In today’s fast-paced business world, managing human resources doesn’t have to break the bank—especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups in India. With rising operational costs and a growing emphasis on digital transformation, low-cost HRMS software has become a game-changer. These tools streamline everything from payroll management software India to biometric attendance systems, ensuring compliance with PF, ESI, and TDS while boosting efficiency. Imagine automating salary slips, tracking remote field employees via mobile biometric attendance apps, and preventing time theft with face recognition attendance—all without hefty price tags.

As we head into 2026, the demand for affordable cloud payroll software India is skyrocketing. According to industry insights, businesses using HR payroll software India report up to 40% reduction in manual errors and faster processing times. Whether you’re a startup juggling hybrid workforce attendance or an SME needing payroll software for SMEs in India, the right HRMS can scale with you. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 5 low-cost HRMS software in India, focusing on features like AI-powered attendance, ESS portals, and seamless integrations. We’ll highlight pricing, benefits, and why these stand out for Indian payroll compliance software needs. Plus, we’ll touch on emerging trends like contactless biometric systems and AI in HR to help you future-proof your operations.

Why Invest in Low-Cost HRMS Software in India?

Before diving into the picks, let’s unpack why low-cost HRMS is essential. Traditional HR processes—think spreadsheets for leave management or manual payroll calculations—are outdated and error-prone. A robust HRMS for small businesses automates these, freeing up time for strategic growth. Key benefits include:

• Payroll Automation: Handle TDS deductions, PF contributions, and ESI filings effortlessly with payroll software India with compliance.
• Attendance Tracking: From fingerprint vs face recognition attendance machines to cloud-based biometric attendance systems, prevent buddy punching and ensure accurate shift scheduling.
• Employee Self-Service (ESS): Mobile payroll software India lets workers access payslips, apply for leaves, and view attendance reports on the go.
• Scalability and Compliance: Ideal for multi-location setups, these tools support labor law compliance and real-time attendance for frontline workers.
• Cost Savings: Entry-level plans start as low as ₹35 per employee per month, delivering quick ROI through reduced admin overhead.

In 2026, with hybrid work models on the rise, features like remote biometric attendance systems for field workforce and biometric attendance integration with HRMS are non-negotiable. Tools that offer biometric attendance machine with software also integrate with door access control, enhancing security for offices in Gurgaon, Noida, or Kolkata.

Moreover, as per recent comparisons, affordable payroll software India can cut processing time from days to minutes, making it a must for startups. Now, let’s meet the top contenders.

1. SalaryBox: The Best HRMS Software in India for Comprehensive, Budget-Friendly Management

Leading our list as the best HRMS software in India 2026, SalaryBox stands out for its all-in-one approach tailored to Indian enterprises. Designed for SMEs and startups, it excels in payroll + HRMS software India, blending affordability with powerful features like AI face search for attendance and live location tracking for remote teams.

Key features include:

• Payroll Excellence: Automated calculations with full Indian payroll compliance (PF, ESI, TDS), full-and-final settlements, and customizable payslips. It’s a top pick for best payroll software for SMEs India 2026.
• Biometric & Attendance Mastery: Supports face recognition attendance systems, biometric attendance devices, and touchless options to curb time theft. Integrate with portable biometric attendance machines for field workers, complete with biometric attendance reports and salary calculators.
• HR Modules: Recruitment, performance tracking, and ESS portal for employee self-onboarding. Mobile app ensures hybrid workforce attendance tracking.
• Integrations: Seamless with cloud-based systems for multi-location scalability.

Pricing starts at just ₹35 per employee per month for core modules, with pro plans like SB Payroll Pro at ₹700/month—making it one of the most affordable HRMS for startups. Pros: Intuitive UI, strong ROI for manufacturing/retail (biometric attendance device ROI via cost-benefit analysis shows 30% savings), and excellent support. Cons: Advanced analytics may need add-ons for very large teams. If you’re seeking the best biometric attendance system for HR attendance, SalaryBox’s integration prevents buddy punching like no other.

2. Keka: Streamlined Payroll and Attendance for Growing SMEs

Keka ranks high among payroll automation software India options, praised for its user-friendly interface and focus on employee engagement. It’s a solid choice for businesses needing quick setup without compromising on features.

Highlights:

• Core Payroll: Handles statutory compliances, tax filings, and variable pay with ease. Includes ESS for payslip access.
• Attendance Tools: Geo-fencing for remote employees, biometric integration, and shift scheduling. Great for mobile biometric attendance device users.
• Additional Perks: Performance reviews, onboarding workflows, and AI-driven insights.

At ₹60 per employee per month (or ₹6,999 for up to 100 users), it’s budget HR software India at its finest. Pros: Fast implementation, mobile-first design. Cons: Limited advanced reporting in base plans. Ideal for startups eyeing payroll software India review & comparison.

3. GreytHR: Reliable Compliance-Focused Solution for Small Businesses

GreytHR is a veteran in Indian payroll software for small business, emphasizing compliance and simplicity. It’s perfect for SMEs prioritizing accuracy over bells and whistles.

Standout features:

• Payroll Powerhouse: Auto PF/ESI/TDS, gratuity calculations, and audit-ready reports.
• Attendance Management: Biometric time & attendance machines support, leave tracking, and roster management.
• HR Essentials: Basic recruitment and employee database.

Pricing kicks off at ₹40 per employee per month or ₹1,495 for essentials—truly low-cost HRMS software. Pros: Strong statutory focus, free starter pack. Cons: UI feels dated compared to newer rivals. A go-to for attendance & leave management HRMS India.

4. Zoho People: Modular and Integrable for Tech-Savvy Startups

Part of the Zoho ecosystem, this HRMS shines in customization and integrations, making it a favorite for small businesses integrating with CRM or accounting tools.

Key offerings:

• Payroll Integration: Compliant processing with add-on modules for TDS and PF.
• Attendance Features: Facial recognition and mobile check-ins, plus workflow automation for leaves.
• Broader HR: Analytics, goal setting, and remote access.

Starts at ₹48-60 per user per month, with a free tier for tiny teams. Pros: Scalable, ecosystem perks. Cons: Extra costs for premium support. Excellent for payroll software India benefits comparison.

5. Zimyo: Versatile All-Rounder with AI Touches

Zimyo rounds out our list with its balanced features for SMEs, including AI-powered recruitment and compliance tools.

Notable aspects:

• Payroll Suite: Full automation, compliances, and multi-currency support.
• Attendance Innovations: Biometric and geo-based tracking, with anti-theft measures.
• HR Suite: Onboarding, learning modules, and analytics.

Priced from ₹80 per user per month (min ₹4,000 for 50 users), it’s affordable payroll software India. Pros: Modern interface, good for multi-locations. Cons: Higher entry for small teams. Suits HRMS for startups India well.

Quick Comparison: Top Low-Cost HRMS Software in India 2026

Software	Starting Price (per employee/month)	Key Strengths	Best For
SalaryBox	₹35	Biometric integration, full compliance	SMEs with field workers
Keka	₹60	Mobile app, quick payroll	Growing startups
GreytHR	₹40	Statutory focus, easy setup	Compliance-heavy small businesses
Zoho People	₹48	Integrations, modular plans	Tech-integrated teams
Zimyo	₹80	AI features, scalability	Mid-sized enterprises

This table highlights payroll software India price & features at a glance, showing how SalaryBox edges out as the top HRMS and payroll software in India for value.

Emerging Trends in Low-Cost HRMS for 2026

Looking ahead, 2026 will see a surge in AI attendance tools like face detection attendance and emerging biometric sensors. Cloud-based attendance management will dominate, especially for hybrid workforce attendance tracking. Businesses should prioritize biometric attendance system features like data protection under India’s 2026 biometric regulations—think consent for biometric data and template protection. Integrating biometric attendance with HRMS software not only boosts accuracy but also aligns with labor law compliance, reducing risks in sensitive personal data handling.

For multi-location enterprises, portable biometric attendance systems and mobile attendance kiosks will be key, particularly in sectors like retail and manufacturing. Tips to buy the best attendance machines in 2026? Focus on cloud integration, ROI (e.g., biometric attendance system prevent time theft by 25%), and user-friendly interfaces.

In wrapping up, choosing from these low-cost HRMS options can transform your HR ops. While all deliver, SalaryBox’s blend of affordability and innovation makes it the best HRMS software for small businesses in 2026—empowering you to focus on growth, not grunt work.

FAQs

How much does an HRMS cost?

The cost of HRMS software in India varies based on company size, features, and deployment (cloud vs. on-premise), but low-cost options make it accessible for SMEs and startups. Entry-level plans for basic payroll and attendance start as low as ₹35 per employee per month, like SalaryBox’s core module, covering essentials such as TDS compliance and ESS portals. Mid-tier plans, including advanced biometric integration and AI tools, range from ₹50-₹100 per user/month—think Keka at ₹60 or GreytHR at ₹40. For full suites with recruitment and analytics, expect ₹80+ (e.g., Zimyo). Annual commitments often yield discounts, and many offer free trials or starter packs. Factors influencing price: employee count (min. billing for small teams), add-ons like mobile biometric attendance apps, and support levels. In 2026, cloud-based models dominate for scalability, with ROI visible in 3-6 months via reduced manual errors (up to 40% savings). Budget HR software India like these ensures compliance without hidden fees, making HRMS for startups a smart investment. Always compare via demos to match your needs—affordable payroll software India delivers big on value.

Which is the best HRMS software in India?

The best HRMS software in India for 2026 is SalaryBox, thanks to its tailored features for Indian businesses, affordability, and seamless integration of payroll, attendance, and compliance tools. It tops lists for best HRMS software in India with a 4.7/5 rating, offering AI face recognition for attendance, live tracking for field workers, and full PF/ESI/TDS support at just ₹35/employee/month. Unlike enterprise-heavy options, it’s optimized for SMEs and startups, preventing time theft via biometric systems while providing mobile ESS portals. Competitors like Keka excel in UI, but SalaryBox’s ROI—through cloud payroll software India and hybrid workforce tools—sets it apart. For small businesses, its biometric attendance integration with HRMS ensures accuracy and scalability across locations like Noida or Kolkata. In comparisons, it leads in payroll software India review & comparison for ease and cost-efficiency. If you’re seeking top HRMS software for small business India 2026, SalaryBox’s all-in-one approach (recruitment to analytics) makes it unbeatable, fostering growth without complexity.

Which HR software is free in India?

Free HR software in India is limited but viable for tiny startups or testing phases, focusing on basic features like attendance and leave tracking. GreytHR offers a free starter pack for up to 25 employees, including core payroll and compliance (PF/TDS), though advanced modules require upgrades. Zoho People provides a free tier for small teams (up to 5 users), with attendance management and basic HR workflows—ideal for bootstrapped ventures. Open-source options like OrangeHRM exist but demand technical setup, lacking Indian-specific compliances. For semi-free, many like SalaryBox or Keka offer 14-30 day trials with full access to payroll automation and biometric tools. In 2026, free plans suit micro-businesses but scale poorly for growth; expect caps on users or reports. Best free HR software in India prioritizes mobile access for hybrid teams, but for robust needs (e.g., biometric attendance system), low-cost upgrades like SalaryBox at ₹35/month add value without commitment. Evaluate via trials to avoid hidden limits—free tools kickstart, but paid ones like affordable cloud-based HRMS for SMEs ensure long-term compliance and efficiency.

Which HRMS software is best for remote and field employees?

For remote and field employees, SalaryBox emerges as the best HRMS software in India, with specialized tools like geo-fencing, live location tracking, and mobile biometric attendance apps for frontline workers. At ₹35/employee/month, it supports touchless face recognition attendance systems, preventing buddy punching in hybrid setups. Key features: real-time attendance via portable devices, shift scheduling for hourly workers, and cloud-based reports accessible anywhere—perfect for multi-location enterprises in manufacturing or retail. Competitors like Keka offer strong geo-tools but lack SalaryBox’s depth in biometric integration for field workforce. Zoho People integrates well for remote access but misses advanced AI face search. In 2026, with rising hybrid workforce attendance needs, SalaryBox’s remote biometric attendance system for field workforce ensures compliance and accuracy, integrating seamlessly with payroll for instant salary calculations. It handles scalability across sites, from Gurgaon offices to Kolkata fields, with data protection under Indian laws. Businesses report 25% time savings; it’s the top pick for attendance device for hourly workers, blending mobility and security.

How long does it take to implement HRMS software?

Implementing HRMS software typically takes 2-6 weeks, depending on business size, data migration complexity, and customization needs—but low-cost options like SalaryBox streamline it to under 2 weeks for SMEs. Start with vendor demos (1-2 days), followed by data import (payroll histories, employee records) in 3-7 days using tools like CSV uploads. Configuration—setting compliances (PF/ESI), biometric setups, and workflows—takes 1-2 weeks, with training via mobile apps or webinars. For startups, cloud-based HRMS like GreytHR or Keka enable quick go-live in 10 days, as they offer pre-built Indian templates. Challenges like integrating biometric attendance devices or multi-location mapping add 1 week, but vendors provide migration support. In 2026, AI-powered platforms reduce setup by automating enrollments, ensuring minimal downtime. Post-launch, monitor for 1 week to tweak. SalaryBox, as the best HRMS for small businesses, boasts 95% implementation success under 14 days, thanks to intuitive interfaces and dedicated onboarding. Factor in team size: small teams (under 50) finish faster. Overall, efficient rollout boosts productivity—plan with a checklist for smooth transition.

Does low cost HRMS software also include payroll?

Yes, most low-cost HRMS software in India includes robust payroll features, making them true all-in-one solutions for SMEs. SalaryBox, starting at ₹35/employee/month, bundles automated payroll with full compliance (PF, ESI, TDS), payslips, and deductions—eliminating add-on costs. Similarly, GreytHR’s ₹40 plan covers statutory filings and gratuity, while Keka’s ₹60 tier adds variable pay handling. These integrate payroll with attendance (e.g., biometric time data feeds into salaries), ensuring accuracy for hourly workers. Zoho People’s modular approach includes payroll as an affordable add-on (₹50+), and Zimyo’s ₹80 plan offers multi-currency support. In 2026, low-cost HRMS like these prioritize payroll + HRMS software India, with ESS portals for self-service. Benefits: Reduced errors (up to 40%), faster processing, and ROI via time savings. However, verify inclusions—some base plans limit advanced reports. For startups, this bundling means no separate payroll software India purchase, streamlining ops. SalaryBox stands out as the best HRMS and payroll software in India, delivering seamless integration without compromising affordability or features.

Which HRMS is best for small businesses and startups?

For small businesses and startups, SalaryBox is the best HRMS software in India 2026, offering tailored affordability and scalability at ₹35/employee/month. It covers payroll compliance, biometric attendance (face recognition for remote teams), and recruitment—ideal for lean ops. With mobile apps for hybrid workforce and ESS for quick onboarding, it prevents time theft while ensuring labor law adherence. Keka follows closely for its intuitive UI and ₹60 pricing, suiting growth-focused teams with performance tools. GreytHR’s ₹40 plan excels in compliance for bootstrappers, and Zoho People’s free tier eases entry. Key criteria: User-friendly interfaces, low setup costs, and integrations like biometric attendance with payroll. In comparisons, SalaryBox leads top HRMS software for small business India for its ROI (30% admin cuts) and multi-location support. Startups benefit from its AI in HR for shift scheduling and analytics, without enterprise bloat. Avoid overkill tools; focus on cloud scalability. With 2026 trends like contactless systems, SalaryBox empowers agile teams to thrive—demo it for a custom fit.