Updated July 2026

QuickBooks Payroll vs Homebase

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

Based on 3,200 verified reviews · Last updated July 2026
Quick verdict: QuickBooks Payroll has transparent pricing starting at $45/month, while Homebase requires a custom quote — better for larger organizations.

At a Glance

QuickBooks Payroll
Payroll built right into QuickBooks accounting
G2 ★★★★☆ 4.2/5
Capterra ★★★★☆ 4.4/5
$45/mo + $6/employee Free trial
Homebase
Scheduling, time tracking and payroll for hourly workers
G2 ★★★★☆ 4.3/5
Capterra ★★★★☆ 4.6/5
Free plan available Free trial

Feature Comparison

Feature QuickBooks Payroll Homebase
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 $45/mo + $6/employee Free plan available
Countries supported US US, CA
Best for Small Business, Quickbooks Users, 1-50 Employees Small Business, Retail, Restaurants, Hourly Workers, 1-100 Employees

Pros & Cons

QuickBooks Payroll

  • Seamless QuickBooks integration
  • Automatic tax filings
  • Next-day direct deposit
  • Easy to use
  • US-only
  • Best only if you use QuickBooks
  • Limited HR features
  • Can be buggy

Homebase

  • Free plan available
  • Best for hourly/shift workers
  • Great scheduling
  • Easy mobile app
  • Limited for salaried employees
  • US and Canada only
  • Basic HR features

Who Should Use Each?

Homebase User satisfaction matters most — Homebase holds a higher G2 rating (4.3 vs 4.2).
QuickBooks Payroll You work with freelancers or contractors and need to pay them through the platform.

Related Comparisons

QuickBooks Payroll vs Rippling Homebase vs Gusto QuickBooks Payroll vs Deel Homebase vs BambooHR ← All HR Tool Comparisons QuickBooks Payroll alternatives → Homebase alternatives →

Ready to decide?

Try both and pick what works best for your team.

Try QuickBooks Payroll Free → Try Homebase Free →

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is QuickBooks Payroll better than Homebase?

It depends on your needs. QuickBooks Payroll is generally better for small business, QuickBooks users, while Homebase shines for small business, retail. Both have strong ratings on G2 and Capterra.

How much does QuickBooks Payroll cost compared to Homebase?

$45/mo + $6/employee vs Free plan available. Always check each vendor's official pricing page as rates may have changed.

Can I switch from QuickBooks Payroll to Homebase?

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 QuickBooks Payroll or Homebase offer a free trial?

Yes, QuickBooks Payroll offers a free trial. Yes, Homebase offers a free trial.

Which is better for international payroll — QuickBooks Payroll or Homebase?

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