SoftwareDuel

Zenefits (now TriNet) vs Playroll

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.

PaidFrom $8/employee/mo
Get Pricing →

Playroll

Playroll is a global payroll and employer of record platform designed for modern companies hiring internationally. It handles employment contracts, local compliance, payroll processing, and benefits across multiple countries. Playroll offers competitive pricing and a streamlined onboarding experience for international hires.

PaidFrom $40/contractor/mo
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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

  • Competitive EOR pricing with transparent fee structure
  • Fast and streamlined international hiring process
  • Good country coverage with locally compliant contracts and benefits
  • Responsive onboarding support team

Cons

  • Newer platform with smaller brand recognition than established competitors
  • Support team is smaller which can affect response times at scale
  • HRIS features are limited beyond global payroll

Zenefits (now TriNet) vs Playroll: Side by Side

FactorZenefits (now TriNet)Playroll
User RatingN/AN/A
CategoryHR SoftwarePayroll Software
Pricing ModelPaidPaid
Starting Price$8/employee/mo$40/contractor/mo
Best ForSmall businesses focused on benefits administrationCompanies needing affordable global payroll and EOR
Our Pick

Zenefits (now TriNet) Features

  • Benefits administration
  • payroll
  • time tracking
  • compliance
  • onboarding

Playroll Features

  • EOR services
  • global payroll
  • contractor payments
  • benefits
  • compliance

Pricing Comparison

Zenefits (now TriNet)

Paid

Starts at $8/employee/mo

See full pricing →

Playroll

Paid

Starts at $40/contractor/mo

See full pricing →

Our Take

Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose Playroll if companies needing affordable global payroll and eor.

Best For

Small businesses focused on benefits administration

Best For

Companies needing affordable global payroll and EOR

Also Consider

If neither Zenefits (now TriNet) nor Playroll 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 Playroll?

Zenefits (now TriNet) is best for small businesses focused on benefits administration. Playroll is best for companies needing affordable global payroll and eor.

Which is better, Zenefits (now TriNet) or Playroll?

Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose Playroll if companies needing affordable global payroll and eor.

How much does Zenefits (now TriNet) cost?

Zenefits (now TriNet) starts at $8/employee/mo. Pricing model: Paid.

How much does Playroll cost?

Playroll starts at $40/contractor/mo. Pricing model: Paid.

Who should use Zenefits (now TriNet)?

Small businesses focused on benefits administration

Who should use Playroll?

Companies needing affordable global payroll and EOR