QuickBooks Payroll vs Bullhorn
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
QuickBooks Payroll
QuickBooks Payroll is a full-service payroll solution deeply integrated with QuickBooks accounting. It automates tax calculations, filings, and direct deposits while syncing payroll data directly with your books.
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
- ✓Seamless QuickBooks accounting integration
- ✓Automatic tax filing and payments
- ✓Easy to use for existing QuickBooks users
- ✓Good benefits administration
- ✓Same-day direct deposit available
Cons
- ✗Best value only for QuickBooks accounting users
- ✗Can be expensive standalone
- ✗Limited HR features on lower tiers
- ✗Customer support quality varies
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
QuickBooks Payroll vs Bullhorn: Side by Side
| Factor | QuickBooks Payroll | Bullhorn |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Applicant Tracking |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Small businesses already using QuickBooks accounting wanting seamless payroll and bookkeeping integration | Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform |
| Our Pick | — | — |
QuickBooks Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee self-service
- ✓time tracking
- ✓reporting
Bullhorn Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓CRM for recruiters
- ✓resume parsing
- ✓candidate sourcing
- ✓reporting and analytics
- ✓integrations
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose QuickBooks Payroll if small businesses already using quickbooks accounting wanting seamless payroll and bookkeeping integration. Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform.
Best For
Small businesses already using QuickBooks accounting wanting seamless payroll and bookkeeping integration
Best For
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform
Also Consider
If neither QuickBooks 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 QuickBooks Payroll and Bullhorn?
QuickBooks Payroll is best for small businesses already using quickbooks accounting wanting seamless payroll and bookkeeping integration. Bullhorn is best for staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform.
Which is better, QuickBooks Payroll or Bullhorn?
Choose QuickBooks Payroll if small businesses already using quickbooks accounting wanting seamless payroll and bookkeeping integration. Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform.
How much does QuickBooks Payroll cost?
Visit QuickBooks Payroll website for current pricing.
How much does Bullhorn cost?
Visit Bullhorn website for current pricing.
Who should use QuickBooks Payroll?
Small businesses already using QuickBooks accounting wanting seamless payroll and bookkeeping integration
Who should use Bullhorn?
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform