Rippling Payroll vs 15Five
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Rippling Payroll
Rippling Payroll is the payroll module within the Rippling platform, which combines HR, IT, and finance management in one system. It offers global payroll capabilities, automatic tax filing, and deep integrations with the rest of the Rippling suite. Rippling Payroll is ideal for companies that want payroll tightly connected to their broader HR and IT operations.
15Five
15Five is a continuous performance management platform focused on weekly check-ins, OKRs, and employee engagement. It helps managers stay connected with their teams through structured feedback and recognition tools. 15Five is popular with remote and distributed teams that need async communication tools.
Pros
- ✓Deeply integrated with HR, IT, and finance in one platform
- ✓Global payroll available in 50+ countries
- ✓Automatic compliance updates for changing tax laws
- ✓Extremely powerful automation capabilities across all modules
Cons
- ✗Pricing requires a custom quote and can be expensive for small teams
- ✗Requires buying into the full Rippling platform for best value
- ✗Can be complex to set up without dedicated HR resources
Pros
- ✓Simple and intuitive weekly check-in format that drives adoption
- ✓Strong OKR and goal-setting tools
- ✓Excellent manager training and coaching resources
- ✓Good engagement survey tools with benchmarking
Cons
- ✗Limited HR functionality beyond performance and engagement
- ✗No payroll or benefits administration
- ✗Reporting could be more advanced for data-driven HR teams
Rippling Payroll vs 15Five: Side by Side
| Factor | Rippling Payroll | 15Five |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Custom pricing | $4/user/mo |
| Best For | Mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with HR and IT management | Companies focused on employee engagement and performance |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Rippling Payroll Features
- ✓Global payroll
- ✓automatic tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓contractor payments
- ✓PEO services
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓time tracking
- ✓expense management
15Five Features
- ✓Weekly check-ins
- ✓OKRs
- ✓performance reviews
- ✓engagement surveys
- ✓manager training
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Rippling Payroll if mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with hr and it management. Choose 15Five if companies focused on employee engagement and performance.
Best For
Mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with HR and IT management
Best For
Companies focused on employee engagement and performance
Also Consider
If neither Rippling Payroll nor 15Five 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 Rippling Payroll and 15Five?
Rippling Payroll is best for mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with hr and it management. 15Five is best for companies focused on employee engagement and performance.
Which is better, Rippling Payroll or 15Five?
Choose Rippling Payroll if mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with hr and it management. Choose 15Five if companies focused on employee engagement and performance.
How much does Rippling Payroll cost?
Rippling Payroll starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does 15Five cost?
15Five starts at $4/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Rippling Payroll?
Mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with HR and IT management
Who should use 15Five?
Companies focused on employee engagement and performance