Bullhorn vs Rippling
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.
Rippling
Rippling is a unified workforce platform that combines HR, IT, and finance in a single system. It can provision employee devices, manage app access, run payroll, and handle benefits — all from one dashboard. Rippling is especially powerful for fast-growing companies that need automation across departments.
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
- ✓Truly all-in-one platform covering HR, IT, and finance
- ✓Powerful workflow automation reduces manual admin work
- ✓Excellent for remote and distributed teams
- ✓Deep integration library with 500+ apps
Cons
- ✗Complex setup process that requires dedicated implementation time
- ✗Can be overwhelming for small teams that only need basic HR
- ✗Pricing is modular and can add up quickly
Bullhorn vs Rippling: Side by Side
| Factor | Bullhorn | Rippling |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Applicant Tracking | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | $8/user/mo |
| Best For | Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform | Mid-size companies needing HR and IT together |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Bullhorn Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓CRM for recruiters
- ✓resume parsing
- ✓candidate sourcing
- ✓reporting and analytics
- ✓integrations
Rippling Features
- ✓Payroll
- ✓device management
- ✓app provisioning
- ✓benefits
- ✓compliance
- ✓reporting
Pricing Comparison
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Bullhorn if...
- →Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform
Our Take
Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform. Choose Rippling if mid-size companies needing hr and it together.
Best For
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform
Best For
Mid-size companies needing HR and IT together
Also Consider
If neither Bullhorn nor Rippling 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 Rippling?
Bullhorn is best for staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform. Rippling is best for mid-size companies needing hr and it together.
Which is better, Bullhorn or Rippling?
Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform. Choose Rippling if mid-size companies needing hr and it together.
How much does Bullhorn cost?
Visit Bullhorn website for current pricing.
How much does Rippling cost?
Rippling starts at $8/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Bullhorn?
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform
Who should use Rippling?
Mid-size companies needing HR and IT together