Introduction

We spend hundreds of hours researching the best HR and recruiting software so you don’t have to. We never take money from vendors during our research phase and rely heavily on practitioners and experts to help us recommend the right software. However we may earn a small fee if you click on vendor links on this page.

Learn More

BambooHR Versus the Competition

BambooHR has remained one of the top names in HR software for years. They have won numerous awards for customer support, ease of use, and good value. Their numerous features can be flexibly packaged according to your needs.

If you're ready to get a BambooHR demo, we suggest getting in touch for a look at the product and quote. Otherwise, read on!

Ratings

4.5

Ease of Use

Best For

Key Differentiator

Price

Custom Pricing

Free Trial

Yes

PROS

  • Flexible packaging and custom pricing is the way they roll. You can pick out one or two packages and pick other modules as add-ons based on your needs. 
  • Very simple and straightforward tool, easy to use.

CONS

  • Payroll is only available for US-based employees 
  • Customer support is only offered during US business hours.
  • Some modules like time tracking, performance management, and surveys are only available as add-ons.

BambooHR Alternatives:

Paylocity

Paylocity’s comprehensive and user-friendly HRIS offers a wide range of features to support the entire employee lifecycle. With its strong focus on automation, customization, and compliance, their platform is a great choice for businesses looking to optimize their HR operations.
Popularity Score
4.2 / 5
User Score
4.3 / 5
Product Score
4.1 / 5
Visit Website

Paylocity

Paylocity’s comprehensive and user-friendly HRIS offers a wide range of features to support the entire employee lifecycle. With its strong focus on automation, customization, and compliance, their platform is a great choice for businesses looking to optimize their HR operations.
Popularity Score
4.2 / 5
User Score
4.3 / 5
Product Score
4.1 / 5
Learn More

BambooHR

BambooHR has been one of the go-to HR software for SMBs for years: It comes with stellar customer support, is easy to use, and gives companies some flexibility in purchasing the modules they want.
Popularity Score
4.5 / 5
User Score
4.5 / 5
Product Score
4.4 / 5
Visit Website

BambooHR

BambooHR has been one of the go-to HR software for SMBs for years: It comes with stellar customer support, is easy to use, and gives companies some flexibility in purchasing the modules they want.
Popularity Score
4.5 / 5
User Score
4.5 / 5
Product Score
4.4 / 5
Learn More

HiBob

Bob is a global platform that can streamline pretty much everything an HR department needs to do, in a highly customizable manner. It’s particularly well-suited for small and midsize companies, including those based in the US and UK, that need flexibility as they grow and manage global operations.
Popularity Score
4.5 / 5
User Score
4.4 / 5
Product Score
4.3 / 5
Visit Website

HiBob

Bob is a global platform that can streamline pretty much everything an HR department needs to do, in a highly customizable manner. It’s particularly well-suited for small and midsize companies, including those based in the US and UK, that need flexibility as they grow and manage global operations.
Popularity Score
4.5 / 5
User Score
4.4 / 5
Product Score
4.3 / 5
Learn More

Deel

Deel is a fantastic (did we mention free?) HRIS for remote and international teams that need a way to compensate their employees, and a system for record.
Popularity Score
4.4 / 5
User Score
4.6 / 5
Product Score
4.5 / 5
Visit Website

Deel

Deel is a fantastic (did we mention free?) HRIS for remote and international teams that need a way to compensate their employees, and a system for record.
Popularity Score
4.4 / 5
User Score
4.6 / 5
Product Score
4.5 / 5
Learn More

APS

APS has nearly 3 decades of experience providing payroll and attendance services to U.S. SMBs and also offers core HR for those who prefer a one-stop suite. Our favorite about this vendor, though, is their support. They’re easy to work with, attentive, and have solid experience in service-based industries.
Popularity Score
4.1 / 5
User Score
4.5 / 5
Product Score
4.4 / 5
Visit Website

APS

APS has nearly 3 decades of experience providing payroll and attendance services to U.S. SMBs and also offers core HR for those who prefer a one-stop suite. Our favorite about this vendor, though, is their support. They’re easy to work with, attentive, and have solid experience in service-based industries.
Popularity Score
4.1 / 5
User Score
4.5 / 5
Product Score
4.4 / 5
Learn More

Need Help? Talk to an HR Software Advisor!

Get 1:1 help from an HR Software Advisor
Save time with recommendations in less than 20 minutes
Save up to 30% with our pricing insights

Tell us more about your company & an HR Software Advisor will help you find the right software

Phil Strazzulla
HR Tech Expert, Harvard MBA, Software Enthusiast

Need Help? Get Custom Recommendations for Best HRIS Systems

Talk to An Advisor
Over 3 million HR leaders trust our advice

BambooHR Review

BambooHR tries to accommodate one or another version of their technology to fit your business. Their HR platform spans across the employee lifecycle as they have tons of other functionalities (like a full ATS or a performance management module) in addition to the core HRIS offer. 

They do offer the core HR part as a stand-alone product. The way they package features can be flexible. For instance, they have a small business package called Essentials. 

This package covers all the HR Management features like employee records, benefit tracking, standard reporting, document storage and more. It also has the employee self-service module, which is where workers can manage their time off, consult the employee directory and org chart, see a company calendar, and do all this from either the desktop version or the mobile app. 

Further, Modules like payroll, time tracking, and performance management are offered as add-ons. If you need more, you can opt for the Advantage package. This plan includes onboarding and offboarding features, the Applicant Tracking System, advanced reporting, company branding, access to the open API, satisfaction surveys, and much more.

The flexibility of building out your plan like this is part of what keeps drawing one HR team after another to the tool. Arguably, it’s also what makes BambooHR one of the most popular HR software products of all time. 

The product itself is fairly easy to use and figure out on your own. It’s one of the most simple tools to navigate that packs so many features. At SSR, we’ve demoed the tool, tried it for free, and even worked at companies where it was the HRIS of choice. We can say it’s rare to have to consult any help articles in order to make use of the tool. You just log in, do what you have to do, and trust that your colleagues will be notified.

Take the process of requesting time off, for instance. A worker would log in, send the request to their manager, and the manager gets an email notification. Once approved or rejected, the worker gets an email notification as well and the company calendar is updated accordingly. There’s no need for the worker to log back into the tool. 

Lastly, BambooHR also have numerous amenities like an app marketplace of HR/recruiting vendors that integrate with their system, an HR glossary, and host HR events on occasion.

What users think of BambooHR

Reviewer's Rating
8/10

We use BambooHR to track employee evaluations, reviews, expired credentials, birthday and anniversary messages. It supports both mass and individual email communications. We use it to log notes, promotions, and track pay increases or status changes.

The system helps us run various reports, especially during hurricane season. We also categorize departments based on reporting structures or shift assignments.

What do you like about this tool?

Reports can be customized to fit specific needs. BambooHR shows when candidates or employees have viewed emails, which is helpful when they claim otherwise. It provides tracking for performance reviews.

Why did your organization buy this tool, and how long have you used it for?

The company I have a contract with did not have an ATS and was using Excel, which is outdated for tracking and consolidating information. I was tasked with researching and finding a solution that would work for a small company and fit our budget and needs.

I implemented BambooHR with the representative and have been using it for over four years. The primary reason we needed it was to track all candidates and create historical data, which is also required by law. We also use it to acknowledge birthdays, track training courses (in the healthcare field), complete 90-day probation evaluations, and monitor one-year anniversaries.

Additionally, we run reports for various departments. One of the most useful features is the ability to email and respond directly to candidates without copying and pasting results into Excel. A helpful bonus is the ability to see when candidates or employees open emails.

What do you dislike about this tool?

Many extra features are expensive. Sometimes, you must schedule a call or meeting to receive clear answers. Some reports are not configured to pull exactly what you need or lack sufficient options.

How is this tool different than their competitors?

The pricing works for us—BambooHR meets our needs on a small scale. We operate two different companies and were not able to nest them under the same system, even though they are similar.

What Instructions should people think about when buying this type of tool?

Add-ons are billed separately. After implementation, someone within the company needs to become the expert on the system. The implementation period was quick and somewhat rushed.

How has this tool changed or evolved over time to meet users needs?

They have added new features that are either free or included in the selected package, which is a plus. They also offer many tutorials and a self-help support page.

What specific type of user or organization is this tool very good for?

BambooHR is a good fit for small businesses that do not require extensive customization or frequent large-scale changes.

What specific type of user or organization would this tool not be a good fit for?

BambooHR may not suit very large enterprises with multiple users or businesses under one system.

Reviewer's Rating
10/10

BambooHR supports the entire employment lifecycle. I use it to onboard employees, send important announcements, review performance, send out engagement surveys, run payroll, generate reports, share files and resources with employees, and offboard employees.

I use BambooHR almost daily to update employee information, track anniversaries and birthdays, and run reports. I also use it for bi-weekly payroll. I appreciate how easy BambooHR is to use and maintain.

What do you like about this tool?

I like that BambooHR is user-friendly. It offers good value for the money. It includes strong workflows and automation features.

Why did your organization buy this tool, and how long have you used it for?

My clients purchased BambooHR, and I use it daily as I support them with system management and general human resources. They needed a centralized place to store all people data and manage payroll. They also required an automated onboarding process with checklists and reminders.

I have used BambooHR for eight years, and I appreciate how user-friendly it is. BambooHR has allowed my clients to report on their dispersed workforces and share important documents and resources with employees within one system. It has also greatly improved both onboarding and offboarding.

What do you dislike about this tool?

Some integrations could be improved (e.g., enabling two-way data syncing rather than just one-way). Built-in scheduling functionality would be a helpful addition. I also recall the initial implementation being relatively expensive.

How is this tool different than their competitors?

BambooHR is one of the most user-friendly tools in its category. You do not need to be an expert or complete extensive training to use it effectively. Training is available, though, for those who prefer structured learning over hands-on experience.

What Instructions should people think about when buying this type of tool?

Buyers should consider how many employees they have and whether they are planning for rapid growth. They should assess their onboarding and payroll needs. BambooHR is a good fit for small to medium-sized businesses but may not be ideal for large enterprises.

How has this tool changed or evolved over time to meet users needs?

BambooHR added payroll functionality a few years ago, which was a valuable improvement.

What specific type of user or organization is this tool very good for?

BambooHR works well for small to mid-sized businesses.

What specific type of user or organization would this tool not be a good fit for?

BambooHR is not well suited for large enterprise businesses.

Reviewer's Rating
7/10

I frequently used the hiring and onboarding workflows. I used the system to post jobs, track candidates, and coordinate with hiring managers. It was helpful that hiring managers could leave feedback on candidates directly in the platform.

Tracking candidate progress through hiring stages was simple and transparent. Interview scheduling was streamlined with calendar sync capabilities. Email templates also supported quick follow-ups and added efficiency to the recruitment process.

What do you like about this tool?
  • BambooHR automates many tedious HR tasks, saving time for higher-value work.
  • The system supports seamless collaboration across departments, keeping everyone aligned.
  • The onboarding experience for new hires is smooth and creates a welcoming impression.
Why did your organization buy this tool, and how long have you used it for?

At the time, the organization was experiencing challenges with recruitment and was using an outdated HRIS. They adopted BambooHR, which was extremely helpful due to its built-in ATS. This enabled faster and more streamlined recruitment processes.

Over time, the organization transitioned away from the previous HRIS entirely, as BambooHR proved to be an effective all-in-one solution. It handled several key HR functions efficiently, which added value across the organization.

What do you dislike about this tool?
  • More customization options would be beneficial, as there are limitations on the number of workflows that can be created.
  • The ATS is fairly basic and lacks features like resume screening, which is a drawback.
  • Pricing became a concern as the organization grew—while manageable at first, costs increased significantly with scale.
How is this tool different than their competitors?

BambooHR is a strong option for small to mid-sized businesses that don't require complex systems. The simplicity and ease of use make it accessible and easy to adopt.

What Instructions should people think about when buying this type of tool?

Scalability and customization are two important factors to consider. For small businesses needing a basic, user-friendly system, BambooHR is a great option that’s cost-effective and easy to learn.

How has this tool changed or evolved over time to meet users needs?

I am unsure, as I have not used BambooHR recently.

What specific type of user or organization is this tool very good for?

BambooHR is well suited for small organizations and users with limited HRIS experience.

What specific type of user or organization would this tool not be a good fit for?

BambooHR may not be suitable for large organizations with complex HR processes or those requiring advanced functionality for experienced HR professionals.

Reviewer's Rating
9/10

We use BambooHR every day. I use it to process payroll, make changes to employee profiles (personal and employment information), and review timesheets and time-off requests. Our employees use it to clock their hours, check their pay stubs, and request time off. We also use BambooHR for hiring purposes, though not on a weekly basis.

What do you like about this tool?
  • It has a modern, user-friendly interface that is very intuitive.
  • Every section of BambooHR is customizable.
  • It consolidates payroll, HR, benefits, and performance management in one place.
Why did your organization buy this tool, and how long have you used it for?

We were using Heartland Payroll Solutions when I joined the team, which was a terrible platform. BambooHR came highly recommended by our new CRO at the time, who had used it before. We wanted a more user-friendly system for both administrators and employees that would also allow us to pay contractors and process all company benefit packages. We also liked that BambooHR offers hiring and performance review options.

What do you dislike about this tool?
  • It doesn't allow you to add a fixed semi-monthly amount for contractors who are not charging hourly rates, requiring you to create an hourly rate and manually adjust hours when running payroll.
  • We've had minor issues with pay periods when a weekend and holiday fall together, causing the system to prompt us to run payroll before the pay period has ended. While there are workarounds, it's stressful and inconvenient.
  • Employees have reported that the time-tracking feature on the BambooHR app doesn't always work correctly, requiring me to adjust their hours. I have brought this to BambooHR's attention, but since it doesn't seem to be a widespread issue, it may be user error on our employees' part.
How is this tool different than their competitors?

I have some minimal experience with Gusto, which I liked well enough. However, compared to our previous payroll provider (Heartland Solutions), the difference is night and day. Heartland was slow, not user-friendly, and had very few integrations. Everyone in our company was happy when we switched to BambooHR. It has definitely made my job as an HR manager much easier.

What Instructions should people think about when buying this type of tool?

Consider your main goals. I think BambooHR is reasonably priced for what it offers. The yearly cost is based on a variable monthly fee that depends on the number of employees, whether they use time tracking, etc. It usually amounts to $216 per month.

BambooHR also offers many add-ons that can increase the subscription cost, such as a Slack-style platform and a Community feature, which we do not use.

I recommend discussing pricing and features with the platform representatives to ensure it aligns with your budget. Also, consider the other services and benefits you offer and whether you want them integrated into your HR platform. BambooHR is designed to be an all-in-one HR solution.

How has this tool changed or evolved over time to meet users needs?

We have only been using it for 1.5 years, but they are constantly adding new features. They also send out frequent newsletters with downloadable HR guides.

What specific type of user or organization is this tool very good for?

We are a relatively small startup (<50 employees), so I’m not sure how BambooHR would work for a very large organization. It is well-suited for dynamic, tech-forward companies, as it requires some customization on the user's end. It feels very much like a Millennial/Gen Z platform.

What specific type of user or organization would this tool not be a good fit for?

Perhaps a large corporate organization, though I can’t say for certain. BambooHR is not a very formal platform in its approach or language. Certain sectors of the corporate world may find it too informal, dynamic, or playful.

Reviewer's Rating
7/10

We primarily use BambooHR for payroll and internal HR processes. It consolidates various HR functions into one platform, making it easier to manage workflows, merit increases, and communication during site closures. The system also helps track employee performance and manage compensation reviews, streamlining our overall HR operations. Additionally, we use it for onboarding and recruiting, as it simplifies job postings across multiple platforms. The integrated features create a consistent candidate experience, making the hiring process more efficient.

What do you like about this tool?
  • It is easy to use, allowing users to quickly become proficient without extensive training.
  • The setup process is simple, ensuring a hassle-free installation.
  • It offers a variety of features, providing flexibility for different HR needs.
Why did your organization buy this tool, and how long have you used it for?

One of the key issues we aimed to address was the need for better support for our internal team. We required a system that would provide reliable assistance whenever needed.

Previously, we used ADP, which offered various features, but its customer service was lacking. This often left our team feeling frustrated, especially during critical times when timely support was essential.

In contrast, BambooHR made it easy to get assistance and resolve issues quickly. Their responsive customer support significantly improved our experience, allowing us to navigate challenges more efficiently. Additionally, the platform was simple to install and use, with an intuitive interface that helped our team transition smoothly.

What do you dislike about this tool?
  • Many useful features require additional payments, which can increase costs.
  • The billing structure works well for smaller organizations but may become expensive as employee counts grow.
How is this tool different than their competitors?

I find BambooHR to be more intuitive and accessible than other HR platforms, which can often feel clunky or overly complex. Its user-friendly interface allows me to work more efficiently with fewer obstacles, making the overall experience more enjoyable.

What Instructions should people think about when buying this type of tool?

The number of employees in an organization is a key consideration, as pricing can increase significantly with a larger workforce. It’s also important to assess which features are necessary and which ones can be omitted to manage costs effectively. Identifying essential tools ahead of time can help keep monthly expenses reasonable.

How has this tool changed or evolved over time to meet users needs?

BambooHR has continuously improved by listening to user feedback and adding features that enhance usability and efficiency. These updates have made the platform even more valuable for HR teams.

What specific type of user or organization is this tool very good for?

BambooHR is ideal for HR professionals and organizations looking to streamline recruitment, improve employee engagement, and manage workforce operations efficiently.

What specific type of user or organization would this tool not be a good fit for?

BambooHR may not be the best fit for sales teams or organizations primarily focused on direct sales activities, as it is designed for HR and workforce management rather than sales tracking.

Reviewer's Rating
7/10

If I recall correctly, we intended to use BambooHR primarily as an ATS. However, the basic package did not include an ATS, so we added the ATS, Onboarding, and Employee Self-Service modules.

The ATS component was used almost daily to manage job postings and candidate pipelines. That said, the Employee Self-Service and Onboarding modules were underutilized, partly due to the variety of positions we hired for and differing needs across roles.

What do you like about this tool?
  • The ATS system was easy to use and well-suited for a small business, with flexibility to manipulate information as needed.
  • The increased visibility provided by BambooHR greatly improved our candidate pool and reduced time-to-fill metrics.
  • The Employee Self-Service page was intuitive and straightforward to navigate.
Why did your organization buy this tool, and how long have you used it for?

As an HR Business Partner for a smaller company that relied entirely on manual processes, we sought a software solution to support hiring and employee records management. Major pain points included the lack of a proper ATS and an effective system for managing employee records.

At the time, individuals would physically drop off applications or apply through Indeed, limiting our talent reach significantly. Additionally, employee records were maintained as physical files, posing significant challenges for tracking and audits. This tool addressed these issues and helped streamline our processes.

What do you dislike about this tool?
  • BambooHR was costly compared to other tools, considering its features and practicality for a small business.
  • A better onboarding and training process for the team could have improved the use of the Employee Self-Service tools.
  • For a company with both tech-savvy and labor employees, the tool could have been more agile to meet diverse needs effectively.
How is this tool different than their competitors?

From a small business perspective, I would rate it a 7 out of 10. It is easy to use and allows for quick adjustments, but the cost is high for what it offers. While its user-friendliness is a plus, it may not be suitable for larger companies with complex requirements.

What Instructions should people think about when buying this type of tool?

Cost is a crucial factor to consider. It is essential to evaluate whether employees and HR team members will use all the functionalities of the tool effectively. Assess the types of employees in your company, their technical skills, and their familiarity with workflows or self-service tools.

If you have a team that is technologically adept and values independent workflows, this tool could be a great fit. Additionally, for companies transitioning to more technologically enhanced processes, this tool can be beneficial if the cost aligns with your needs and expected usage.

How has this tool changed or evolved over time to meet users needs?

Based on feedback I’ve heard, the tool has remained consistent with the features and functionality I experienced during my time using it.

What specific type of user or organization is this tool very good for?

This tool is ideal for smaller to mid-sized companies with independent, technologically proficient employees who value easy-to-use self-service and ATS tools. It also supports organizations looking to modernize their processes.

What specific type of user or organization would this tool not be a good fit for?

Larger companies with complex organizational structures may find this tool too basic for their needs. It is less suited for businesses requiring advanced functionalities or extensive customization.

Reviewer's Rating
8/10

Key workflows I used in BambooHR included notifications and reminders to keep employees informed about birthdays and work anniversaries. I also used the policy acknowledgment feature, which allowed me to create documents and set up approval workflows when multiple employees needed to review and acknowledge them.

Employee changes were another commonly used feature, enabling updates to employee profiles, including personal and payroll information. Additionally, I used the system for onboarding new hires, sending out the employee handbook, and distributing required documents for signature or review.

Finally, I used BambooHR for performance reviews, conducting annual evaluations and 360-degree feedback, where managers could request feedback from an employee’s colleagues.

What do you like about this tool?
  • BambooHR is highly user-friendly, making it easy for organizations to integrate into their processes.
  • It offers customizable fields and charts, allowing organizations to tailor the system to their needs.
  • The platform receives frequent updates based on client feedback, continually improving the user experience.
Why did your organization buy this tool, and how long have you used it for?

I used BambooHR in my previous organization, which chose to purchase it for its user-friendly design. The company needed an HR management system that could centralize all employee information while also supporting performance reviews and document storage.

BambooHR provided these features while maintaining a simple and intuitive interface. The platform allowed HR teams to manage employee data efficiently without the complexity of more advanced systems.

What do you dislike about this tool?
  • While some customization options are available, they are relatively basic.
  • The performance review module only allows customization of questions but lacks options for adding charts or more detailed evaluations.
  • The cost can be high, especially when considering add-ons, making it less accessible for smaller companies.
  • Larger companies often require more customization, and while BambooHR may be more cost-effective, its limitations can be restrictive.
  • The system is more payroll-focused, which may be unnecessary for organizations looking only for HR management features.
How is this tool different than their competitors?

BambooHR is more affordable and easier to use than competitors like Paycom, Rippling, and ADP. While those systems offer more robust features, they are also more complex to set up and navigate. BambooHR’s simplicity makes it a strong choice for organizations that prioritize ease of use over advanced functionality.

What Instructions should people think about when buying this type of tool?

A company should consider cost and, based on its budget, determine which system best fits its needs. Customer support is another critical factor, as implementing a new system comes with a learning curve, making reliable support essential, particularly in the first 6–12 months.

Additionally, organizations should assess which modules they need most and how well those features integrate to ensure accurate and efficient data management.

How has this tool changed or evolved over time to meet users needs?

BambooHR has added more customization features over time to better meet user needs.

What specific type of user or organization is this tool very good for?

Small to medium-sized organizations can benefit from BambooHR.

What specific type of user or organization would this tool not be a good fit for?

Large companies may not feel that BambooHR is adequate for their needs.

Reviewer's Rating
8/10

As the HR leader I use BambooHR for everything!! I store all of our important documents and records in Bamboo. I do all of our recruiting, offer letters, and onboarding through HR. Once we hire an employee they are given their own login information to be able to access the org chart as well as put their PTO in. I also run reports to track everyone's PTO, promotions, and other key performance indicators for employees.

What do you like about this tool?
  • BambooHR is easy to use and train employees on. BambooHR makes it very easy to create offer letters and email templates when it comes to recruiting.
  • BambooHR makes it easy to recruit and keep track of candidates, and the stages they are in in the interview process.
  • The BambooHR 'how can we help button' makes it super easy when you have a problem or a question to get a resolution.
Why did your organization buy this tool, and how long have you used it for?

We are a small organization with roughly only 25 employees but we need a tool that could do it all. When making this decision we compared tools that could sit as an ATS system combined with an HRIS system. Not only can BambooHR fit in those factors, it can also have benefits and payroll implemented in their system if we wanted to stop using our other payroll system. We have been using BambooHR since March 2023 but I had used it at a prior organization so that was an easy decision to move forward with it.

What do you dislike about this tool?
  • I wish BambooHR let you have candidate scorecards when recruiting.
  • BambooHR makes it easy to create onboarding documents but it does not always simplify the packets for each job function.
  • I wish BambooHR had the ability to open and close jobs more fluidly similar to Greenhouse - multiple openings in one job code for tracking purposes.
How is this tool different than their competitors?

BambooHR is a great product for a small growing organization that needs a product to do it all. Because we have a limited budget we needed to find an ATS that could also onboard and fit as a people management system. I think that BambooHR is cheaper and easier to use.

What Instructions should people think about when buying this type of tool?

When buying a tool like BambooHR I think they should consider price (this was our number one driving factor), and scalability. As we continue to grow, BambooHR will be able to grow with us.

How has this tool changed or evolved over time to meet users needs?

BambooHR has evolved over the years since I last used it. They have developed their reporting capabilities, added payroll and benefits to their system, as well as created a system to organize a 'talent pool'.

What specific type of user or organization is this tool very good for?

BambooHR is good for a company with less than 400 employees that is looking to grow their organization, and manage current employees.

What specific type of user or organization would this tool not be a good fit for?

BambooHR might not be a fit for companies that are larger than 600 employees or trying to make a lot of hires at any given time.

Reviewer's Rating
10/10

We mainly used it for time tracking, sourcing, shortlisting, hiring, onboarding, and performance management. Besides, it has very good functionality for Compensation&Benefit and internal communication. There is no need to fill in the new hires' details manually, it is fully integrated with its ATS, and when we send out a job offer through the system the details of the new hire are automatically added. Moreover, we used it for birthday and tenure celebrations. We used Bamboohr for Engagement surveys as well. Last but not least, we customized and get periodical reports for various data that make sense for decision-making.

What do you like about this tool?

Firstly, I like BambooHR for its simple and user-friendly Recruitment function. Secondly, it is a great system where you can keep all of the records, even it is possible to keep the terminated employees' details as well. Thirdly, I like it for its customizable reports. I think that there is still room for further improvement in supporting clients in the Learning&Development process.

Why did your organization buy this tool, and how long have you used it for?

We have been using BambooHR since 2020. The previous HRIS that we used had lots of issues that we were not able to solve as it was not possible to get an answer from the support team to our inquiries. Before choosing BambooHR we defined key criteria that would support the business and analyzed other available HRISs as well. Key benefits of BambooHR for our company are lots of functionalities that support the employee life cycle in the company; a user-friendly interface; friendly and prompt support team. It has very good functionality for welcoming new hires and sending a new hire welcome package to all personnel/users.

What do you dislike about this tool?

I think there is room for further development in the Training function. It would be great to integrate the system with one of the LMS platforms or develop its own. Moreover, I think that it would be great to receive some comments or follow-up messages from each user under each announcement sent through the platform. Besides, there is not any chat room for users. That is why the companies that use BambooHR use other tools for internal communication.

How is this tool different than their competitors?

Simplicity, user-friendliness, and having more functions than others.

What Instructions should people think about when buying this type of tool?

Clients that prefer user-friendly programs should choose BambooHR. It has a very good customer support team. They are always prompt and friendly. But they should keep in their mind that this tool doesn't provide in-house payroll management.

How has this tool changed or evolved over time to meet users needs?

BambooHR has some great integrations (Slack, for instance) that allow me to see when my co-workers are out of the office or even celebrating an anniversary or birthday.

What specific type of user or organization is this tool very good for?

It is good for startups and small-size companies that use other tools for payroll, but need a user-friendly tool that is great for time tracking, recruitment, and performance management.

What specific type of user or organization would this tool not be a good fit for?

Big enterprises and global big companies that have many processes in HR

Reviewer's Rating
10/10

I use BambooHR for onboarding and offboarding. I also administer it personally in my organization. We've been digging into the performance management piece of it. We've been able to participate in trainings sponsored by BambooHR to acquire deeper skills. Overall, BambooHR is a key aspect of our employee experience.

What do you like about this tool?

I like BambooHR because it's user-friendly. I also like that it's a system where you can really track important data like job titles and salary changes. Finally, I like that BambooHR is easy to use.

Why did your organization buy this tool, and how long have you used it for?

We bought BambooHR to establish a centralized place that could securely store our employees' data for our HR team. We also wanted to create a seamless onboarding and offboarding process. The customer service is impeccable at Bamboo and they're always very helpful. It's also very user-friendly. I've used the product personally for one year.

What do you dislike about this tool?

I wish BambooHR offered a way for us to administer stock options and 401K directly through the program. I also wish we had a dedicated account rep, which we, unfortunately, do not have at this time. I would love to see more engaging ways for our employees to be onboarded, as well.

How is this tool different than their competitors?

They're different because they have a very attractive interface and the response rate of the customer service team is higher. They also tend to offer a more diverse set of program features.

What Instructions should people think about when buying this type of tool?

I'd recommend really digging in to make sure you're taking advantage of all of the features and integrations Bamboo has to offer. Also, I'd recommend smaller companies (less than 50 people) really consider if this is a tool that's right for their size.

How has this tool changed or evolved over time to meet users needs?

The training content they've offered is impeccable.

What specific type of user or organization is this tool very good for?

I'd say an organization of at least 50+ people.

What specific type of user or organization would this tool not be a good fit for?

An organization with fewer than 50 on its team.

Reviewer's Rating
9/10
  • The tool has been critical in managing employee data and maintaining the database of employee information accessible by the team remotely.
  • We use BambooHR for onboarding and collecting information for new joiners. It is also an ideal tool for recruitment and tracking of candidates throughout the recruitment cycle.
  • We are also able to use it to track and manage employee leave applications.
  • Reporting has been made very simple since I can pull a report in minutes on headcount, analysis on gender, leave, turnover rates, onboarding, and performance

What do you like about this tool?
  1. Excellent Customer Service: The customer support team has been very supportive and responsive in troubleshooting.
  2. The system is user-friendly and has some videos guiding you through some of its functions. The system is designed to be customizable, so clients can tailor it to meet their specific needs.
  3. Powerful reporting: BambooHR's reporting features have allowed me to generate a wide range of reports, such as headcount, turnover, and diversity reports, this information is instrumental in making data-driven decisions.
Why did your organization buy this tool, and how long have you used it for?

As Covid-19 forced most employers to look into hybrid working models, there was a need for us to look into tools for managing employee information and tracking time off to streamline administrative tasks and reduce errors while working remotely.

BambooHR offers Recruiting and applicant tracking features that make it easier to find and hire the right candidates for open positions remotely.

Additionally, it provides performance management tools, including goal setting and performance reviews, which can help ensure that employees are working towards company objectives and receiving the feedback they need to succeed.

I found the system to be user-friendly, with a modern interface that is easy to navigate and customize to meet our needs. The system also has video tutorials that are clear and guide you through its functions.

What do you dislike about this tool?

The main con would be its limited payroll functionality. It is not available in Africa and its payroll functionality is currently only available for customers in the United States and Canada, which may be a drawback for companies based in other countries.

Pricing is also on the upper limit compared to other solutions, particularly in Africa.

The features on training could also be more customizable to clients in diverse spaces or lines of work

How is this tool different than their competitors?

BambooHR has strong reporting features which allow us to generate a wide range of reports, such as headcount, turnover, and diversity reports, which can help organizations make data-driven decisions.

Its user-friendly interface is easy to navigate and find the information users need. The system is designed to be customizable, so users can tailor it to meet their specific needs.

What Instructions should people think about when buying this type of tool?

When buying BambooHR or any other HR software solution, there are several criteria to consider, including:

  1. Location: BambooHR's payroll functions are better suited for companies in US and Canada. For ease of compliance with local regulations, countries in Africa can consider an alternative tool to run their payroll function.
  2. Company size and needs: The size of the company and its HR needs are important factors to consider when selecting a software solution. BambooHR is generally well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses with straightforward HR needs.
  3.  Customization: Companies should consider how customizable BambooHR is, and whether it can be tailored to their specific HR workflows and processes.
  4. Security and compliance: Companies should consider BambooHR's security and compliance features to ensure that employee data is protected and that the system meets relevant legal and regulatory requirements.

How has this tool changed or evolved over time to meet users needs?
  • Improved user experience: BambooHR has focused on improving the user experience over time, with updates to the system's interface, navigation, and overall usability.
  • Deeper analytics: BambooHR has added more powerful reporting and analytics features over time, which has helped users gain deeper insights into their HR data.

What specific type of user or organization is this tool very good for?

BambooHR is well-suited for small to medium-sized organizations with straightforward HR needs. The system is particularly strong in areas such as employee data management, onboarding, and reporting, and is designed to be customizable to meet the specific needs of each organization.

Functions like payroll are better suited for companies in US and Canada.

It is well-suited to organizations that need a flexible, customizable, and user-friendly HR software solution.

What specific type of user or organization would this tool not be a good fit for?

Large enterprises: BambooHR is generally not recommended for large enterprises with complex HR needs. The system is designed to be straightforward and easy to use, which means it may not have the depth of functionality that larger organizations require.

It is also not ideal for a company wishing to run payroll that is operating outside the US

Reviewer's Rating
8/10

BambooHR is an essential part of our workflow at the office. We use BambooHR on a daily basis for reducing manual paperwork and quickly tracking employee information. BambooHR helps to ensure that our manager and team members are up-to-date on records such as shift changes, vacation requests, and job roles. This helps make hiring and onboarding new employees easy, fast, and efficient. BambooHR also allows us to easily track employee performance reviews and keep tabs on employee attendance. Its comprehensive search capabilities enable us to quickly find important documents when needed. BambooHR has been an invaluable tool for improving overall workplace organization and productivity, helping us run our business with fewer manual processes efficiently and effectively.

What do you like about this tool?
  1. BambooHR is an incredibly user-friendly HR platform that has made it easier than ever to manage employee data.
  2. it makes onboarding new employees a breeze, allowing us to quickly and accurately collect important documents with just a few clicks.
  3. The powerful analytics BambooHR provides are also great for keeping tabs on performance, compensation, and attendance.
Why did your organization buy this tool, and how long have you used it for?

We chose BambooHR as our Human Resources software because of its expansive, easy-to-use capabilities. We wanted to automate HR processes and initially used Zoho but we found a problem integrating Zoho to meet our expectations since Zoho requires knowledge of IT. BambooHR allows us to easily manage employee timesheets, track new hire onboarding processes, create interactive checklists, and track performance goals with ease. We have been using BambooHR for almost two years now and have seen a great ROI. BambooHR has moved our HR processes into the 21st century and enabled us to make changes quickly while keeping track of valuable data that would have taken us significantly longer to include manually.

What do you dislike about this tool?
  1. BambooHR does not offer a significant number of options when it comes to customizing your dashboard or user profiles.
  2. BambooHR lacks many advanced reporting features.
  3. BambooHR does not currently offer the ability to track vacation hours for individual employees.
How is this tool different than their competitors?

Its strong suite of features make it stand out from similar tools. BambooHR simplifies the onboarding process by helping to manage employee data, providing an effective way to track hours and attendance, or designing custom workflows for tasks like vacation requests. What I particularly appreciate about BambooHR is its ability to create employee reports that are fast, intuitive, and easy to use. BambooHR also integrates seamlessly with other software such as payroll, benefits management, and mailing services. Overall in comparison to other HR tools available today, BambooHR stands above many of them. Its intuitive design and robust functionality make it my preferred choice for managing my HR processes; it gives me everything I need in one place without any hassle.

What Instructions should people think about when buying this type of tool?

When considering BambooHR as the right software solution for your business, there are several key criteria to consider. Thoughtful evaluation of factors such as cost and implementation time frame should be taken into account to make BambooHR fits into your business plans and operations. Additionally, it’s important to understand BambooHR's functionality and its capacity for automation to guarantee you’re getting the most out of the software in terms of streamlining tasks and increasing efficiency.

How has this tool changed or evolved over time to meet users needs?

By consistently listening to customer feedback, BambooHR continues to evolve and grow along with its users' needs. BambooHR now provides software solutions that allow companies to streamline their mundane, yet essential HR processes like record-keeping, onboarding, and more. BambooHR has also added more robust analytics and reporting functionality to offer real-time visibility into human capital metrics.

What specific type of user or organization is this tool very good for?

BambooHR is an incredibly valuable tool for businesses of all sizes looking to streamline their HR processes. It makes it simple to store employee information, set access permissions, and track important past and present data. From small independent businesses just getting started with their HR needs, to large organizations that have much more complicated paperwork requirements. because the software offers a high range of features and prices that can fit any type of business.

What specific type of user or organization would this tool not be a good fit for?

BambooHR may not be suitable for certain users and organizations due to its specialization in Human Resources. BambooHR’s core focus is streamlining the payroll, hiring, performance reviews, and goals-tracking processes for medium-sized businesses. As such, BambooHR may not be the ideal choice for companies that prioritize a large range of features outside of conventional HR setup or are unwilling to invest time into learning the platform’s unique services. BambooHR also does not have an international presence, so global organizations looking for a comprehensive HR system may need to look elsewhere.

Reviewer's Rating
9/10

Starting with talent acquisition, we use it to maintain our talent pool. Then recruiting the talent by incorporating an offer letter and contract. Once the employee is in our system, we use it for database management. We also use it for their performance evaluation and record the training. In the end, we also use its features of onboarding, offboarding, and employee survey as well.

What do you like about this tool?

I like it for its smooth performance evaluation process. It's one of my favorite features. Second is its onboarding feature and hires packet that let the new employee feel welcomed. Last but not least, is its ATS system which helps us keep a track of our talent pool.

Why did your organization buy this tool, and how long have you used it for?

My organization has been using it for 2 years. This is an amazing tool for employee database management. Along with that, it offers an employee satisfaction survey which can help improve things along the way. Its performance module has made life way easier with a simple few steps process for performance evaluation. Lastly, its hiring module is easy to use and generates results.

What do you dislike about this tool?

It does not provide integration with LinkedIn which adds to the cost of LinkedIn job wrapping. Its customization option is very limited and its API keys are also limited to very few options.

How is this tool different than their competitors?

For a startup, It provides all the necessary options that will help the organization alleviate its HRIS system. It is not that costly compared to others and it is also very simple to use.

What Instructions should people think about when buying this type of tool?

Apart from the very obvious, cost; another criterion could be the size of the organization. The needs of the organization are also very important in terms of what they want to achieve from an HRIS.

How has this tool changed or evolved over time to meet users needs?

They have introduced new modules like performance, moreover, they are always doing webinars to make the best use of their tool. Their customer support is always very helpful.

What specific type of user or organization is this tool very good for?

Small and Medium Enterprises.

What specific type of user or organization would this tool not be a good fit for?

MNCs.

Who shouldn't buy BambooHR

Many of BambooHR’s features work grandly for businesses in virtually every part of the world. However, modules like payroll, hiring & onboarding, and time tracking are certainly either thought of for US business practices or, in the case of payroll, only available for US employees. International or remote businesses looking for an HRMS to handle both HR and payroll needs would not be a good fit. Unless, that is, they use the HR part only and integrate payroll through another vendor, like one of the best international payroll providers.

BambooHR Customers

Among the 20,000+ companies that use BambooHR, you’d find names like Quora, Universal Group, Reddit, Asana, Change.org, University of Maryland, Grammarly, Stance, Postmates, Wistia, the Jacksonville Jaguars, and ZipRecruiter.

BambooHR: Easy to Use & Scales Well
visit BambooHR

BambooHR Key Features

BambooHR has two feature sets. Essentials provides human resources management modules, employee self-service tools, and baseline customer support. 

Advantage includes everything in Essentials but adds premium customer support, hiring and onboarding systems, an ATS, training, reporting, a job site, company branding, and access to BambooHR's partner marketplace and open API integration. 

Add-ons such as time tracking, payroll, and performance management are available at additional costs.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the top features: 

  • People Data & Analytics: BambooHR strives to be the single and secure database where all your employee information is stored and managed. They couple that with powerful, intuitive reporting tools and a strong focus on security.
  • Mobile Hiring App: One of their most-talked-about perks, their hiring app gives recruiters the ease to perform most applicant tracking tasks from their phone if needed. 
  • Automated onboarding: Set up tasks to new hires for them to complete at a time of their choosing.
  • Introductions: BambooHR makes introductions easy with resources like customizable new-hire packets and get-to-know-you emails.
  • Electronic signatures: New employees can sign the stuff they need to without stepping a foot in the office.

BambooHR also has capabilities for: 

  • Attendance tracking
  • Benefits administration
  • Compliance
  • Employee communication tools
  • Employee engagement
  • Reporting and analytics
  • Payroll
  • Performance appraisal
  • Time tracking
  • Workforce management
  • Compensation management
  • Performance management tools and surveys

BambooHR Key Integrations

BambooHR has an API with lots of partnerships and an app marketplace, although these are only available from the Advantage onwards. If you do go with that plan, the platform integrates with most applicant tracking systems, as well as solutions for employee assessments, background checks, employment verification, payroll, benefits administration, ERP & accounting, training, onboarding, performance management, recognition, and more. Their marketplace keeps growing and already features a few hundred vendor integrations.

BambooHR Pricing

Pricing is not disclosed upfront, but they do offer a free trial of their all-in-one software and then go out of their way to find a version that will suit you. Before they come up with a personalized quote that will align with your budget, however, they are also likely to extend your free trial upon request or even give you a free demo of the advanced features.

BambooHR is Best For

BambooHR is a good fit for companies looking for a very customizable HR product, with pricing that reflects their needs. It’s also popular among teams that are partially or even fully remote.

How has BambooHR Changed Over Time?

BambooHR Implementation

Getting started with BambooHR is as easy as signing up for their free trial and then getting in touch with their team. They'll likely want to talk to you about choosing a plan that's based on your needs, and the implementation of that will vary accordingly.

BambooHR Customer Success

BambooHR does more of a self-service approach to customer success. The Essentials package includes email support and access to their Customer Success Webinar library. For their telephone support, you’d have to upgrade to the Advantage plan. From our understanding, both kinds of personal support are only offered in US business hours.

About BambooHR

BambooHR was started in 2008 by Ben Peterson and Ryan Sanders. Their goal was to create a product that customers would love using and that would save countless man hours. At the same time, they wanted the company behind this product to be a place people would enjoy working at.

This approach worked, as they have kept growing both their employee and customer count quite steadily over the years. They had 470 employees around the end of 2019. Now, as of Summer 2022, they have over 1250. Their product is used by thousands of companies in well over 100 countries.

An interesting bit about the way they manage their company is that they have an “anti-workaholic policy”. Basically, BambooHR employees are forbidden from laboring over 40 hours per week.

Also noteworthy is the fact that while both founding members are still on the board, BambooHR’s CEO is now Brad Rencher. He was previously a marketing executive at Adobe Inc., before being recruited for the post in October 2019.

Company HQ

Lindon, Utah

Number of Employees

1250+

Year Founded

2008

Amount Raised

According to their Crunchbase profile, BambooHR has raised an undisclosed amount of funding over 2 rounds. The last one of which was in Summer 2016. Among others, BambooHR is funded by Sorenson Capital.

FAQ

How come BambooHR is so popular? 

We’d argue that BambooHR was one of the first companies to bring HR functionalities to the SaaS realm with modern UX design. However, while many companies do that now, they’ve secured their position as a household name in HR software due to their ever-growing features and flexible packages; which suit SMBs and enterprises alike. 

Is BambooHR Free? 

As of summer 2022, BambooHR doesn’t offer a stand-alone free-for-life product. They do have a free trial, however, and they’ve been known to extend it based on your needs and plans. That being said, it does eventually cost, but the pricing is completely customized based on what features you need.

BambooHR Alternatives

Paylocity

Top payroll and HR software for midsize companies

Popularity score
4.2 / 5
user score
4.3 / 5
Product score
4.1 / 5
HiBob

Culture-focused HRIS for multinational organizations

Popularity score
4.5 / 5
user score
4.4 / 5
Product score
4.3 / 5
Deel

Centralized platform that organizes payroll, hiring, and HR

Popularity score
4.2 / 5
user score
4.6 / 5
Product score
4.5 / 5
APS

Affordable U.S. payroll and HR system, ideal for healthcare and nonprofits

Popularity score
4.5 / 5
user score
4.5 / 5
Product score
4.4 / 5
Monday.com

Straightforward HR tools from project management app leader

Popularity score
4.5 / 5
user score
4.6 / 5
Product score
4.3 / 5
Paycor

Top HR document management software for U.S.-based companies

Popularity score
4.1 / 5
user score
4.2 / 5
Product score
4 / 5
OnPay

Affordable HRIS and payroll system for small businesses

Popularity score
4.8 / 5
user score
4.8 / 5
Product score
4.7 / 5
Factorial

Strong HR software solution for small businesses

Popularity score
4.4 / 5
user score
4.5 / 5
Product score
4.2 / 5
Rippling

A unified system for SMB-oriented HR, IT, and spend management

Popularity score
4.8 / 5
user score
4.2 / 5
Product score
4.1 / 5

Review Methodology

We take our research process seriously and want to make sure we are presenting our readers with the very best solutions in a given software category. Check out this guide to learn how we evaluate vendors before featuring them in our buyer guides.

Learn More