20 Best Applicant Tracking Systems Reviewed
Table of Content
Introduction
ATS Software Review
1.Workable
2.Greenhouse
3.Zoho Recruit
4.Breezy HR
5.Recruitee
6.Freshteam
7.Lever
8.Teamtailor
9.iCIMS
10.Bullhorn
11.Recruit CRM
12.BambooHR
13.JazzHR
14.SmartRecruiters
15.Manatal
16.Jobvite
17.Rippling
18.Workday Recruiting
19.Odoo Recruitment
20.OpenCATS
ATS Comparison Table (2025)
Best ATS by Business Type
Future of Applicant Tracking Systems
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right ATS for You
Introduction: Why the Right ATS Matters in 2025
ATS Software Review
But with hundreds of options on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming especially when you’re juggling budgets, team sizes, and integration needs. That’s why we’ve done the research for you.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll review the 20 best ATS software available in 2025 comparing features, pros, cons, pricing, and best-fit use cases for every business type. Whether you’re a startup looking for affordable applicant tracking systems, a staffing agency managing multiple clients, or a growing company scaling your hiring, this guide will help you find the perfect match.
1. Workable - Best Overall ATS for Growing Businesses
Overview
Workable continues to dominate the small and mid-sized business market with its intuitive design and scalable hiring features. It’s an all-in-one solution that helps HR teams attract, evaluate, and hire candidates efficiently.
If you’re a growing business looking to professionalize your hiring without the enterprise-level complexity, Workable strikes the perfect balance between functionality and simplicity.
Key Features
- 700+ customizable job description templates
- AI-assisted sourcing suggestions
- One-click job posting to 200+ job boards
- Video interviews and candidate assessments
- Detailed analytics and pipeline reports
Pros
✅ Extremely user-friendly interface
✅ Built-in automation and candidate communication tools
✅ Scales easily for small to mid-sized businesses
Cons
❌ Pricing increases with team size
❌ Limited CRM-style relationship management features
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for the Standard plan. Custom plans available for larger organizations.
Verdict
If you’re new to ATS software or upgrading from spreadsheets, Workable is one of the best ATS software options to modernize hiring without heavy setup. It’s ideal for small companies scaling fast or teams seeking structure and efficiency.
2. Greenhouse - Best ATS for Enterprise Hiring and DEI
Overview
Greenhouse is a powerhouse in structured hiring, designed for organizations that take data, diversity, and candidate experience seriously. It’s trusted by leading enterprises like HubSpot and DoorDash for its ability to standardize hiring and reduce unconscious bias.
Key Features
- Customizable interview workflows and evaluation forms
- DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) analytics dashboard
- Integration with 400+ HR tools
- Robust API for enterprise customization
- Candidate experience tracking and reporting
Pros
✅ Excellent analytics and reporting
✅ Advanced DEI and bias-reduction tools
✅ Integrates with nearly every HR ecosystem
Cons
❌ Steeper learning curve for new users
❌ Premium pricing for smaller teams
Pricing
Greenhouse pricing is quote-based. Expect higher costs suited for mid-to-large enterprises.
Verdict
Greenhouse stands out among the best applicant tracking systems for its focus on fairness and data integrity. It’s perfect for enterprise-level teams seeking accountability and measurable recruitment performance.
3. Zoho Recruit - Best ATS Software for Small Businesses
Overview
Zoho Recruit is an affordable, cloud-based ATS designed for small and medium-sized businesses. It brings automation, customization, and CRM-level functionality into one sleek interface.
If you’re a small company or startup that needs a professional system without breaking the bank, Zoho Recruit is one of the most affordable applicants tracking systems for startups.
Key Features
- Resume parsing and candidate scoring
- AI-powered “Zia” assistant for predictions
- Built-in job board integrations
- Customizable workflows and templates
- Integration with Zoho CRM and other HR tools
Pros
✅ Cost-effective for startups and SMBs
✅ Easy to use and customize
✅ Cloud-based and mobile-friendly
Cons
❌ Limited reporting on lower-tier plans
❌ Interface can feel dated in some areas
Pricing
Free plan available. Paid plans start at $30 per recruiter/month.
Verdict
Zoho Recruit is among the best ATS software for small businesses that want automation, affordability, and CRM integration. It’s ideal for teams that prioritize customization and scalability.
4. Breezy HR - Best Visual ATS for Collaboration
Overview
Breezy HR brings a refreshing, visual take on recruitment management. Its drag-and-drop pipeline lets users move candidates through hiring stages with ease, making it perfect for teams that thrive on collaboration.
Startups and creative companies love Breezy HR for its simplicity, automation, and strong emphasis on candidate experience.
Key Features
- Drag-and-drop candidate pipelines
- Built-in video interviewing and scheduling
- Automated email workflows and reminders
- Analytics dashboard for team performance
- Chrome extension for sourcing
Pros
✅ Intuitive design with minimal learning curve
✅ Great for remote and collaborative teams
✅ Offers a free plan with core features
Cons
❌ Limited customization on lower plans
❌ Reporting could be more detailed
Pricing
Free plan for small teams. Paid plans start at $157/month.
Verdict
If you’re looking for the best ATS for small business that prioritizes user experience and team collaboration, Breezy HR delivers a perfect balance of simplicity and power.
5. Recruitee - Best ATS for Small Companies Scaling Fast
Overview
Recruitee is built for growing teams that need structure, collaboration, and automation. It combines recruitment marketing, pipeline management, and team evaluation tools – all within a clean, modern interface.
Its flexibility and integration options make it one of the best ATS software for small companies preparing for rapid expansion.
Key Features
- Collaborative hiring workflows
- Custom roles and permissions
- Built-in talent sourcing tools
- Recruitment analytics and dashboards
- Integration with Slack, Zoom, and calendar tools
Pros
✅ Excellent for multi-role collaboration
✅ Modern interface and mobile app
✅ Data-rich dashboards for decision-making
Cons
❌ Slightly higher pricing for small startups
❌ Limited CRM features compared to dedicated solutions
Pricing
Starts at $269/month, with customizable team options.
Verdict
Recruitee strikes a great balance between structure and scalability. It’s ideal for small-to-mid-sized businesses that need flexibility, automation, and growth-ready recruitment tools.
6. Freshteam - Best Free ATS for Startups and Small Teams
Overview
Freshteam, by Freshworks, has quickly become one of the most popular choices for startups and small businesses looking for an affordable applicant tracking system. It’s designed for teams that want automation, simplicity, and integrated HR tools – all without a big learning curve or heavy price tag.
The platform’s biggest advantage is its free plan, which supports up to 50 employees. That makes Freshteam a perfect starting point for startups building their first recruitment process or HR teams that need to streamline hiring without stretching budgets.
Key Features
- Resume management and automated parsing
- Job posting to multiple boards (LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Indeed)
- Candidate tracking with drag-and-drop pipelines
- Built-in employee onboarding tools
- Integration with other Freshworks products (CRM, Helpdesk, Payroll)
Pros
✅ Free forever plan for small teams
✅ Intuitive dashboard and minimal setup
✅ Combines ATS, onboarding, and HR management in one
Cons
❌ Limited customization on free plan
❌ Reporting and analytics basic compared to enterprise tools
Pricing
Free plan for up to 50 employees. Paid plans start at $59/month and scale affordably.
Verdict
If you’re a startup or small company just beginning to formalize your hiring, Freshteam is one of the best applicant tracking systems for small business owners – offering incredible value with no setup cost.
7. Lever - Best ATS for Talent Relationship Management (TRM)
Overview
Lever stands out as one of the few ATS platforms that blends applicant tracking with talent relationship management (TRM). This hybrid approach helps companies not only manage active applicants but also nurture long-term relationships with potential candidates.
For HR teams that want to balance automation with personalization, Lever delivers a high-quality user experience, detailed analytics, and automation that feels human.
Key Features
- AI-powered candidate recommendations
- Centralized candidate database with tagging
- Nurture campaigns and automated follow-ups
- DEI reporting and hiring analytics
- Integration with major HR tools (BambooHR, Slack, G Suite, etc.)
Pros
✅ Excellent for candidate relationship-building
✅ Strong analytics and customizable dashboards
✅ Streamlined workflows for recurring recruitment
Cons
❌ Expensive for small teams
❌ Advanced reporting locked behind higher-tier plans
Pricing
Custom pricing based on company size. Demo available upon request.
Verdict
Lever is one of the best ATS software options for companies with consistent hiring needs. If your HR team focuses on long-term candidate engagement, it’s a powerful choice that turns recruitment into relationship-building.
8. Teamtailor - Best ATS for Employer Branding and Candidate Experience
Overview
Teamtailor is a modern, visually stunning ATS built to help startups and mid-sized companies attract talent through great branding. It’s not just an applicant tracker – it’s a marketing tool for your employer brand.
From custom career pages to candidate communication, Teamtailor focuses on making hiring feel personal and engaging, which is critical for attracting top tech and creative talent.
Key Features
- Drag-and-drop career page builder
- Branded application forms and candidate portals
- Built-in email campaigns and nurturing workflows
- Analytics to track candidate engagement
- Collaboration tools for HR and hiring managers
Pros
✅ Gorgeous interface and easy customization
✅ Excellent employer branding tools
✅ Great for startups and creative companies
Cons
❌ Slight learning curve for design features
❌ Lacks deep analytics compared to enterprise tools
Pricing
Pricing is custom, depending on company size and hiring volume.
Verdict
If your company values design, culture, and candidate experience, Teamtailor is easily one of the best ATS software for small companies focused on branding and engagement. It’s particularly loved by startups and tech-driven businesses.
9. iCIMS - Best Enterprise-Grade ATS for Large Organizations
Overview
For enterprises that need reliability, scalability, and compliance, iCIMS is often the gold standard. It’s a veteran in the ATS industry, trusted by companies like Microsoft and UPS for managing global hiring operations.
iCIMS is built for high-volume recruitment, integrating deeply with HRIS and payroll systems while offering advanced analytics, DEI monitoring, and automation features.
Key Features
- AI-powered resume parsing and job matching
- Global compliance and GDPR tools
- Custom workflows for multi-department hiring
- Predictive analytics and talent insights dashboard
- Integrations with Workday, Oracle, and SAP
Pros
✅ Excellent for large enterprises with complex hiring workflows ✅ Deep analytics and compliance tools
✅ Seamless integration with other enterprise HR software
Cons
❌ Too advanced for small businesses
❌ Premium pricing (quote-based only)
Pricing
Custom pricing for enterprise customers.
Verdict
If your company recruits at scale or across multiple regions, iCIMS is one of the best applicant tracking systems you can choose. It’s built for compliance, performance, and integration – the ultimate enterprise-grade ATS.
10. Bullhorn - Best ATS for Staffing and Recruitment Agencies
Overview
Bullhorn is tailor-made for staffing and recruitment agencies that need more than just applicant tracking – it combines CRM, candidate management, and automation into one robust solution.
Used by thousands of recruitment firms worldwide, Bullhorn simplifies the process of managing clients, jobs, and candidates – making it one of the best ATS for staffing agencies.
Key Features
- Built-in CRM for client and candidate management
- AI-powered candidate search and matching
- Automation for interview scheduling and email follow-ups
- Pipeline management and reporting dashboards
- Integration with LinkedIn Recruiter and job boards
Pros
✅ Ideal for recruitment and staffing firms
✅ Combines ATS + CRM capabilities
✅ Excellent automation and sourcing features
Cons
❌ Pricing on the higher side for small agencies
❌ Interface can feel outdated for new users
Pricing
Custom pricing; demos available upon request.
Verdict
For recruitment and staffing firms handling multiple clients, Bullhorn is the go-to solution. It’s purpose-built for agencies, offering unmatched CRM functionality – making it one of the best ATS for recruitment agencies in 2025.
11. Recruit CRM - Best ATS for Recruitment Agencies
Overview
Recruit CRM is an all-in-one solution designed specifically for recruiters and staffing firms. Unlike general-purpose ATS tools, it integrates candidate tracking, CRM functionality, and sales management in one intuitive platform.
The software is built to help agencies manage clients, candidates, and placements effortlessly, eliminating the need for multiple tools. Recruit CRM’s visual pipelines, automation options, and reporting features make it a favorite among boutique and mid-sized agencies worldwide.
Key Features
- Dual functionality: ATS + CRM
- Candidate and client database with easy search and tagging
- Email automation and resume parsing
- Custom pipeline views for different clients
- API and Zapier integrations
Pros
✅ Specifically designed for recruitment and staffing agencies
✅ Intuitive drag-and-drop interface
✅ Advanced client and job tracking features
Cons
❌ Limited customization in reporting
❌ Pricing higher than general-purpose ATS for small teams
Pricing
Starts at $85 per user/month with a free trial available.
Verdict
Recruit CRM is easily one of the best ATS for recruitment agencies in 2025. It bridges the gap between applicant tracking and client relationship management – ideal for agencies managing multiple client projects simultaneously.
12. BambooHR - Best ATS for Integrated HR Management
Overview
BambooHR is more than an ATS – it’s a complete HR software suite built for small and medium-sized businesses. It combines applicant tracking, employee data management, performance tracking, payroll, and onboarding into one clean platform.
For companies that want their recruitment and HR data in a single place, BambooHR provides unmatched simplicity and integration.
Key Features
- Streamlined hiring workflows with custom stages
- Built-in employee records and document storage
- Performance management and time tracking
- Mobile-friendly interface
- Integrations with Slack, Google Workspace, and payroll systems
Pros
✅ Combines ATS, HRIS, and payroll
✅ Highly intuitive and easy for non-HR users
✅ Ideal for businesses growing their HR infrastructure
Cons
❌ ATS features not as advanced as dedicated systems
❌ Limited customization for job posting workflows
Pricing
Custom pricing upon request. Demo available.
Verdict
For small and mid-sized businesses seeking a simple, all-in-one HR and recruiting platform, BambooHR is one of the best applicant tracking systems with built-in HR functionality. It’s perfect for HR teams that want to streamline everything under one login.
13. JazzHR - Best Customizable ATS for Small Businesses
Overview
JazzHR is a long-standing favorite among SMBs looking for a customizable and affordable ATS. It’s designed for hiring teams that value flexibility – you can tailor pipelines, automate emails, and adjust workflows for different departments with ease.
JazzHR offers big-business functionality at small-business pricing, making it a top contender among the best ATS software for small business.
Key Features
- Custom hiring stages and templates
- Automated email sequences and approvals
- Interview scheduling and team collaboration
- Reporting and compliance tracking
- Integration with job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn
Pros
✅ Budget-friendly and transparent pricing
✅ Fully customizable hiring pipelines
✅ Strong support and onboarding resources
Cons
❌ Lacks advanced AI-based resume screening
❌ Interface slightly dated compared to newer tools
Pricing
Plans start at $75/month, with higher tiers for automation and analytics.
Verdict
JazzHR delivers the perfect balance between simplicity, flexibility, and affordability. It’s an excellent choice for companies looking for the best ATS for small business without compromising on customization or control.
14. SmartRecruiters - Best ATS for Global and Enterprise Hiring
Overview
SmartRecruiters is built for organizations that hire at scale. It’s a global, enterprise-grade platform that combines AI-powered candidate matching, automated workflows, and multilingual support – making it ideal for companies with large HR teams or international operations.
The software focuses on delivering measurable hiring outcomes through advanced analytics and seamless integration across HR systems.
Key Features
- AI-based job matching and resume screening
- Global job posting across 300+ boards
- Collaborative hiring and internal mobility tools
- Candidate relationship management (CRM)
- Custom reporting dashboards
Pros
✅ Enterprise-grade performance and reliability
✅ Highly customizable for complex organizations
✅ AI-powered insights for data-driven hiring
Cons
❌ Overwhelming for small teams
❌ Expensive compared to SMB-focused platforms
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing. Free demo available.
Verdict
SmartRecruiters is one of the best applicant tracking systems for large companies managing hundreds of hires per year. Its scalability and automation capabilities make it the go-to platform for global hiring teams.
15. Manatal - Best AI-Powered ATS for Modern Recruitment
Overview
Manatal is one of the fastest-growing ATS platforms in 2025 – combining simplicity, AI intelligence, and affordability. It’s designed for modern hiring teams that want automation without the complexity of enterprise systems.
Manatal’s biggest advantage is its AI-powered candidate scoring system, which ranks applicants based on job fit and skills. It’s especially loved by tech startups, agencies, and small companies that want to hire smarter.
Key Features
- AI-based candidate recommendations
- Resume enrichment with social data (LinkedIn, GitHub, etc.)
- Drag-and-drop pipelines and custom workflows
- Cloud-based with offline access
- Integration with job boards and HR tools
Pros
✅ Affordable yet feature-rich
✅ Excellent use of AI and machine learning
✅ Clean, modern interface
Cons
❌ Limited analytics in basic plans
❌ Few advanced integrations compared to enterprise systems
Pricing
Starts at $19/month per user, making it one of the most affordable ATS systems available.
Verdict
Manatal is perfect for startups and small HR teams looking for the best ATS software that combines smart automation with affordability. It’s sleek, intelligent, and built for the modern recruiter.
16. Jobvite - Best ATS for Analytics and Data-Driven Hiring
Overview
If your HR team loves data, you’ll love Jobvite. This platform goes beyond basic tracking – it turns your recruitment pipeline into an insight engine. Built for growing teams and large enterprises, Jobvite uses automation and analytics to optimize every stage of hiring.
What makes it stand out is its focus on recruitment marketing, candidate engagement, and data visualization – making it one of the best applicant tracking systems for performance-driven teams.
Key Features
- AI-powered candidate matching
- Advanced analytics and reporting dashboards
- Employee referral management
- Social recruiting tools
- Mobile-friendly candidate experience
Pros
✅ Best-in-class analytics and reporting
✅ Great for high-volume and data-driven hiring
✅ Supports employee referrals and internal mobility
Cons
❌ Pricing not transparent (custom quotes only)
❌ Slight learning curve for small HR teams
Pricing
Custom pricing available upon request.
Verdict
Jobvite is ideal for HR teams that want visibility into what’s working and what’s not. Its strength lies in analytics, automation, and scalability – perfect for companies focused on improving their recruitment ROI.
17. Rippling - Best ATS for Unified HR and IT Management
Overview
Rippling isn’t just an ATS – it’s an all-in-one HR, payroll, and IT management platform. Designed for modern, remote, and fast-growing companies, Rippling helps HR teams manage every part of the employee lifecycle – from recruitment to offboarding – in one place.
The beauty of Rippling’s system is integration. When you hire someone, the platform can automatically set up their payroll, email, and even laptop access. This seamless automation makes it one of the best ATS software choices for fast-scaling startups and tech-driven organizations.
Key Features
- Built-in ATS with onboarding and payroll tools
- Automated device and app setup for new hires
- Job posting and candidate tracking
- Compliance and document management
- Integrates with 500+ HR and IT tools
Pros
✅ Unified HR, payroll, and IT system
✅ Excellent for onboarding automation
✅ Great for remote and hybrid teams
Cons
❌ ATS module less advanced than dedicated solutions
❌ Can feel overwhelming due to the breadth of features
Pricing
Custom pricing based on modules selected.
Verdict
Rippling is a one-stop HR powerhouse. If your company wants to automate both HR and IT processes, it’s one of the most affordable applicant tracking systems for startups that value efficiency and integration.
18. Workday Recruiting - Best Enterprise ATS for Global Hiring
Overview
Workday Recruiting is built for large corporations that hire at scale and require deep integration with HR and finance. It’s a core part of the Workday ecosystem, giving companies a single source of truth across workforce planning, payroll, and recruitment.
It’s one of the best applicant tracking systems for enterprise-level organizations that demand predictive analytics, compliance, and multi-country support.
Key Features
- End-to-end recruitment management
- AI-powered talent analytics
- Built-in workforce planning and budgeting
- Mobile-first applicant experience
- Real-time insights and compliance tools
Pros
✅ Enterprise-grade analytics and scalability
✅ Seamless integration with HR and finance data
✅ Excellent compliance and data governance
Cons
❌ Costly for smaller businesses
❌ Implementation takes time and training
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing.
Verdict
If your organization operates globally and requires a unified system for HR, payroll, and recruitment, Workday Recruiting is unmatched. It’s the best ATS software for large corporations with complex hiring and compliance requirements.
19. Odoo Recruitment - Best Open-Source ATS for Customization
Overview
Odoo Recruitment is part of the broader Odoo ERP ecosystem – a modular, open-source suite used by thousands of businesses globally. For startups and tech-savvy HR teams, Odoo offers unmatched flexibility. You can customize everything: job postings, workflows, integrations, and analytics dashboards.
It’s also cost-effective, making it one of the best ATS software for small companies and affordable applicant tracking systems for startups that prefer full control over their tech stack.
Key Features
- Job posting automation
- Candidate scoring and tracking
- Workflow customization with drag-and-drop builder
- Integration with other Odoo modules (HR, Payroll, CRM, Accounting)
- Community support and API access
Pros
✅ 100% customizable and open-source
✅ Integrates with entire Odoo suite
✅ No license fees for community version
Cons
❌ Requires technical setup and maintenance
❌ Interface not as modern as SaaS platforms
Pricing
Free community version; enterprise plans start around $24/user/month.
Verdict
For tech startups or businesses with in-house developers, Odoo Recruitment is a hidden gem. It’s among the best applicant tracking systems for companies that value flexibility, open-source freedom, and scalability.
20. OpenCATS - Best Free ATS for Developers and Small Teams
Overview
If your startup runs lean and tech-savvy, OpenCATS is an open-source ATS that lets you host and control everything on your own server. Originally developed by recruiters, it’s designed for small businesses and developers who want a customizable, free system to manage applicants.
While it lacks the polish of commercial tools, its freedom and community support make it one of the most popular free ATS systems for small and growing companies.
Key Features
- Job posting and candidate management
- Resume database with search and filtering
- Open-source customization and plugin support
- Basic reporting and analytics
- Self-hosted for full data ownership
Pros
✅ 100% free and open-source
✅ No user limits or monthly fees
✅ Perfect for developers and small HR teams
Cons
❌ No official support or modern UI
❌ Requires technical setup and hosting knowledge
Pricing
Completely free.
Verdict
For startups, nonprofits, or tech teams with limited budgets, OpenCATS is one of the best free applicant tracking systems available. It’s not fancy – but it’s functional, flexible, and fully yours.
ATS Software Comparison
| ATS Software | Best For | Starting Price | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Workable | SMBs & fast-growing teams | $149/mo | Ease of use & scalability |
| Greenhouse | Enterprise hiring | Custom | DEI & analytics |
| Zoho Recruit | SMBs & startups | $30/mo | Affordable automation |
| Breezy HR | Remote & creative teams | Free / $157/mo | Collaboration tools |
| Recruitee | Scaling startups | $269/mo | Team workflows |
| Freshteam | Startups | Free / $59/mo | Free plan + HR tools |
| Lever | Mid-sized firms | Custom | Talent CRM features |
| Teamtailor | Employer branding | Custom | Candidate experience |
| iCIMS | Enterprises | Custom | Compliance & analytics |
| Bullhorn | Staffing agencies | Custom | ATS + CRM combo |
| Recruit CRM | Recruitment agencies | $85/mo | Agency workflows |
| BambooHR | SMBs | Custom | HR + ATS combo |
| JazzHR | Small businesses | $75/mo | Custom pipelines |
| SmartRecruiters | Global teams | Custom | AI hiring tools |
| Manatal | Startups | $19/mo | AI candidate scoring |
| Jobvite | Data-driven hiring | Custom | Analytics & automation |
| Rippling | Startups & SMBs | Custom | HR + IT automation |
| Workday Recruiting | Large enterprises | Custom | Predictive analytics |
| Odoo Recruitment | Tech startups | Free / $24/mo | Open-source flexibility |
| OpenCATS | Developers | Free | Fully open-source |
Here’s a quick overview of the 20 best applicant tracking systems covered in this guide:
If you’ve reached this point, you’ve probably shortlisted a few systems that fit your budget and workflow.
Before finalizing a choice, it helps to see how leading platforms compare on the details that matter – automation, pricing, integrations, and usability.
To make your evaluation easier, we’ve summarized everything in a single, research-backed resource: the 2024 ATS Battlecard.
It’s a quick-reference sheet that lets you compare 20 of the top applicants tracking systems side by side, including Greenhouse, Zoho Recruit, and Workable.
Why You Need the Right ATS Software
Recruitment today is not just about finding candidates – it’s about building relationships, ensuring fairness, and analysing data to make smarter hiring decisions. The right Applicant Tracking System (ATS) can transform how your company attracts, screens, and hires talent. Whether you’re a small startup struggling with spreadsheets or a global enterprise hiring across regions, an ATS acts as the central nervous system of your recruitment process. It helps you: • Post jobs across multiple platforms • Automate resume screening and follow-ups • Centralize candidate communication • Track metrics like time-to-hire and cost-per-hire • Deliver a consistent, professional candidate experience But not all ATS platforms are built alike – choosing the wrong one can lead to wasted time, frustrated recruiters, and poor candidate engagement. If you’re unsure how to evaluate your options, our How to Choose the Right ATS for Your Business guide walks you through the key selection factors, from pricing and scalability to integrations and support. That’s where this guide helps you pick the best ATS software for your unique needs.Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an ATS
Before diving into features, define your company’s hiring goals and workflow challenges. Then, evaluate each system based on the following key factors:-
Ease of Use
- A clean, intuitive dashboard
- Drag-and-drop pipelines
- Minimal training required for your HR team
2. Automation and AI
Modern ATS tools go beyond basic data storage. The best systems include:- AI resume parsing that understands context and skill match
- Automation workflows for sending emails, scheduling interviews, and follow-ups
- Predictive analytics that forecast candidate success
-
Integration Capabilities
- HRIS / HRMS (like BambooHR, Zoho People, Workday)
- Payroll and compliance tools
- Email and calendar apps (Gmail, Outlook, Slack)
- Job boards and CRMs
-
Candidate Experience
- Mobile-friendly application process
- Automated updates and notifications
- Clear application tracking
- Easy scheduling and communication tools
-
Scalability and Customization
- For small businesses: affordable and simple systems like Freshteam or Breezy HR
- For scaling startups: flexible tools like Recruitee or Teamtailor
- For enterprises: scalable solutions like Greenhouse or Workday Recruiting
-
Analytics and Reporting
- Custom reporting dashboards
- Source tracking (job boards, referrals, etc.)
- Conversion and time-to-hire metrics
- Diversity and inclusion analytics
-
Support and Training
- Dedicated customer support
- Video tutorials and live chat
- Implementation assistance
Best ATS by Business Type
1. Best for Startups
- Freshteam – Free plan, simple and effective
- Manatal – AI-powered, affordable, and sleek
- Zoho Recruit – Easy automation and integration
📌 Why: Startups need low-cost systems with automation and scalability. These platforms let small teams hire like pros.
2. Best for Small Businesses
- Breezy HR – User-friendly and visual
- JazzHR – Fully customizable workflows
- Recruitee – Great for teams managing multiple roles
📌 Why: Small businesses thrive on simplicity. These ATS tools eliminate repetitive tasks and help HR teams stay organized.
3. Best for Staffing Agencies
- Bullhorn – ATS + CRM in one
- Recruit CRM – Agency-specific workflows
- Manatal – Ideal for automation and analytics
📌 Why: Agencies juggle multiple clients. These platforms provide CRM functionality to manage both candidates and clients efficiently.
4. Best for Enterprises
- Greenhouse – Enterprise-grade analytics
- iCIMS – Compliance and scalability
- Workday Recruiting – Deep integration with HR and finance
📌 Why: Enterprises need power, integration, and control. These systems offer customization, compliance, and global scalability.
Common Mistakes When Choosing an ATS
❌ Focusing only on price: Cheaper doesn’t always mean better.
❌ Ignoring integration needs: A standalone ATS creates more work later.
❌ Skipping demos: A hands-on test helps uncover usability issues.
❌ Not involving end users: Recruiters and hiring managers must love it too.
Future of Applicant Tracking Systems
- AI Will Dominate Recruitment Expect smarter AI-driven candidate matching, where the system predicts cultural fit, soft skills, and long-term retention potential. Tools like Manatal and SmartRecruiters already lead the way.
- Automation Will Eliminate Repetitive Tasks Future ATS platforms will handle everything from resume sorting to first-round communication – allowing recruiters to focus on strategy and engagement.
- Data Will Drive Every Hiring Decision Analytics dashboards will evolve into predictive talent intelligence systems, helping HR leaders anticipate future skill gaps and workforce needs.
- The Rise of Candidate-Centric Hiring ATS platforms will focus more on candidate experience, transparency, and personalization – mirroring consumer-grade digital experiences.
- Integration with HR Ecosystems The future of ATS isn’t about working alone – it’s about interconnected
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right ATS for You
The perfect ATS depends on your company’s stage, team size, and hiring goals.
If you’re a startup, go for tools like Freshteam, Zoho Recruit, or Manatal for automation on a budget.
If you’re a staffing agency, Bullhorn and Recruit CRM are built for you.
And if you’re an enterprise, platforms like Greenhouse or Workday Recruiting will give you the scalability and compliance you need.
Ready to Choose Smarter, Not Harder?
You’ve explored how leading ATS platforms compare in features, pricing, and usability – but the right choice often comes down to seeing everything side by side.
Instead of juggling multiple tabs or reviews, get a complete visual comparison in one place.
Our 2024 ATS Battlecard compiles the top 20 applicant tracking systems – ranked, reviewed, and matched to your business type.
It’s simple, visual, and built to help startups, staffing agencies, and growing teams choose smarter – not harder.