Paylocity vs Paycom: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Paylocity and Paycom comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Paylocity
Unify HR, Finance, & IT for simplified operations and empowered teams.
Best for you if:
- • Unifies HR, Finance, and IT functions on a single platform.
- • Automates tasks, provides real-time data, and improves decision-making.
Paycom
One powerful HR and payroll software that puts employee data at your command.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Single database for all HR and payroll functions.
- • AI-powered tools for instant data access and automated payroll.
| At a Glance |  Paylocity |  Paycom |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $5/moBase HR | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | HRIS | HRIS |
Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.3/5 |
Choose Paylocity or Paycom?
Choose Paylocity if
Unify HR, Finance, & IT for simplified operations and empowered teams.
- Good payroll platform
- HR features
- Good UI
Choose Paycom if
One powerful HR and payroll software that puts employee data at your command.
- Eliminates data reentry and app hopping due to single database.
- Significantly reduces time spent on payroll and time-off approvals.
- Empowers employees with self-service capabilities, improving data accuracy.
- You want a fully free tool (Paylocity requires payment)
| Feature | Paylocity | Paycom |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 5,172 reviews | ★4.3/5 2,710 reviews |
| Categories | HRISPayroll | HRISPayroll |
In-Depth Analysis
Paylocity
Unify HR, Finance, & IT for simplified operations and empowered teams.
Strengths
- +Good payroll platform
- +HR features
- +Good UI
- +Fair pricing
- +Good support
Weaknesses
- -Per-employee pricing
- -Learning curve
- -Implementation time
- -Feature gaps
- -Contract commitment
Key features
Paycom
One powerful HR and payroll software that puts employee data at your command.
Strengths
- +Eliminates data reentry and app hopping due to single database.
- +Significantly reduces time spent on payroll and time-off approvals.
- +Empowers employees with self-service capabilities, improving data accuracy.
- +Robust security measures with ISO and SOC certifications and Tier IV data centers.
- +Dedicated client service ensures personalized support and quick issue resolution.
Weaknesses
- -No free trial or freemium option mentioned.
- -Specific pricing details are not publicly available on the website.
Key features
Pricing: Paylocity vs Paycom
| Plan | Paylocity | Paycom |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $5 Base HR | Free Weekly Updates |
| Tier 2 | 22-32 Full Suite | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Paylocity pricing and Paycom pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Paycom is free. Paylocity is paid.
Go with: Paycom
Want the highest-rated option?
Paylocity: 4.5/5 (5,172 reviews). Paycom: 4.3/5 (2,710 reviews).
Go with: Paylocity
Value user reviews?
Paylocity: 5,172 reviews (4.5/5). Paycom: 2,710 reviews (4.3/5).
Go with: Paylocity
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Paylocity is paid. Paycom is free. Go with Paycom if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are hris tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Paylocity is rated higher: 4.5/5 vs 4.3/5.
Key Takeaways
Paylocity
- Higher user rating: 4.5/5 vs 4.3/5
- Larger review base (5,172 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
Paycom
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Paylocity is our pick. That said, Paycom is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paylocity or Paycom better?
Paylocity is rated in our evaluation. Paylocity is paid and Paycom is free.
What are Paylocity and Paycom used for?
Paylocity: Unify HR, Finance, & IT for simplified operations and empowered teams.. Paycom: One powerful HR and payroll software that puts employee data at your command..
What does Paylocity cost vs Paycom?
Paylocity is a paid tool. Paycom is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.