnPay Free →

* Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission if you sign up through our links, at no extra cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is BambooHR better than OnPay?

It depends on your needs. BambooHR is generally better for small business, medium business, while OnPay shines for small business, nonprofits. Both have strong ratings on G2 and Capterra.

How much does BambooHR cost compared to OnPay?

$10/mo + $10/employee vs $40/mo + $6/employee. Always check each vendor's official pricing page as rates may have changed.

Can I switch from BambooHR to OnPay?

Yes, both platforms support data export. Most businesses complete a migration in 2–4 weeks. It's best to run both in parallel for one payroll cycle before fully switching.

Does BambooHR or OnPay offer a free trial?

Yes, BambooHR offers a free trial. Yes, OnPay offers a free trial.

Which is better for international payroll — BambooHR or OnPay?

Neither currently offers international payroll — consider Deel or Remote for global hiring.