Teamwork vs Zenefits (now TriNet)
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Teamwork
Teamwork is a project management platform built specifically for client-facing teams and agencies. It includes built-in time tracking, invoicing, and client portals that make it ideal for professional services businesses managing multiple client projects simultaneously. Teamwork helps agencies deliver projects on time and on budget while keeping clients informed.
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 specifically for agencies and client-facing teams
- ✓Built-in time tracking and invoicing saves money on separate tools
- ✓Client portal keeps clients informed without giving full system access
- ✓Strong resource and budget management features
Cons
- ✗Less suitable for internal team project management
- ✗Interface feels less modern than competitors
- ✗Some key features only on higher paid tiers
- ✗Can be complex to set up for new users
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
Teamwork vs Zenefits (now TriNet): Side by Side
| Factor | Teamwork | Zenefits (now TriNet) |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Project Management | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Starting Price | Free | $8/employee/mo |
| Best For | Agencies and professional services firms managing multiple client projects | Small businesses focused on benefits administration |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Teamwork Features
- ✓Project management
- ✓time tracking
- ✓invoicing
- ✓client portals
- ✓resource management
- ✓milestones
- ✓Gantt charts
- ✓budgets
- ✓collaboration tools
Zenefits (now TriNet) Features
- ✓Benefits administration
- ✓payroll
- ✓time tracking
- ✓compliance
- ✓onboarding
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Teamwork if agencies and professional services firms managing multiple client projects. Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration.
Best For
Agencies and professional services firms managing multiple client projects
Best For
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Also Consider
If neither Teamwork nor Zenefits (now TriNet) is the right fit, Wrike is worth evaluating.
Wrike
Marketing and creative teams needing enterprise project management with approvals and proofing
From Free
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Teamwork and Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Teamwork is best for agencies and professional services firms managing multiple client projects. Zenefits (now TriNet) is best for small businesses focused on benefits administration.
Which is better, Teamwork or Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Choose Teamwork if agencies and professional services firms managing multiple client projects. Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration.
How much does Teamwork cost?
Teamwork 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 Teamwork?
Agencies and professional services firms managing multiple client projects
Who should use Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Small businesses focused on benefits administration