Trello vs Zenefits (now TriNet)
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Trello
Trello is a visual project management tool based on the Kanban board methodology. It uses cards, lists, and boards to help teams organize tasks and workflows in a simple, visual way. Owned by Atlassian, Trello is one of the most widely used project management tools in the world, known for its simplicity and ease of use.
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
- ✓Extremely easy to learn and use — teams are productive within minutes
- ✓Generous free plan with unlimited cards
- ✓Familiar Kanban interface that most people already understand
- ✓Large library of power-ups and integrations
Cons
- ✗Limited project management features beyond Kanban boards
- ✗Not suitable for complex projects with dependencies
- ✗Reporting and analytics are basic
- ✗Timeline and calendar views require paid plan
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
Trello vs Zenefits (now TriNet): Side by Side
| Factor | Trello | 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 | Small teams and individuals wanting simple, visual Kanban-based task management | Small businesses focused on benefits administration |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Trello Features
- ✓Kanban boards
- ✓cards and checklists
- ✓power-ups and integrations
- ✓automation
- ✓timeline view
- ✓calendar view
- ✓mobile app
- ✓templates
Zenefits (now TriNet) Features
- ✓Benefits administration
- ✓payroll
- ✓time tracking
- ✓compliance
- ✓onboarding
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Trello if small teams and individuals wanting simple, visual kanban-based task management. Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration.
Best For
Small teams and individuals wanting simple, visual Kanban-based task management
Best For
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Also Consider
If neither Trello 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 Trello and Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Trello is best for small teams and individuals wanting simple, visual kanban-based task management. Zenefits (now TriNet) is best for small businesses focused on benefits administration.
Which is better, Trello or Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Choose Trello if small teams and individuals wanting simple, visual kanban-based task management. Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration.
How much does Trello cost?
Trello 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 Trello?
Small teams and individuals wanting simple, visual Kanban-based task management
Who should use Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Small businesses focused on benefits administration