Bullhorn vs Xero
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.
Xero
Xero is a cloud-based accounting platform popular with small businesses and accountants worldwide. It is known for its clean interface, strong bank reconciliation tools, and excellent integration ecosystem. Xero is particularly popular in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, and is considered the main alternative to QuickBooks for cloud-based accounting.
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
- ✓Beautiful and intuitive interface — one of the cleanest in accounting software
- ✓Unlimited users on all plans — no per-seat pricing
- ✓Excellent bank reconciliation with smart matching
- ✓Strong ecosystem of 1000+ integrations
Cons
- ✗Payroll requires a separate add-on in most regions
- ✗Inventory management is basic compared to QuickBooks
- ✗Reporting is less comprehensive than QuickBooks on lower tiers
- ✗Customer support is primarily online with no phone support
Bullhorn vs Xero: Side by Side
| Factor | Bullhorn | Xero |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Applicant Tracking | Accounting Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | $15/mo |
| Best For | Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform | Small businesses and accountants wanting a clean, modern alternative to QuickBooks |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Bullhorn Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓CRM for recruiters
- ✓resume parsing
- ✓candidate sourcing
- ✓reporting and analytics
- ✓integrations
Xero Features
- ✓Bookkeeping
- ✓invoicing
- ✓bank reconciliation
- ✓expense claims
- ✓payroll
- ✓financial reporting
- ✓inventory
- ✓project tracking
- ✓integrations
- ✓mobile app
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform. Choose Xero if small businesses and accountants wanting a clean, modern alternative to quickbooks.
Best For
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform
Best For
Small businesses and accountants wanting a clean, modern alternative to QuickBooks
Also Consider
If neither Bullhorn nor Xero 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 Xero?
Bullhorn is best for staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform. Xero is best for small businesses and accountants wanting a clean, modern alternative to quickbooks.
Which is better, Bullhorn or Xero?
Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform. Choose Xero if small businesses and accountants wanting a clean, modern alternative to quickbooks.
How much does Bullhorn cost?
Visit Bullhorn website for current pricing.
How much does Xero cost?
Xero starts at $15/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Bullhorn?
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform
Who should use Xero?
Small businesses and accountants wanting a clean, modern alternative to QuickBooks