Zenefits (now TriNet) vs Rippling Payroll
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
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.
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.
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
- ✓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
Our Take
Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose Rippling Payroll if mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with hr and it management.
Best For
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Best For
Mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with HR and IT management