Zenefits (now TriNet) vs Bullhorn
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.
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
- ✓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
- ✓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
Zenefits (now TriNet) vs Bullhorn: Side by Side
| Factor | Zenefits (now TriNet) | Bullhorn |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | HR Software | Applicant Tracking |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $8/employee/mo | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Small businesses focused on benefits administration | Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Zenefits (now TriNet) Features
- ✓Benefits administration
- ✓payroll
- ✓time tracking
- ✓compliance
- ✓onboarding
Bullhorn Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓CRM for recruiters
- ✓resume parsing
- ✓candidate sourcing
- ✓reporting and analytics
- ✓integrations
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform.
Best For
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Best For
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform
Also Consider
If neither Zenefits (now TriNet) nor Bullhorn 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 Bullhorn?
Zenefits (now TriNet) is best for small businesses focused on benefits administration. Bullhorn is best for staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform.
Which is better, Zenefits (now TriNet) or Bullhorn?
Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform.
How much does Zenefits (now TriNet) cost?
Zenefits (now TriNet) starts at $8/employee/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Bullhorn cost?
Visit Bullhorn website for current pricing.
Who should use Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Who should use Bullhorn?
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform