Patriot Payroll vs Bullhorn
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Patriot Payroll
Patriot Payroll is one of the most affordable full-service payroll solutions for small businesses. It offers basic payroll and full-service payroll tiers, with the full-service option handling all federal, state, and local tax filings. Patriot is popular with very small businesses and solo operators who want simple, reliable payroll without complex features.
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.
Pros
- ✓One of the most affordable payroll solutions available
- ✓Simple and easy to use with minimal learning curve
- ✓US-based customer support available by phone
- ✓Free trial available before committing
Cons
- ✗Limited features compared to full HR platforms
- ✗No mobile app for running payroll
- ✗Benefits administration not included
- ✗Less suitable for businesses with complex payroll 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
Patriot Payroll vs Bullhorn: Side by Side
| Factor | Patriot Payroll | Bullhorn |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Applicant Tracking |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $17/mo + $4/person | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution | Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Patriot Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing options
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee self-service portal
- ✓time and attendance add-on
- ✓HR software add-on
- ✓contractor payments
Bullhorn Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓CRM for recruiters
- ✓resume parsing
- ✓candidate sourcing
- ✓reporting and analytics
- ✓integrations
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform.
Best For
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Best For
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform
Also Consider
If neither Patriot Payroll nor Bullhorn is the right fit, Multiplier is worth evaluating.
Multiplier
Startups and SMBs hiring internationally on a budget
From $40/contractor/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Patriot Payroll and Bullhorn?
Patriot Payroll is best for very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Bullhorn is best for staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform.
Which is better, Patriot Payroll or Bullhorn?
Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform.
How much does Patriot Payroll cost?
Patriot Payroll starts at $17/mo + $4/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Bullhorn cost?
Visit Bullhorn website for current pricing.
Who should use Patriot Payroll?
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Who should use Bullhorn?
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform