If your HR team is still relying on spreadsheets, outdated tools, or disconnected systems, the cracks will eventually show. Onboarding drags, payroll errors slip through, compliance risks multiply, and employees get frustrated when simple requests take too long.
Without the right core HR software in place, important data gets scattered, reporting becomes a chore, and your HR team spends more time chasing paperwork than supporting people. This is why in 2024, cloud-deployed HR solutions captured over 74% market share — a major shift toward flexibility, scalability, and accessibility, especially in support of remote and hybrid work models.
Slow, manual HR processes hurt employee experience, make it harder to retain talent, and limit your ability to scale smoothly. The right platform can flip that script, automating routine work, unifying data, and freeing your team to focus on high-value initiatives.
I’ve done the heavy lifting by reviewing G2 user feedback and comparing feature sets. The result is this curated list of the best core HR software. These tools actually deliver on their promises to streamline employee data management, payroll, benefits, and more. If you want your HR team to spend less time wrestling with admin tasks and more time driving company success, these are the solutions worth considering.
7 best core HR software for 2025: My top picks
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Rippling: Best for all-in-one HR, IT, and payroll automation
Manage HR, payroll, benefits, and IT workflows like device management in one platform. (Pricing starts around $8–$35/user/month)
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Gusto: Best for payroll, benefits, and HR in small businesses
Simple payroll and benefits with built-in compliance tools. (Plans start at $40/month + $6/user/month)
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BambooHR: Best for people-focused HR in SMBs
Intuitive HR essentials for records, onboarding, PTO, and reporting. (Pricing starts around $6.19/user/month)
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HiBob HRIS: Best for modern, global HRIS
Built for fast-growing global teams with engagement, performance, and core HR tools. (Custom pricing, typically $16–$25/user/month)
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RUN Powered by ADP: Best for trusted payroll and HR tools
Reliable payroll, tax filing, and basic HR backed by ADP. (Pricing available on request)
- UKG Ready: Best for scalable, all-in-one HR
Built to support core HR, time tracking, scheduling, and people analytics in one suite. (Pricing available on request) -
Keka: Best for payroll and workforce management
Localized payroll, attendance, leave, and workforce analytics for Indian businesses. (Pricing available on request)
Apart from my own analysis, these core HR software are rated as top solutions in G2’s Grid Report and set a foundation of customer satisfaction and market presence.
The global Core HR software market was valued at around $11.9 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to $23.6 billion by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 8.9%. This rapid growth underscores a strong organizational focus on streamlining HR operations and embracing digital transformation.
7 best core HR software I recommend
Core HR software helps companies centralize employee data, automate HR workflows, and manage key processes like onboarding, time-off tracking, and payroll in one place. It acts as the system of record for your workforce, giving HR teams better visibility, improving compliance, and reducing the time spent on manual admin tasks.
From my evaluation, the best core HR platforms go far beyond basic recordkeeping. They streamline the entire employee lifecycle, integrate seamlessly with payroll, benefits, and performance tools, and provide actionable insights that help HR teams support growth instead of being buried in paperwork.
How did I find and evaluate the best core HR tools?
I spent weeks evaluating and comparing core HR software platforms, narrowing down the best options based on features, ease of use, pricing, and real user feedback. I also used AI-driven research to analyze software updates, buyer preferences, and common challenges to ensure these recommendations are as accurate and helpful as possible.
In cases where I couldn’t personally explore a tool due to limited access, I consulted HR professionals with hands-on experience and validated their insights using verified G2 reviews. The screenshots featured in this article may be a mix of those captured during evaluation and those obtained from the vendor’s G2 page.
Each tool on this list is reliable, easy to use, and designed to help HR teams centralize employee data, automate workflows, and streamline key processes — whether you’re managing onboarding, payroll, compliance, or the entire employee lifecycle. My research and analysis are also based on real-time buyer sentiment and the proprietary G2 scores awarded to each of these core HR solutions.
What makes the best core HR software: My criteria
When I compared core HR software, I focused on features that actually save time, improve accuracy, and create a better experience for both HR teams and employees. Here are some features to keep in mind:
- Centralized employee database: The best platforms act as a single source of truth for all workforce data. Be it employee personal details, contracts, job history, or documents, thus eliminating duplicate records and manual spreadsheets. A clean, centralized database ensures accuracy and makes it easier for HR to access information.
- Onboarding and offboarding automation: Strong HR software automates offer letters, e-signatures, provisioning tasks, and exit workflows, reducing manual steps for HR and IT. This helps create a seamless employee experience from day one and ensures nothing falls through the cracks during transitions.
- Time-off and attendance management: I looked for tools with built-in leave policies, automated accruals, approval workflows, and optional integrations with time-tracking or biometric systems for accurate attendance tracking. Platforms that clearly show balances and approval statuses make life easier for both managers and employees.
- Payroll and benefits integration: I gave extra points to software that seamlessly integrates with payroll providers or includes built-in payroll and benefits management to avoid duplicate data entry. This reduces errors, saves time, and ensures accurate calculations while improving compliance with local regulations.
- Performance and engagement tools: Beyond admin tasks, some platforms add real value with performance review cycles, engagement surveys, and goal tracking, all in one place. These features help HR teams support development, retain top talent, and build a more engaged workforce.
- Reporting and workforce insights: The best tools help HR teams make better decisions with prebuilt reports on headcount, turnover, and demographics, plus dashboards for easy visualization. Platforms that surface trends and insights proactively can drive more strategic HR decisions.
By evaluating these core areas, I could see which platforms truly simplify HR operations and create a better experience for both HR teams and employees. The best core HR software reduces manual work, improves accuracy, and grows with your company’s needs.
The list below contains genuine user reviews from the core HR Software category. To be included in this category, a solution must:
- Store employee information and documents in a central database
- Allow users to customize employee profiles with unique data fields
- Enable simple exporting and importing of employee data for reporting purposes
- Integrate with third-party HR applications from which additional employee information can be pulled
*This data was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some reviews may have been edited for clarity.
1. Rippling: Best for all-in-one HR, IT, and payroll automation
Rippling stands out as an all-in-one platform that unifies core HR, payroll, benefits, and even IT management in a single interface.
Personally, I found its automation workflows extremely useful for saving time on routine HR tasks like onboarding and data syncing. Many G2 reviewers echo this sentiment, and 95% of users rate its time, attendance, and PTO tracking highly.
A recurring strength mentioned in reviews is how Rippling centralizes HR functions. I appreciate being able to manage employee data, benefits administration, compliance, and performance in one place without juggling multiple systems. Users also note that this centralization makes training easier for new team members since most workflows are accessible from one dashboard.
Performance and benefits administration are consistently praised, with 95% satisfaction ratings. Reviewers describe the benefits enrollment process as smooth for both admins and employees, with minimal manual intervention.
The platform’s dashboard is another highlight — I liked how task summaries, pending approvals, and alerts are visible at a glance, and many G2 users say this visibility helps them stay on top of priorities without having to dig through menus. Similarly, performance and reliability earn a 93% positive rating across 1,059 reviews, with users appreciating fast load times and consistent uptime that reduce delays in daily HR processes.
That said, some areas could be improved. A few users reported that mobile access feels less complete than the desktop experience. For example, certain detailed reports and admin-level settings aren’t available on mobile, making it more suited for quick approvals or basic checks. Support feedback is mixed; while many describe the agents as helpful and knowledgeable, some feel responses can be overly scripted or AI-like, lacking a more personalized, situational approach.
Even with these trade-offs, Rippling remains a top choice for businesses that want a flexible, automation-friendly core HR solution. Its ability to unify HR and IT functions, paired with strong performance and a highly rated user experience, makes it particularly well-suited for distributed and fast-growing teams.
What I like about Rippling:
- I appreciate having everything in one place. G2 users often highlight how centralizing payroll, benefits, and time tracking saves them time and reduces the need for multiple tools.
- I find it efficient for handling routine workflows. Many reviewers say automation features make tasks like onboarding and data syncing faster and less repetitive.
What G2 users like about Rippling:
“The integration capabilities are excellent. Rippling seamlessly connects with our other business tools, creating a unified system that saves us significant time. The user interface is intuitive and modern, making it easy for both HR admins and employees to navigate without confusion. What really stands out is how simple it is to onboard new employees. The automated workflows guide new hires through all necessary paperwork, benefits selection, and account setups in one streamlined process. This has reduced our onboarding time from days to just hours.”
– Rippling review, Saikumarreddy S.
What I dislike about Rippling:
- Several G2 users pointed to the need for more responsive support. They mentioned they’d like quicker answers or more personalized guidance when reaching out for help.
- G2 users also noted that certain HR workflows like accessing detailed analytics, editing advanced employee records, or customizing reports are easier on desktop.
What G2 users dislike about Rippling:
“I wish there were a more intuitive and direct way to get support or connect with the right person within the company through the platform itself. It would significantly improve my overall experience if I knew I could quickly and easily get assistance when something goes wrong or I have a unique question about my HR or IT services.”
– Rippling review, Samara C.
2. BambooHR: Best for people-focused HR in SMBs
BambooHR is often praised for being simple and approachable, making it easy for HR teams and employees alike to get started without a steep learning curve. I find the platform’s interface intuitive, and many G2 users agree. It’s frequently described as easy to navigate and user-friendly.
One of the most valued features is time-off and PTO management. I like how it streamlines leave requests, approvals, and tracking, removing the need for manual spreadsheets or email chains. G2 reviewers often mention that both HR teams and employees find the process smoother, since approvals flow quickly and records stay updated automatically.
Organization management is another strong point. 87% of G2 reviewers praised how it visualizes reporting structures and employee data. From my perspective, this makes it much easier to maintain clarity around hierarchies and team relationships, which is especially useful for growing businesses.
Performance management also earns praise from 85% of users. I’ve found it simplifies review cycles and goal tracking by giving managers and employees a central place to align on performance. Reviewers say this helps make feedback more consistent and transparent across teams.
Beyond these, BambooHR’s customization capabilities are well received. HR teams value the ability to create tailored PTO policies, assign role-based access, and build custom forms to fit their workflows. This flexibility means businesses don’t need to force-fit their processes into rigid templates.
The employee self-service portal is another highlight. I like how it allows employees to access their own records, request time off, and update details without always going through HR. Many reviewers noted this reduces administrative back-and-forth and saves HR staff significant time.
Finally, BambooHR’s applicant tracking system (ATS) integration with company websites streamlines hiring. Job postings flow directly into the system, and candidates can be tracked through the pipeline with less manual effort. Reviewers consistently note how this reduces duplicate data entry and keeps the hiring process more organized.
However, some users do see areas for improvement. A recurring con is that reporting tools can feel restrictive, with limited customization for more complex analytics. Others mention that the mobile app offers fewer capabilities than the desktop version, working well for quick approvals but lacking depth for advanced HR tasks.
Support is generally praised for being helpful, but a few reviewers said response times can be slower during busy periods, which can delay urgent resolutions.
Even with these trade-offs, BambooHR holds a 4.4/5 rating on G2, reflecting its reputation as a reliable, easy-to-use solution. Its mix of intuitive design, strong PTO and performance tools, and customizable workflows makes it a dependable choice for organizations looking to simplify their core HR operations without adding complexity.
What I like about BambooHR:
- Time-off and PTO management is a praiseworthy feature. Reviewers highlight how it streamlines leave requests and approvals, saving time for both managers and employees.
- Performance management makes reviews and goal-setting easier to track without creating extra admin work, earning high satisfaction scores in G2 reviews.
What G2 users like about BambooHR:
“BambooHR makes it much easier and less time-consuming to do most of the administrative work of HR. The reports are super easy to pull, create, and manipulate if needed to get the information I need to make informed decisions and presentations. I really like having (almost) everything HR in one place. From hiring to onboarding, benefits, performance management, payroll, communications, surveys, and finally offboarding — it’s all in BambooHR, making it really easy for employees to find what they need. Customization is as simple as a call, chat, or email to the support team. If I can’t figure something out on my own, they have always been great to work with. Finally, I also like that BambooHR listens to my feedback and uses it to make changes and updates that are super impactful. The improvements over the years have made it nearly impossible for me to even consider changing our HRIS.”
– BambooHR review, Jennifer F.
What I dislike about BambooHR:
- Reporting could be more customizable, with several G2 reviewers mentioning that while summaries are clear for basic needs, they fall short for deeper analytics.
- Phone and chat support feedback is mixed. Some users wanted faster responses or more personalized help, though others found the team helpful once issues were addressed.
What G2 users dislike about BambooHR:
“We recently upgraded to the Pro package, and I’ve been having doubts about whether it’s worth it. The performance management piece still feels limited, even with the 1:1; we desire better ways to communicate and celebrate staff, and the surveys feel too restricted, not allowing us to be able to get to the types of questions we really want to ask. We are still learning the Pro features, but so far we are on the fence.”
– BambooHR review, Kymberli R.
3. HiBob HRIS: Best for modern, global HRIS
HiBob HRIS has been designed as a modern HR platform focused on streamlining core HR processes like organization management, time-off tracking, payroll entry, and performance reviews. Many users appreciate this consolidated approach because it reduces the need for multiple systems and helps HR teams save time on routine tasks.
One of its strongest features is organization management, with 86% of 1,055 G2 reviewers rating it positively. It allows teams to clearly map out reporting lines, visualize team structures, and maintain updated employee records without the clutter of spreadsheets.
Payroll administration is another highlight. I’ve found that it simplifies both salary and hourly payroll, cutting down on manual effort and reducing errors. G2 reviewers often point out that having payroll tied directly into employee records makes processing faster and more reliable, especially for small HR teams.
I’ve also found customizable workflows to be a real asset. They let HR teams tailor processes like onboarding, performance reviews, and leave approvals to match internal policies, which reduces repetitive setup work. Many users said this flexibility allows them to adapt the system to their company’s unique culture rather than forcing processes into rigid templates.
Many users also call out integration with collaboration tools like Slack and Microsoft Teams. I like this because it makes HR updates and approvals easier to track without constantly switching platforms. Reviewers mentioned that having reminders and notifications show up in tools employees already use every day helps boost adoption and cuts down on missed requests.
Another appreciated strength is the performance review module, which streamlines goal-setting and feedback cycles. From my perspective, this makes it easier for managers and employees to stay aligned, while G2 reviewers noted that it improves consistency and keeps performance conversations more structured.
A commonly praised aspect of HiBob HRIS is its intuitive and user-friendly interface. Many users mention that navigating the platform feels straightforward and approachable, even for first-time users. The clean design and ease of setup give HR teams confidence that they can handle both day-to-day and long-term workforce management without heavy training or steep learning curves.
However, there are still areas where HiBob could improve. Reporting is the most common gap mentioned, while it works well for standard needs, several users want more flexibility for custom analytics. Some reviewers also note integration with certain niche tools can take extra setup time, adding to onboarding efforts.
Even with these trade-offs, HiBob HRIS earns consistent praise for its modern design, high satisfaction in payroll and organization management, and adaptable workflows. For teams seeking a centralized, intuitive HR solution that supports daily operations while reducing tool overload, HiBob remains a top choice.
What I like about HiBob HRIS:
- The payroll administration is simple to manage, and many reviewers agree it reduces the manual effort needed for routine HR tasks.
- Organization management and performance tracking make it easier to visualize team structures and keep reviews on track, which a lot of users value.
What G2 users like about HiBob HRIS:
“I’ve had a great experience using HiBob — it’s one of the most intuitive HR platforms I’ve worked with. The user interface is clean, modern, and easy to navigate, making onboarding and daily tasks feel smooth and accessible for everyone, even those who aren’t tech-savvy. What I appreciate most is how HiBob keeps evolving: they’re clearly listening to user feedback and consistently rolling out thoughtful updates that enhance functionality and flexibility. It feels like a living platform that grows with you, not one that stays static.
For any organization looking for a dynamic and user-friendly HRIS, HiBob is definitely worth considering.”
– HiBob HRIS review, Eliza G.
What I dislike about HiBob HRIS:
- I did see some feedback around reporting needing more flexibility. While it works for basic summaries, a few users wanted more in-depth analytics.
- According to G2 reviewers, integrations with certain third-party tools can take extra steps, which can slow down setup if you rely on niche apps.
What G2 users dislike about HiBob HRIS:
“While HiBob is generally intuitive, there are a few areas where it could improve. Some of the reporting features can feel a bit limited unless you’re well-versed in custom reports, and at times, it takes a few extra steps to get the exact data view you need. The mobile app also lacks some of the functionality of the desktop version, which can be inconvenient for managers or employees on the go. Additionally, while integrations are available, setting them up can require more technical support than expected. Lastly, customer support response times can occasionally be slower than ideal, especially during high-traffic periods.”
– HiBob HRIS review, Arpit A.
Need a more unified approach to HR? Dive into our list of the best HCM software for complete workforce management.
4. Gusto: Best for payroll, benefits, and HR in small businesses
Gusto has been built to simplify payroll and HR for small businesses. It’s more than just a payroll tool; it’s often recognized as an all-in-one platform that manages payroll, benefits administration, tax compliance, and basic HR workflows in one place.
According to G2 reviews, payroll processing is one of the most valued features, making it easier to pay employees accurately and on time without extra manual effort. Benefits administration is seamlessly integrated with payroll, so deductions and enrollments are automatically synced. This connection reduces repetitive tasks and ensures compliance without requiring HR teams to double-check calculations.
A commonly praised aspect is Gusto’s user-friendly interface. I found it easy to navigate, and even new users seem confident running payroll after just a short time. The platform guides you through key steps, so you’re less likely to make mistakes, and many G2 reviewers appreciate that it makes what used to feel like a complex process more approachable.
I also noticed that time, attendance, and PTO tracking stand out, with 90% of G2 users rating it positively. It simplifies leave requests and scheduling so managers and employees don’t have to rely on manual spreadsheets.
Gusto helps automate recurring HR tasks. From onboarding new hires to running regular payroll cycles, the platform reduces manual steps, which saves time for small teams without dedicated HR staff. What’s more, compliance tasks, like tax filings and reporting, are handled automatically, which adds peace of mind for businesses managing multiple priorities.
Many G2 reviews also point out that Gusto’s benefits management tools are a big plus for small businesses. Being able to manage employee benefits in the same system as payroll feels seamless and prevents errors that often come from disconnected systems.
There are a few areas where Gusto could improve. Reporting works for basic needs, but G2 reviewers wish it had more flexible custom options, especially for teams wanting deeper analytics. Tax-related tasks like multi-state filings can feel more complex, and a few users mentioned it takes extra steps to reconcile benefits or correct payroll errors manually.
Another point I saw in reviews is that performance can feel slow during certain processes, like running larger payroll batches, though most still find it reliable overall.
Even with these trade-offs, Gusto maintains a 4.6/5 rating on G2, which reflects how well it delivers on its promise of simplifying payroll and HR. Its clean interface, built-in compliance, and seamless benefits integration make it a trusted go-to for small businesses that want a straightforward, reliable payroll and HR platform without unnecessary complexity.
What I like about Gusto:
- The platform’s user-friendly design makes it easy to navigate and run payroll, even for people who don’t have an HR or accounting background.
- Benefits administration is a big plus, since it’s directly tied to payroll, making deductions and enrollments seamless without extra manual work.
What G2 users like about Gusto:
“What I like best about Gusto is how it simplifies complex, often overwhelming tasks for small businesses — like payroll, benefits, and compliance — and makes them approachable and easy to manage. It’s rare to find a platform that combines intuitive design with such robust functionality. Gusto empowers teams to focus on growing their business rather than getting bogged down in admin work, and that’s something I really value.”
– Gusto review, Ally K.
What I dislike about Gusto:
- Managing tax tasks, especially multi-state filings, can feel a bit complicated, and some users shared that reconciling benefits or fixing payroll errors sometimes requires additional manual work.
- Another piece of feedback from G2 users is that the system can run more slowly during certain actions, like processing larger payroll batches, though most still consider it dependable overall.
What G2 users like about Gusto:
“While I have a lot of respect for Gusto and its mission, one area I’ve noticed for potential improvement is in expanding integration capabilities with other tools that growing businesses rely on. As companies scale, having more seamless connections with accounting, time tracking, or project management systems could enhance Gusto’s already strong user experience. That said, I also see this as an exciting opportunity. Gusto’s strong foundation puts it in a great position to continue evolving and meeting the needs of even more diverse businesses.”
– Gusto review, Alice M.
5. RUN Powered by ADP: Best for trusted payroll and HR tools
RUN Powered by ADP goes beyond being just a payroll processor. It functions as a core HR platform that helps businesses manage employee records, time tracking, tax compliance, and HR documentation in one place.
What stood out to me is how RUN helps with managing employee information. From maintaining staff records to tracking hours worked, it gives businesses a reliable way to stay organized without adding extra tools.
Many G2 reviewers also pointed out that the step-by-step prompts make it easy to follow HR workflows like onboarding and recordkeeping without missing key details. This built-in guidance helps ensure key tasks aren’t overlooked, reduces errors, and makes it easier for newer HR staff to get up to speed without heavy training.
Compliance management is built right into the system, and 92% of users rated this feature highly. It helps with state-specific requirements, generates necessary HR and tax forms, and provides alerts for upcoming deadlines. This reduced the stress of managing multiple regulations manually for users, which is a big plus for businesses operating across different states.
Another strength is timekeeping integration, which makes it easier to log, approve, and track hours directly within the platform. For small businesses, this means employee data flows seamlessly into other HR functions without extra effort.
I also liked how RUN centralizes core HR data, so reports, employee records, time logs, and compliance documents are all accessible in one place. Reviewers often mention that this consolidation reduces the need to switch between systems, which helps save time and minimize errors from manual data transfers. Having everything linked in a single interface makes it easier to track an employee’s journey.
RUN Powered by ADP is widely appreciated for its intuitive setup, integrated HR workflows, and reliable compliance support, making it ideal for small businesses looking to simplify their HR operations. That said, there are still a few areas where users feel the experience could be even stronger.
Some reviewers noted that report layouts can be a bit harder to scan quickly, and a few suggested that additional formatting options or built-in guidance would make them easier to interpret. Support feedback, while often positive about the knowledge and helpfulness of the team, occasionally mentions slower responses during peak periods, which can make it harder to resolve time-sensitive requests.
Even with these trade-offs, RUN Powered by ADP remains a trusted solution for small businesses that need simple, reliable core HR functionality. By combining employee records, time tracking, and compliance management in one easy-to-use system, it helps teams stay organized without adding complexity.
What I like about RUN Powered by ADP:
- The step-by-step guidance is especially helpful for onboarding and recordkeeping, as it makes HR processes feel less overwhelming and harder to mess up.
- Time tracking feature flows seamlessly into other HR tasks, making approvals, hours worked, and related reports easier to manage without extra manual work.
What G2 users like about RUN Powered by ADP:
“RUN has a lot of great features, such as Time and Attendance, that make timekeeping for employees simple. It also makes it easier to manage time off requests as my staff can submit requests online or via the app, and I automatically receive the notification and can plan accordingly. This has also been important for managing the PTO accruals. Employees can see how much time they have, and ADP automatically accrues and keeps track of anniversaries, so when their accrual rate increases, it is automated. When I added the Time feature to our current Run, the Customer Support team was extremely helpful. Everyone from Sales to Implementation. They were thorough and followed up with any concerns or questions I had promptly.”
– RUN Powered by ADP review, Rosaly H.
What I dislike about RUN Powered by ADP:
- Some reviewers mention that report layouts aren’t always easy to scan quickly, and they believe additional formatting options or built-in guidance could make interpreting them simpler.
- Feedback on support is generally positive regarding the team’s knowledge and helpfulness, but a few users note that response times can slow during peak periods, making it harder to address urgent requests promptly.
What G2 users dislike about RUN Powered by ADP:
“One thing I dislike about RUN Powered by ADP is the limited flexibility in generating customized reports. Often, we need to manually adjust exported data in Excel to get the insights we need. Additionally, some features are behind paywalls or require upgrades, which can be frustrating for smaller businesses trying to manage costs. At times, customer support can be slow to respond, especially during peak periods, which delays resolution of time-sensitive issues like payroll errors.”
– RUN Powered by ADP review, Joe B.
6. UKG Ready: Best for scalable, all-in-one HR
One of the strongest aspects of UKG Ready is its intuitive, user-friendly design. Reviewers frequently highlight that both HR admins and employees can get comfortable with the system quickly, without needing heavy training. Simple navigation and clean layouts make routine tasks, from clocking in to updating records, feel approachable, even for first-time users.
Another major pro is the time tracking and scheduling functionality. Managers find it reliable for approving timesheets and assigning shifts, while employees appreciate the ability to clock in, request PTO, or view schedules directly through the app. This reduces the back-and-forth often tied to manual processes, ensuring that attendance data flows smoothly into payroll and compliance tasks.
The employee self-service portal is another feature users call out positively. By giving staff the ability to manage their own profiles, request time off, and access pay documents independently, the platform reduces administrative workload on HR. Many reviewers said this empowerment also improves the employee experience, since people don’t need to wait on HR for simple requests.
UKG Ready also earns praise for its centralized reporting and workforce insights. HR teams value having employee data, tax forms, and schedules consolidated in one place, which improves visibility and decision-making. While some note that reports could be more customizable, the ability to access everything in a single dashboard is seen as a significant upgrade compared to juggling spreadsheets or disconnected tools.
A recurring theme in reviews is the platform’s scalability and flexibility. Businesses note that it works equally well for smaller teams and larger organizations because of its modular design. You can start with core HR and expand into payroll, scheduling, or analytics as your needs grow, which makes it a future-proof choice.
Finally, reviewers highlight the mobile app’s convenience for day-to-day tasks. While some advanced functions are better handled on desktop, many employees like being able to approve time-off requests, check schedules, or view pay slips on the go. This makes HR processes more accessible and keeps engagement high, especially in organizations with frontline or hourly workers.
That said, reviewers do raise a few areas for improvement. G2 reviewers mention occasional system slowdowns, especially during peak usage, which can briefly interrupt workflows. Finally, a smaller group of users noted that reporting and filtering options could be more customizable, particularly for those needing deeper analytics.
Even with these trade-offs, UKG Ready is rated 4.4/5 on G2 and stands out as a scalable solution that helps organizations simplify workforce management. Its balance of user-friendly design, robust time and scheduling tools, and centralized data makes it a reliable choice for teams that want a comprehensive HR system without unnecessary complexity.
What I like about UKG Ready:
- Time tracking and scheduling are frequently praised for their accuracy and simplicity, saving HR teams from manual reconciliation.
- The self-service portal gives employees control over their own data and requests, reducing HR’s admin workload and boosting overall efficiency.
What G2 users like about UKG Ready:
“As an HR Analyst in the SaaS industry, I use UKG Ready daily to manage employee records and generate reports. The platform’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate even complex data sets. The reporting capabilities are particularly impressive — detailed, customizable, and easy to export for analysis. UKG Ready also offers a wide range of features that support our HR operations, and the system is flexible enough to adapt to our workflows. Tasks like updating employee data, tracking time-off requests, and pulling analytics are streamlined and efficient. Overall, it’s a reliable and scalable solution that supports data-driven decision-making.”
– UKG Ready review, Simon D.
What I dislike about UKG Ready:
- Some reviewers note occasional system slowdowns during peak usage, which can briefly interrupt workflows, but many highlight that these moments are infrequent and don’t affect overall reliability.
- While reporting and filtering could be more customizable for users seeking advanced analytics, many still find the standard reports clear and useful for everyday HR needs.
What G2 users dislike about UKG Ready:
“While generally user-friendly, the amount of features can lead to a steep learning curve for new users, especially when looking into more complex functionalities.
The reporting tools lack advanced analytics and customizable report capabilities, and the interface can be cluttered and complex with too many graphs and numbers, making simple tasks challenging.
The internal communication features seems limited, with basic push notifications in a “mailbox” rather than in full real-time messaging. While generally responsive, there are delays in customer support during busy periods.”
– UKG Ready review, Evelyn E.
7. Keka: Best for payroll and workforce management
Keka is highly regarded by small and mid-sized businesses that want a streamlined, intuitive core HR platform without the burden of overly complex systems. I found it goes beyond payroll. It helps manage employee records, time tracking, leave management, salary structures, and expense reports in one unified workspace. It’s rated 4.5 out of 5 on G2, making it a trusted choice for growing organizations.
A consistent theme in the feedback is how simple and approachable the interface feels. Many users said it takes little time to onboard employees or HR staff, and common tasks like approving leave or accessing employee records are easy to complete without extra training.
One of the most frequently praised features I noticed is time, attendance, and PTO tracking, which 90% of users rated highly. It eliminates manual spreadsheets by automating leave requests, approvals, and syncing directly with payroll.
Another strength is organization management, where 88% of reviewers appreciated how clearly it visualizes reporting structures and organizes employee data. It helps HR teams stay organized without needing external tools.
I also liked how salary structures are managed within Keka, allowing HR teams to define pay grades and role-based structures clearly. G2 users rated this feature positively, saying it reduces confusion and ensures payroll accuracy.
Expense management, too, gets positive feedback. G2 users valued how Keka simplifies expense submission and reimbursements, giving both employees and HR better visibility into pending claims.
That said, there are still areas where users see room for improvement. G2 users noted that the mobile experience feels more limited compared to desktop. It works well for quick approvals but lacks the depth needed for advanced HR tasks. A few users mentioned occasional slowdowns when handling larger data sets or generating reports, which can slightly delay tasks.
Overall, Keka earns strong marks for its user-friendly design, automation of HR tasks, and highly rated features like time tracking, organization management, and salary structures. While support speed and mobile depth could be improved, its ability to simplify and centralize core HR functions makes it a dependable choice for growing businesses.
What I like about Keka:
- The interface is simple and approachable, so onboarding new team members or approving leave doesn’t take much effort or training.
- Time and PTO tracking automate approvals and sync directly with payroll, eliminating the hassle of managing manual spreadsheets.
What G2 users like about Keka:
“Honestly, what I love about Keka is how ridiculously easy it is to use. The interface is super clean, so you don’t feel lost clicking around. It takes care of all the boring stuff — payroll, attendance, leave tracking — you name it. And the best part? People can just log in, grab their payslips, apply for leave, and update their info without pinging HR every five minutes. It’s such a time-saver.”
– Keka review, Deepika S.
What I dislike about Keka:
- Some users wish the mobile version offered the same depth as the desktop, since it’s mostly useful for basic approvals but not for more advanced tasks.
- There are times when handling large reports or data sets feels slower than expected, which interrupts otherwise smooth workflows.
What G2 users dislike about Keka:
“The site does not respond properly at times, such as not loading the entire page and only loading partly, even after hitting the refresh button multiple times. Also, the gratuity calculation seems to be wrong as we have been flagged by employees on various occasions.”
– Keka review, Suvedh M.
Best core HR software: Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Have more questions? G2 has the answers!
Q1. What is the top-rated HR app for employee management?
BambooHR, Gusto, and Rippling consistently rank as top-rated HR apps for managing employees. They provide centralized dashboards where HR teams can oversee employee records, track attendance, manage leave requests, and handle payroll from one interface. G2 reviewers frequently highlight their ease of use, making them ideal for businesses that want to manage day-to-day HR tasks without complexity.
Q2. Which HR platform has the best customer support?
HiBob often receives high marks for customer support. Users praise its responsive service teams, helpful onboarding specialists, and detailed guidance during troubleshooting. While response times can vary across the industry, the platform stands out for pairing technical assistance with a personalized approach.
Q3. What are the best rated HR tools for automation?
BambooHR, Rippling, and HiBob HRIS are among the most praised platforms for automation according to G2 user feedback. They cut down on repetitive work by automating tasks like payroll processing, time-off approvals, benefits enrollment, compliance tracking, and onboarding workflows.
Q4. What are the best HR software options for startups?
For startups, Gusto and Rippling are standout choices. They offer simple setup, affordable pricing, and a mix of payroll, benefits, and compliance features that grow with the business. Justworks also handles HR administration as a managed service, which is appealing to early-stage teams without a dedicated HR department.
Q5. What is the best software for handling payroll and benefits in HR?
RUN Powered by ADP and Gusto excel in this category. These tools combine payroll processing, tax filing, and benefits administration in one place. Users appreciate their accuracy, compliance features, and the convenience of syncing benefits data directly with payroll.
Q6. What is the best HR solution for streamlining hiring process?
BambooHR and Rippling integrate strong applicant tracking systems (ATS) with onboarding tools. This allows recruiters to source candidates, manage interviews, and move new hires directly into the HRIS without duplicate data entry.
Q7. What is the most reliable HR software for mid-sized companies?
HiBob, and RUN Powered by ADP are favored by mid-sized businesses for their stability, scalability, and compliance management features. Users value their robust reporting tools and ability to handle multi-location or multi-state workforces without performance issues.
Q8. What is the best human resources system?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but G2 reviewers consistently rank Rippling, BambooHR, and HiBob among the top HR systems due to their usability, automation, and breadth of features covering the full employee lifecycle.
Q9. What is the leading HR software for managing employee data?
BambooHR, HiBob HRIS, and RUN Powered by ADP are leading options for managing employee data, offering secure storage, clear organization structures, and integrated workflows that keep records, payroll details, and compliance documents accurate and easy to access.
Don’t lose your core focus
After thoroughly evaluating the best core HR software, I’ve seen how the right platform can completely transform how HR teams work. Each solution brings something unique, whether it’s automating onboarding, centralizing employee data, integrating payroll, or improving compliance. With so many strong options out there, there’s a solution for every team size, growth stage, and industry.
But here’s the truth: even with great HR practices, relying on spreadsheets or outdated systems leads to bottlenecks, errors, and compliance risks. Without reliable software, HR teams get stuck in repetitive admin work instead of focusing on people and strategy. With the right tool, though, you can streamline workflows, keep data accurate, and give your team time back to focus on what really matters. But HR doesn’t stop there. Once you’ve set up a strong core system, the next step is choosing the right background check software. Reliable screening tools help you stay compliant, move faster on offers, and protect your organization.
Ready to take the next step? Check out my colleague’s guide to the best background check software and see which tools can make your hiring process even smoother.
