Freshsales vs Zenefits (now TriNet)
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Freshsales
Freshsales is an AI-powered CRM platform designed to help sales teams attract, engage, and close deals faster. It offers built-in phone, email, and chat alongside a powerful AI assistant called Freddy. Freshsales is part of the Freshworks ecosystem and is known for its clean interface and strong automation tools.
Zenefits (now TriNet)
Zenefits was a cloud-based HR platform for small and mid-size businesses. In 2022, Zenefits was acquired by TriNet, one of the largest PEO providers in the US. The Zenefits platform has been integrated into TriNet's product suite. Businesses previously using Zenefits are now served under the TriNet brand.
Pros
- ✓Built-in phone and email saves money on integrations
- ✓Strong AI features including lead scoring and deal insights
- ✓Clean modern interface with good user adoption
- ✓Generous free plan available
Cons
- ✗Advanced features require higher tier plans
- ✗Reporting could be more customizable
- ✗Less brand recognition than HubSpot or Salesforce
Pros
- ✓Strong benefits administration with a wide carrier network
- ✓Easy employee self-service for benefits enrollment and changes
- ✓Affordable base pricing for small teams
- ✓Good compliance tools for ACA and other regulations
Cons
- ✗Payroll processing costs extra as an add-on
- ✗Customer support quality has been inconsistent historically
- ✗Less suitable for companies that need advanced HR or payroll features
Freshsales vs Zenefits (now TriNet): Side by Side
| Factor | Freshsales | Zenefits (now TriNet) |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | CRM Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Starting Price | Free | $8/employee/mo |
| Best For | SMBs wanting an all-in-one CRM with built-in communication tools | Small businesses focused on benefits administration |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Freshsales Features
- ✓Contact and lead management
- ✓built-in phone and email
- ✓AI lead scoring
- ✓deal management
- ✓workflow automation
- ✓reporting
- ✓mobile app
Zenefits (now TriNet) Features
- ✓Benefits administration
- ✓payroll
- ✓time tracking
- ✓compliance
- ✓onboarding
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Freshsales if smbs wanting an all-in-one crm with built-in communication tools. Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration.
Best For
SMBs wanting an all-in-one CRM with built-in communication tools
Best For
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Also Consider
If neither Freshsales nor Zenefits (now TriNet) is the right fit, Monday.com CRM is worth evaluating.
Monday.com CRM
Teams that want CRM and project management combined in one visual platform
From $12/user/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Freshsales and Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Freshsales is best for smbs wanting an all-in-one crm with built-in communication tools. Zenefits (now TriNet) is best for small businesses focused on benefits administration.
Which is better, Freshsales or Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Choose Freshsales if smbs wanting an all-in-one crm with built-in communication tools. Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration.
How much does Freshsales cost?
Freshsales starts at Free. Pricing model: Freemium.
How much does Zenefits (now TriNet) cost?
Zenefits (now TriNet) starts at $8/employee/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Freshsales?
SMBs wanting an all-in-one CRM with built-in communication tools
Who should use Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Small businesses focused on benefits administration