Zenefits (now TriNet) vs Basecamp
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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.
Basecamp
Basecamp is an opinionated project management and team communication tool that combines to-do lists, message boards, file storage, and scheduling in one place. It is known for its simplicity and flat pricing model. Basecamp is popular with agencies, remote teams, and small businesses that want to reduce tool sprawl.
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
Pros
- ✓Simple and opinionated — removes decision fatigue about how to set up projects
- ✓Flat per-user pricing with no feature tiers
- ✓Built-in client access makes it easy to collaborate externally
- ✓Strong async communication tools for remote teams
Cons
- ✗Lacks advanced features like Gantt charts and time tracking
- ✗No free plan available
- ✗Less flexible than tools like ClickUp or Monday.com
- ✗Can feel too simple for complex project portfolios
Zenefits (now TriNet) vs Basecamp: Side by Side
| Factor | Zenefits (now TriNet) | Basecamp |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | HR Software | Project Management |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $8/employee/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Best For | Small businesses focused on benefits administration | Remote teams and agencies wanting a simple all-in-one project and communication tool |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Zenefits (now TriNet) Features
- ✓Benefits administration
- ✓payroll
- ✓time tracking
- ✓compliance
- ✓onboarding
Basecamp Features
- ✓To-do lists
- ✓message boards
- ✓schedules
- ✓file storage
- ✓group chat
- ✓automatic check-ins
- ✓client access
- ✓Hill Charts progress tracking
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose Basecamp if remote teams and agencies wanting a simple all-in-one project and communication tool.
Best For
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Best For
Remote teams and agencies wanting a simple all-in-one project and communication tool
Also Consider
If neither Zenefits (now TriNet) nor Basecamp is the right fit, Justworks is worth evaluating.
Justworks
Small businesses wanting Fortune 500 benefits
From $59/employee/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Zenefits (now TriNet) and Basecamp?
Zenefits (now TriNet) is best for small businesses focused on benefits administration. Basecamp is best for remote teams and agencies wanting a simple all-in-one project and communication tool.
Which is better, Zenefits (now TriNet) or Basecamp?
Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose Basecamp if remote teams and agencies wanting a simple all-in-one project and communication tool.
How much does Zenefits (now TriNet) cost?
Zenefits (now TriNet) starts at $8/employee/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Basecamp cost?
Basecamp starts at $15/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Who should use Basecamp?
Remote teams and agencies wanting a simple all-in-one project and communication tool