Pay & planning
Work Schedule Comparison
Compare paid hours and simple estimated gross pay for two weekly schedules using hours per day, days per week, and rates. Free schedule comparison calculator for U.S. workers.
Know the numbers
How to use this calculator
For each schedule enter paid hours per day, workdays per week, and the hourly rate. Exclude unpaid breaks before entering the duration.
A worked example
Schedule A: 8 paid hours × 5 days at $20 = 40 hours and $800. Schedule B: 10 paid hours × 4 days at $20 = the same 40 hours and $800.
The calculation
Weekly minutes = daily paid minutes × workdays. Simple gross = weekly minutes ÷ 60 × hourly rate.
Before you use the result
Equal gross pay does not mean equal job value. Overtime, premiums, commuting time, benefits, taxes, and schedule preferences are excluded. Use the overtime estimator if relevant.
Calculation notes reviewed 2026-09-12 by Shift Ledger. Calculation methodology and corrections
A little guidance, when you need it
How to calculate work hours after an unpaid lunch
Step-by-step guide to calculate work hours after an unpaid lunch break. Separate time on site from paid time, with a worked example for U.S. hourly workers.
Read guide Field guide4×10 vs 3×12 vs 9/80 vs 5×8: What It Does to Your Paycheck
Compare compressed work schedules side by side. See weekly hours, annual hours, extra days off, and pay differences. Interactive compressed workweek calculator for U.S. workers.
Read guide