Bullhorn vs Clearbooks
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.
Clearbooks
Clearbooks is a UK-focused cloud accounting software designed for small businesses and sole traders. It covers invoicing, expenses, payroll, and VAT returns in a simple and affordable package.
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
- ✓Built specifically for UK accounting and VAT
- ✓Simple and easy to use
- ✓Affordable pricing
- ✓Good invoicing features
- ✓Solid MTD (Making Tax Digital) compliance
Cons
- ✗Limited outside UK market
- ✗Fewer integrations than QuickBooks or Xero
- ✗Less suitable for larger businesses
- ✗Support can be slow
Bullhorn vs Clearbooks: Side by Side
| Factor | Bullhorn | Clearbooks |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Applicant Tracking | Accounting Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform | UK small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong VAT and MTD compliance |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Bullhorn Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓CRM for recruiters
- ✓resume parsing
- ✓candidate sourcing
- ✓reporting and analytics
- ✓integrations
Clearbooks Features
- ✓Invoicing
- ✓bank reconciliation
- ✓expense tracking
- ✓VAT returns
- ✓payroll
- ✓financial reporting
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform. Choose Clearbooks if uk small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong vat and mtd compliance.
Best For
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform
Best For
UK small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong VAT and MTD compliance
Also Consider
If neither Bullhorn nor Clearbooks 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 Clearbooks?
Bullhorn is best for staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform. Clearbooks is best for uk small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong vat and mtd compliance.
Which is better, Bullhorn or Clearbooks?
Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform. Choose Clearbooks if uk small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong vat and mtd compliance.
How much does Bullhorn cost?
Visit Bullhorn website for current pricing.
How much does Clearbooks cost?
Visit Clearbooks website for current pricing.
Who should use Bullhorn?
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform
Who should use Clearbooks?
UK small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong VAT and MTD compliance