Bullhorn vs ADP Run
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Bullhorn
Bullhorn is the leading ATS and CRM platform built specifically for staffing and recruiting agencies. It combines applicant tracking with client relationship management in one purpose-built system.
ADP Run
ADP Run is a payroll and HR solution designed specifically for small businesses with 1-49 employees. It is powered by ADP, the world's largest payroll provider, giving small businesses access to enterprise-grade payroll processing and compliance tools. ADP Run offers multiple plan tiers from basic payroll to full HR suite depending on the business needs.
Pros
- ✓Purpose-built for staffing agencies
- ✓Strong CRM and client management
- ✓Excellent pipeline visibility
- ✓Deep integration with job boards
- ✓Good mobile app
Cons
- ✗Not ideal for in-house recruiting teams
- ✗Can be expensive
- ✗Interface has a learning curve
- ✗Customization requires technical knowledge
Pros
- ✓Backed by ADP's decades of payroll expertise and compliance knowledge
- ✓Scalable — can grow with your business to ADP Workforce Now
- ✓Strong mobile app for running payroll on the go
- ✓Extensive integration ecosystem
Cons
- ✗Pricing is not transparent and can be expensive compared to competitors
- ✗Customer service quality can be inconsistent
- ✗Upselling of additional services reported by customers
- ✗Interface is less modern than newer payroll tools
Bullhorn vs ADP Run: Side by Side
| Factor | Bullhorn | ADP Run |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Applicant Tracking | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | Custom pricing |
| Best For | Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform | Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Bullhorn Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓CRM for recruiters
- ✓resume parsing
- ✓candidate sourcing
- ✓reporting and analytics
- ✓integrations
ADP Run Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee onboarding
- ✓time tracking
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓workers compensation
- ✓HR support
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform. Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand.
Best For
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform
Best For
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand
Also Consider
If neither Bullhorn nor ADP Run is the right fit, Manatal is worth evaluating.
Manatal
Recruitment agencies and budget-conscious companies wanting AI-powered ATS at an affordable price
From $15/user/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Bullhorn and ADP Run?
Bullhorn is best for staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform. ADP Run is best for small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand.
Which is better, Bullhorn or ADP Run?
Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform. Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand.
How much does Bullhorn cost?
Visit Bullhorn website for current pricing.
How much does ADP Run cost?
ADP Run starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Bullhorn?
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform
Who should use ADP Run?
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand