Top 10 Applicant Tracking Systems Ranked
By Amanda Reyes | Published: Current Review | Category: Applicant Tracking Solution
About Applicant Tracking Solution
Applicant tracking solutions (ATS) help businesses manage the entire recruitment process, from posting jobs and sourcing candidates to screening resumes and scheduling interviews. These platforms streamline hiring workflows and improve candidate experience.
Scoring Criteria
- → Core ATS Features
- → Ease of Use
- → Integration Ecosystem
- → Reporting & Analytics
- → Pricing & Value
- → Customer Support
The Best Applicant Tracking Solution
#10
Ashby
By Ashby, Inc.
A newer, data-driven ATS focused on powerful analytics, sourcing automation, and scheduling efficiency for scaling tech companies.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: Tech Startups, High-growth companies, Data-driven recruiting teams, Focus on efficiency & automation
Key Features
- ✓All-in-One Platform: Combines ATS, CRM, scheduling, and advanced analytics without separate modules.
- ✓Advanced Reporting & Analytics: Highly customizable dashboards and deep insights into every recruiting metric.
- ✓Scheduling Automation: Sophisticated tools to automate complex interview scheduling sequences.
- ✓Sourcing Automation: Tools to automate outreach sequences and track source effectiveness.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Standard
Contact Vendor
- Core ATS & CRM
- Basic Scheduling
- Standard Reporting
Limitations: Quote-based pricing, typically higher, Fewer advanced automation/analytics features
Pro
Contact Vendor
- All Standard features
- Advanced Scheduling Automation
- Advanced Reporting & Analytics
- Sourcing Automation
- API Access
Limitations: Quote-based pricing, typically higher
Pros
- + Exceptional reporting and analytics capabilities.
- + Powerful scheduling and sourcing automation.
- + Modern, fast interface.
- + All-in-one approach simplifies tooling.
Cons
- - Quote-based pricing can be expensive, targets well-funded companies.
- - Newer player compared to established giants.
- - No native mobile apps (web-focused).
- - Learning curve for advanced analytics.
Verdict
"A top choice for data-obsessed, high-growth (often tech) companies needing powerful automation and the absolute best-in-class recruiting analytics."
#9
Zoho Recruit
By Zoho Corporation
A versatile ATS and recruitment CRM that's part of the larger Zoho ecosystem, offering editions for both corporate HR and staffing agencies.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: SMBs, Staffing Agencies, Users of Zoho Ecosystem, Budget-Conscious Teams
Key Features
- ✓Separate Editions: Tailored versions for Internal HR departments and Staffing Agencies with specific features.
- ✓Integration with Zoho Suite: Seamless connection with Zoho CRM, People (HRIS), Mail, and other Zoho apps.
- ✓AI-Powered Candidate Matching: Zia, Zoho's AI assistant, helps source and match candidates.
- ✓Affordable Pricing & Free Plan: Offers competitive pricing tiers, including a free forever plan for basic needs.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.5 / 10.0)
Pricing
Free
Contact Vendor
- 1 Recruiter
- 1 Active Job
- Basic candidate management
- Email integration
Limitations: Very limited functionality and user count
Standard (Corporate HR)
$30.00 / Per User Per Month
- Resume parsing
- Job board posting
- Basic reporting
- Careers site
Limitations: Requires annual billing for listed price, Limited customization
Enterprise (Corporate HR)
$60.00 / Per User Per Month
- All Standard features
- Advanced analytics
- Workflow automation
- Talent pools
- AI features
Limitations: Requires annual billing for listed price
Pros
- + Very affordable pricing, including a free plan.
- + Excellent integration with other Zoho products.
- + Dedicated editions for corporate HR and staffing agencies.
- + Includes useful AI features.
Cons
- - Interface can feel cluttered or less intuitive than some competitors.
- - Customer support reviews are sometimes mixed.
- - Deepest features often require higher tiers.
- - Best value if already invested in the Zoho ecosystem.
Verdict
"A highly affordable and versatile ATS, particularly strong for businesses already using Zoho products or staffing agencies needing specialized features."
#8
Recruitee
By Recruitee B.V.
A collaborative hiring platform focused on teamwork, employer branding, and process automation, suitable for fast-growing companies.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: SMBs, Mid-Market, Collaborative Hiring, Employer Branding Focus
Key Features
- ✓Team Collaboration Tools: Features like team notes, evaluations, mentions, and hiring roles.
- ✓Careers Hub: Build customizable, branded career sites easily.
- ✓Workflow Automation: Automate repetitive tasks like sending emails or scheduling interviews.
- ✓Sourcing Tools: Browser extension and multi-posting capabilities.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.7 / 10.0)
Pricing
Launch
$222.00 / Annually
- Up to 5 active jobs
- Core ATS features
- Basic careers site
- Basic reporting
Limitations: Limited job slots, Limited automation, Requires annual billing for listed price
Scale
$374.00 / Annually
- Unlimited active jobs
- Advanced automation
- API access
- Advanced reporting
Limitations: Requires annual billing for listed price
Lead
Contact Vendor
- All Scale features
- Custom fields & pipelines
- SSO
- Dedicated CSM
Limitations: Quote-based pricing, Requires annual billing
Pros
- + Strong emphasis on team collaboration.
- + Easy-to-use career site builder.
- + Good workflow automation capabilities.
- + Modern and intuitive interface.
Cons
- - Lower-tier plans have significant limitations (job count).
- - Pricing requires annual commitment for best rates.
- - Reporting could be more robust.
- - Highest tier is quote-based.
Verdict
"A solid choice for growing companies that value team collaboration, employer branding, and recruiting automation in an easy-to-use package."
#7
SmartRecruiters
By SmartRecruiters Inc.
An enterprise-grade Talent Acquisition Suite designed for large, global organizations needing scalability and comprehensive features.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Enterprise, Global Organizations, High-Volume Hiring, Complex Recruiting Needs
Key Features
- ✓Talent Acquisition Suite: Includes ATS, CRM, Marketing, and Analytics modules for end-to-end talent acquisition.
- ✓SmartGlobal: Features designed for multi-national hiring, including compliance and localization.
- ✓Marketplace: Integrates with a wide array of HR technologies and services.
- ✓AI-Powered Assistance: AI features for screening, matching, and process automation.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
SmartStart
Contact Vendor
- Free tier for companies under 250 employees
- Up to 10 active jobs
- Basic ATS features
Limitations: Limited jobs and features, Not representative of main offering
Enterprise Suite
Contact Vendor
- Full TA Suite (ATS, CRM, etc.)
- Unlimited jobs
- Advanced analytics
- Global hiring capabilities
- Configurable workflows
Limitations: Quote-based pricing, Primarily targets large enterprises, Can be complex to implement and manage
Pros
- + Comprehensive suite covering all aspects of talent acquisition.
- + Highly scalable for large, global companies.
- + Strong integration capabilities.
- + Powerful analytics and AI features.
Cons
- - Primarily focused on enterprise clients; may be overkill/expensive for SMBs.
- - Can be complex and require significant setup/training.
- - Quote-based pricing lacks transparency.
- - Free/lower tiers are very limited compared to paid enterprise version.
Verdict
"A powerful, comprehensive Talent Acquisition Suite ideal for large, global enterprises with complex, high-volume hiring needs."
#6
BambooHR
By Bamboo HR LLC.
A leading HRIS platform with a built-in ATS module, ideal for SMBs wanting a unified system for HR and recruitment.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: SMBs, Mid-Market, Integrated HRIS + ATS, Focus on Employee Experience
Key Features
- ✓Integrated HRIS: Seamlessly connects recruiting data with employee records, onboarding, and other HR functions.
- ✓Simple ATS Functionality: Core ATS features like job posting, candidate tracking, and communication tools.
- ✓Onboarding Tools: Smooth transition from candidate to employee within the same system.
- ✓Mobile App: Manage HR and recruiting tasks via mobile devices.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.5 / 10.0)
Pricing
Essentials
Contact Vendor
- HRIS core features (employee records, time off)
- Basic ATS (optional add-on)
Limitations: Quote-based pricing (per employee/month), ATS is often an add-on cost, Limited ATS features compared to standalone solutions
Advantage
Contact Vendor
- All Essentials features
- Onboarding & Offboarding
- Advanced Reporting
- More robust ATS features (if added)
Limitations: Quote-based pricing (per employee/month), ATS module less powerful than dedicated systems
Pros
- + Excellent integration between HRIS and ATS.
- + Very user-friendly interface.
- + Strong focus on overall employee lifecycle.
- + Well-regarded customer support.
Cons
- - ATS features are less comprehensive than dedicated ATS platforms.
- - Can become expensive as employee count grows.
- - Reporting specific to recruiting may be less detailed.
- - Quote-based pricing lacks transparency.
Verdict
"Best for SMBs and mid-market companies looking for a unified HRIS and ATS platform with a focus on ease of use and the employee experience."
#5
JazzHR
By JazzHR
An affordable and feature-rich ATS designed specifically for SMBs, offering strong core recruiting functionalities.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: SMBs, Budget-Conscious Teams, Streamlined Hiring
Key Features
- ✓Syndicated Job Posting: Distributes job openings to numerous free and paid job boards.
- ✓Customizable Workflows: Tailor hiring stages and processes to fit specific needs.
- ✓Interview Scheduling & Guides: Tools to coordinate interviews and provide structured question sets.
- ✓Compliance Features: Includes tools to help manage EEO/OFCCP compliance.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing
Hero
$49.00 / Monthly
- 3 open jobs
- Job posting syndication
- Candidate management
- Basic reporting
Limitations: Limited number of open jobs, Requires annual billing
Plus
$239.00 / Monthly
- Unlimited open jobs
- Interview scheduling
- Assessments
- Workflow automation
Limitations: Requires annual billing
Pro
$359.00 / Monthly
- All Plus features
- Enhanced reporting
- E-signatures
- Offer management
- Compliance features
Limitations: Requires annual billing
Pros
- + Very competitive pricing for SMBs.
- + Solid set of core ATS features.
- + User-friendly interface.
- + Good job board distribution.
Cons
- - Lower tiers have significant limitations (e.g., job count).
- - Reporting and analytics less advanced than top-tier platforms.
- - Best pricing often requires annual commitment.
- - Fewer integrations compared to enterprise systems.
Verdict
"A top contender for SMBs seeking a cost-effective and capable ATS with all the essential recruiting tools."
#4
Breezy HR
By Breezy HR, Inc.
An intuitive and visually appealing ATS focusing on SMBs, known for its ease of use, drag-and-drop pipeline, and affordable pricing.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Startups, SMBs, Ease of Use Focus, Visual Workflow Management
Key Features
- ✓Visual Drag-and-Drop Pipeline: Easily move candidates through customizable hiring stages.
- ✓Candidate Scorecards: Standardized evaluation forms for consistent feedback.
- ✓Automated Stage Actions: Trigger emails, questionnaires, or tasks automatically when candidates move stages.
- ✓Free Plan Available: Offers a basic free tier for companies with minimal hiring needs.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing
Free
Contact Vendor
- 1 active position
- Basic ATS features
- Job board distribution
Limitations: Very limited features and job postings
Startup
$171.00 / Monthly
- Unlimited positions
- Candidate sourcing
- Basic reporting
- Email & Calendar integration
Limitations: Limited advanced features
Growth
$299.00 / Monthly
- All Startup features
- Multiple recruiting pipelines
- Automated reference checking
- Candidate comparison
Limitations: Some features require higher tiers
Business
$479.00 / Monthly
- All Growth features
- Advanced reporting
- Assessment integrations
- Talent pools
Limitations: Most expensive standard tier
Pros
- + Extremely easy to learn and use.
- + Visually appealing interface.
- + Affordable pricing plans, including a free option.
- + Good automation features for SMBs.
Cons
- - Reporting capabilities are less comprehensive than competitors.
- - Integration options are good but not as extensive as enterprise solutions.
- - May lack depth for complex enterprise hiring needs.
Verdict
"An excellent, user-friendly, and affordable ATS for startups and SMBs prioritizing ease of use and visual workflow management."
#3
Workable
By Workable Software Limited
A popular ATS known for its ease of use, global job board reach, and features catering to SMBs and mid-market companies.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: SMBs, Mid-Market, Global Hiring, Ease of Use Focus
Key Features
- ✓Broad Job Board Syndication: Posts jobs to over 200+ free and premium job boards globally.
- ✓AI Recruiter: Uses AI to source and suggest relevant candidates from a large database.
- ✓Mobile Apps: Fully functional mobile apps for recruiting on the go.
- ✓Interview Scheduling & Kits: Tools for coordinating interviews and standardizing feedback.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Starter
$149.00 / Monthly
- Up to 50 employees
- Core ATS features
- AI candidate suggestions
- 200+ job boards
Limitations: Limited active jobs, Basic reporting
Standard
$299.00 / Monthly
- All Starter features
- More active jobs
- Custom pipeline stages
- Assessments
- Advanced reporting
Limitations: Higher price point
Premier
$599.00 / Monthly
- All Standard features
- Even more active jobs
- Advanced integrations
- Dedicated account manager
Limitations: Pricing scales significantly
Pros
- + Very user-friendly interface.
- + Excellent job distribution reach.
- + AI sourcing features are helpful.
- + Transparent (though tiered) pricing for smaller plans.
Cons
- - Reporting features less robust than competitors like Greenhouse.
- - Pricing can escalate quickly with higher tiers or annual billing requirement for some features.
- - Some advanced workflow customization might be limited.
Verdict
"A great choice for SMBs and mid-market companies needing an easy-to-use ATS with strong job posting capabilities and helpful AI features."
#2
Lever
By Lever, Inc.
A modern ATS/CRM hybrid emphasizing candidate relationship management and proactive sourcing for companies of all sizes.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: SMBs, Mid-Market, Enterprise, Candidate Relationship Management (CRM), High-growth companies
Key Features
- ✓LeverTRM (Talent Relationship Management): Combines ATS and CRM features for nurturing passive candidates and building talent pools.
- ✓Visual Candidate Pipeline: Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for managing candidates through stages.
- ✓Nurture Campaigns: Automated email sequences to engage potential candidates over time.
- ✓Advanced Analytics Suite: Comprehensive reporting on sourcing, diversity, pipeline, and efficiency.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.7 / 10.0)
Pricing
LeverTRM
Contact Vendor
- Full ATS & CRM capabilities
- Sourcing tools
- Nurture campaigns
- Analytics
Limitations: Quote-based pricing, Can be more expensive than basic ATS options
LeverTRM for Enterprise
Contact Vendor
- All LeverTRM features
- Advanced security & compliance
- Customizable workflows
- Premium support
Limitations: Quote-based pricing
Pros
- + Excellent blend of ATS and CRM functionality.
- + Strong focus on candidate experience and relationship building.
- + Intuitive user interface.
- + Powerful analytics and reporting.
Cons
- - Quote-based pricing lacks transparency.
- - Can be costly, particularly for smaller businesses.
- - Some advanced features may require higher tiers.
Verdict
"Ideal for companies prioritizing candidate relationship management and proactive sourcing, offering a user-friendly interface combined with powerful features."
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#1
Greenhouse
By Greenhouse Software, Inc.
A comprehensive ATS focused on structured hiring for mid-market to enterprise companies, emphasizing collaboration and data-driven decisions.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Mid-Market, Enterprise, Structured Hiring, DE&I Focused Hiring
Key Features
- ✓Structured Hiring Process: Tools to define interview kits, scorecards, and processes for consistent evaluation.
- ✓Robust Reporting & Analytics: In-depth dashboards and reports on pipeline health, sourcing effectiveness, and time-to-hire.
- ✓Extensive Integration Marketplace: Connects with hundreds of HR tech tools, background check services, and assessment platforms.
- ✓Candidate Experience Tools: Features focused on maintaining communication and engagement with applicants.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.8 / 10.0)
Pricing
Core
Contact Vendor
- Essential ATS features
- Job posting
- Candidate management
- Basic reporting
Limitations: Quote-based pricing, Fewer advanced features
Pro
Contact Vendor
- All Core features
- Advanced reporting
- Multi-department support
- Custom workflows
Limitations: Quote-based pricing
Enterprise
Contact Vendor
- All Pro features
- Enhanced security
- Scalability features
- Dedicated support options
Limitations: Quote-based pricing, Geared towards large organizations
Pros
- + Powerful feature set for structured hiring.
- + Excellent reporting and analytics capabilities.
- + Vast integration marketplace.
- + Strong focus on collaboration and consistency.
Cons
- - Can be expensive, especially for smaller businesses.
- - Complexity might require a learning curve.
- - Pricing is not transparent (quote-based).
Verdict
"Best for mid-market and enterprise companies seeking a robust, data-driven ATS with extensive integrations and a focus on structured hiring."
Final Thoughts
The Applicant Tracking Solution market offers diverse options catering to different needs. Enterprise solutions like Greenhouse and Lever provide robust features and integrations, while platforms like Breezy HR and JazzHR offer excellent value and usability for SMBs. Newer entrants like Ashby push the boundaries of analytics and automation, often targeting high-growth tech companies.