Simple payroll systems compared – The 7 easiest-to-use payroll software programs in the UK

In today’s fast-paced business environment, managing payroll efficiently is crucial for companies of all sizes. The right payroll software can streamline processes, ensure accuracy, and comply with the latest tax regulations. For UK businesses seeking straightforward solutions, this article compares seven of the easiest payroll software programmes to use, making your payroll tasks less of a chore.

Simple and easy-to-use payroll software

Software	Pricing	Usability	Key Features	Target Business Size
BrightPay	Mid to high	User-friendly	Auto-enrolment, RTI submissions, flexible payment schedules	SMEs
QuickBooks Payroll	Part of QuickBooks subscription	Easy to use with QuickBooks	Integration with QuickBooks, direct HMRC submissions	Small businesses
Sage Payroll	Mid to high	Moderate complexity	Comprehensive support, scalability, direct HMRC link	All sizes
Xero Payroll	Part of Xero subscription	Easy for Xero users	Integrated with Xero, employee portal, direct HMRC reporting	Small to medium-sized
Moneysoft Payroll Manager	Cost-effective	Simple interface	RTI submissions, pension contributions, broad reporting	Small to medium-sized
Cintra Payroll	Mid-range	User-friendly	Direct HMRC filings, integrates with Zoho suite, employee portal	Small to medium-sized
Primo Payroll	Free tier available for small teams; mid-range for larger teams	Very user-friendly	RTI submissions, pension auto-enrolment, web-based	Accountants, payroll bureaux

1. BrightPay

BrightPay stands out for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features. It supports automatic enrolment for pensions, real-time information (RTI) submissions to HMRC, and offers flexibility with multiple payment schedules. Its accessibility for users, regardless of their payroll experience, makes it a favoured choice for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Pros:

• User-friendly interface suitable for all levels of payroll experience.
• Supports automatic enrolment for pensions and real-time information (RTI) submissions to HMRC.
• Flexible payment schedules and comprehensive features for SMEs.

Cons:

• May be considered costly for very small businesses with tight budgets.
• Some advanced features require time to learn and master.

Further information

Read our BrightPay review or visit the website.

2. QuickBooks Payroll

QuickBooks Payroll is designed for small businesses seeking integration with their accounting software. It offers an intuitive setup process, easy employee management, and direct submissions to HMRC. The software also provides valuable insights into payroll expenses, helping businesses manage their finances effectively.

Pros:

• Seamlessly integrates with QuickBooks accounting software.
• Simplified employee management and direct HMRC submissions.
• Provides insightful reporting on payroll expenses.

Cons:

• Requires subscription to QuickBooks, which might increase overall costs.
• Some features may be more tailored towards users already familiar with QuickBooks.

Further information

Read our QuickBooks Payroll review or visit the website.

3. Sage Payroll

Sage Payroll is a robust option for businesses of all sizes. Known for its comprehensive support and compliance features, it offers detailed reporting, pension auto-enrolment, and a direct link to HMRC. Its scalability makes it suitable for growing businesses looking to manage payroll efficiently.

Pros:

• Comprehensive support and compliance features suitable for businesses of all sizes.
• Scalable, making it ideal for growing businesses.
• Direct link to HMRC and detailed reporting capabilities.

Cons:

• The extensive range of features can make the initial setup complex.
• More expensive than some other options, particularly for small businesses.

Further information

Read our Sage Payroll review or visit the website.

4. Xero Payroll

Xero Payroll is integrated within the Xero accounting platform, offering a seamless experience for businesses already using Xero for their financial management. It features straightforward payroll processing, automatic tax calculations, and direct HMRC reporting. The employee portal is a highlight, allowing staff to view payslips and submit leave requests online.

Pros:

• Integrated within Xero accounting software, providing a unified platform.
• Automatic tax calculations and direct HMRC reporting.
• Employee portal for viewing payslips and submitting leave requests.

Cons:

• Best suited for users already within the Xero ecosystem.
• Limited customisation options for businesses with unique payroll requirements.

Further information

Read our Xero Payroll review or visit the website.

5. Moneysoft Payroll Manager

Moneysoft Payroll Manager is a cost-effective solution known for its simplicity and effectiveness. Suitable for small to medium-sized businesses, it handles RTI submissions, pension contributions, and offers a wide range of reporting tools. Its straightforward interface ensures a smooth payroll process.

Pros:

• Cost-effective solution for SMEs.
• Simple interface that facilitates a smooth payroll process.
• Comprehensive features including RTI submissions and pension contributions.

Cons:

• Aesthetically dated interface compared to newer software.
• Lacks the broader ecosystem integration found in competitors.

Further information

Read our Moneysoft Payroll Manager review or visit the website.

6. Cintra Payroll

Cintra Payroll is designed for small to medium-sized businesses. It offers direct HMRC filings, an intuitive interface, and comprehensive payroll features, including automatic payroll calculations, payslip generation, and an employee self-service portal.

Pros:

• Offers a Cintra API, providing good integration with other products.
• Direct HMRC filings and comprehensive payroll functionalities.
• Intuitive interface and employee self-service portal.

Cons:

• Best benefits are realised when used alongside other applications.
• May be less known and tested in the UK market compared to other software.

Further information

Read our Cintra Payroll review or visit the website.

7. Primo Payroll

Primo Payroll is a web-based payroll and auto-enrolment solution that stands out for its ease of use and affordability. It’s particularly well-suited for accountants and bureaux. Features include RTI submissions, pension auto-enrolment support, and a straightforward setup process. Primo also offers a free tier for companies with fewer than 10 employees, making it an attractive option for startups.

Pros:

• Web-based solution with a straightforward setup process.
• Offers a free tier for companies with fewer than 10 employees, ideal for startups.
• Supports RTI submissions and pension auto-enrolment.

Cons:

• Features may be more basic compared to more established providers.
• Support and resources might not be as extensive as larger competitors.

Further information

Read our Primo Payroll review or visit the website.