SoftwareDuel

Rippling Payroll vs 15Five

A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool

Rippling Payroll

Rippling Payroll is the payroll module within the Rippling platform, which combines HR, IT, and finance management in one system. It offers global payroll capabilities, automatic tax filing, and deep integrations with the rest of the Rippling suite. Rippling Payroll is ideal for companies that want payroll tightly connected to their broader HR and IT operations.

Paid pricing · Get Pricing →

15Five

15Five is a continuous performance management platform focused on weekly check-ins, OKRs, and employee engagement. It helps managers stay connected with their teams through structured feedback and recognition tools. 15Five is popular with remote and distributed teams that need async communication tools.

Paid pricing · Get Pricing →

Pros

  • Deeply integrated with HR, IT, and finance in one platform
  • Global payroll available in 50+ countries
  • Automatic compliance updates for changing tax laws
  • Extremely powerful automation capabilities across all modules

Cons

  • Pricing requires a custom quote and can be expensive for small teams
  • Requires buying into the full Rippling platform for best value
  • Can be complex to set up without dedicated HR resources

Pros

  • Simple and intuitive weekly check-in format that drives adoption
  • Strong OKR and goal-setting tools
  • Excellent manager training and coaching resources
  • Good engagement survey tools with benchmarking

Cons

  • Limited HR functionality beyond performance and engagement
  • No payroll or benefits administration
  • Reporting could be more advanced for data-driven HR teams

Our Take

Choose Rippling Payroll if mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with hr and it management. Choose 15Five if companies focused on employee engagement and performance.

Best For

Mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with HR and IT management

Best For

Companies focused on employee engagement and performance