Paylocity vs Zenefits
Paylocity and Zenefits are both popular options in this category. After extensive testing, Paylocity leads with a 8.4/10 rating, though the best choice depends on your specific needs.
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Quick Answer
Paylocity beats Zenefits for most users. It scores 8.4/10 vs 8/10 and modern, engaging interface. Choose Zenefits if you need clean, modern interface.
Paylocity
WinnerModern HCM with employee engagement focus
Starting from
Free
Zenefits
Streamlined HR with strong benefits focus
Starting from
$8/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| Starting Price | Free | $8/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Core HR | ||
| Payroll | Add-on | |
| Benefits Admin | ||
| Time Tracking | ||
| PTO Management | ||
| Talent | ||
| ATS/Recruiting | ||
| Onboarding | ||
| Performance Management | Add-on | |
| Features | ||
| Employee Self-Service | ||
| Compliance Tools | ||
| Mobile App | ||
| Reporting | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Paylocity
- Modern, engaging interface
- Strong social features
- Video messaging built-in
- Good employee experience
- Strong payroll
- Community feature unique
- Pricing can add up
- Implementation time
- Some learning curve
Zenefits
- Clean, modern interface
- Strong benefits enrollment
- Affordable for small teams
- Good mobile experience
- Easy employee onboarding
- Integrated time tracking
- Payroll costs extra
- Customer support mixed reviews
- Limited for larger companies
Key Difference
The key difference: Paylocity offers performance management while Zenefits provides compliance. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
Paylocity
Choose Paylocity if you prioritize modern, engaging interface, want to start with a free tier, or value strong social features.
Zenefits
Choose Zenefits if you prioritize clean, modern interface, or value strong benefits enrollment.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, Paylocity is our winner with a rating of 8.4/10 compared to Zenefits's 8/10. Paylocity stands out for its modern, engaging interface and strong social features. Paylocity also offers better value at its price point. However, Zenefits remains an excellent choice if clean, modern interface is your priority. There's no universally "wrong" choice here - both are quality options that serve their target audiences well.
Thinking of Switching?
Consider the migration effort before switching. Most services offer data export, but rebuilding workflows and configurations takes time. Evaluate whether the benefits outweigh the switching costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paylocity better than Zenefits?
Paylocity scores higher in our testing (8.4/10 vs 8/10). Paylocity excels at modern, engaging interface, while Zenefits is better for clean, modern interface.
Which is cheaper, Paylocity or Zenefits?
Paylocity is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $8.00/mo. Paylocity offers 100% savings.
Paylocity vs Zenefits: which should I choose?
Choose Paylocity if you prioritize modern, engaging interface. Choose Zenefits if you need clean, modern interface. Both are solid hr software options.
What's the main difference between Paylocity and Zenefits?
The main difference is Paylocity offers modern hcm with employee engagement focus, while Zenefits focuses on streamlined hr with strong benefits focus.