activ8 Payroll vs PHPPayroll

activ8 Payroll is a paid, web-based SaaS platform for managing payroll data and processes across countries. It gives organizations oversight of payroll work across employee locations, with validated reports intended to support compliance and people-related decisions. Uploads pass through a four-step check against country-specific requirements. The eFile workflow supports secure upload, review, approval, access control, completion signatures and audit history. Automation, alerts and notifications help reduce repetitive work, while real-time tracking and reporting support processes aligned with international legislation. Integration choices include prebuilt, standard and custom connections for payroll, HRIS, HCM, ERP and HR systems; named partners include Workday, UKG Pro, UKG Ready, HiBob, Sage People and Cornerstone. activpayroll lists ISO 27001, SOC 1 Type 2, Cyber Essentials Plus and BACS approval. The service includes expert guidance, a support centre and Payroll Pulse feedback after payroll cycles. Pricing is on request.

PHPPayroll is a PHP and MySQL payroll and HR system for salary calculations, attendance tracking and leave management. It supports daily, weekly, task-based and monthly pay arrangements, as well as full-time and part-time employees. Listed modules include employee records, attendance, holidays and leave, payslips, biometric attendance, performance, assets, documents, expenses, work, grievances, recruitment and loans. Attendance can connect to biometric devices, RFID cards and mobile tracking, with real-time reports. Employees can update personal details, request leave, access payslips and raise grievances through a self-service portal. Payslips can show earnings and deductions for monthly, hourly or project-based pay. The cloud edition is vendor-hosted and includes 256-bit SSL encryption, technical support and onboarding; its plans include unlimited employees and payslips, with storage limits of 5 GB, 15 GB or 20 GB. The open-source edition provides source code for self-hosting and customization, but server security, permissions and backups remain under the customer's control. Cloud plans start at $9.99 per month.