Updated July 2026

QuickBooks Payroll vs Keka HR

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: Keka HR is more affordable for small teams starting out, while QuickBooks Payroll offers more advanced features for growing businesses. If you hire internationally, Keka HR is the clear winner.

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
Keka HR
Modern HR and payroll for Asia-Pacific businesses
G2 ★★★★☆ 4.6/5
Capterra ★★★★☆ 4.6/5
$9/mo + $9/employee Free trial

Feature Comparison

Feature QuickBooks Payroll Keka HR
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 $9/mo + $9/employee
Countries supported US IN, AE, SG, PH, MY, US
Best for Small Business, Quickbooks Users, 1-50 Employees Small Business, Medium Business, Asia-Pacific Companies, 50-5000 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

Keka HR

  • Strong for India and Asia-Pacific
  • Modern UI
  • Good performance management
  • Affordable
  • Less known in US/UK
  • Limited global payroll
  • Fewer integrations than US tools

Who Should Use Each?

Keka HR You're a small team on a tight budget and want the most affordable option with solid core features.
Keka HR User satisfaction matters most — Keka HR holds a higher G2 rating (4.6 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 Keka HR vs Gusto QuickBooks Payroll vs Deel Keka HR vs BambooHR ← All HR Tool Comparisons QuickBooks Payroll alternatives → Keka HR alternatives →

Ready to decide?

Try both and pick what works best for your team.

Try QuickBooks Payroll Free → Try Keka HR Free →

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is QuickBooks Payroll better than Keka HR?

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

How much does QuickBooks Payroll cost compared to Keka HR?

$45/mo + $6/employee vs $9/mo + $9/employee. Always check each vendor's official pricing page as rates may have changed.

Can I switch from QuickBooks Payroll to Keka HR?

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 Keka HR offer a free trial?

Yes, QuickBooks Payroll offers a free trial. Yes, Keka HR offers a free trial.

Which is better for international payroll — QuickBooks Payroll or Keka HR?

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