16 Best Cloud-Based HRIS Reviewed in 2025
10 Best Cloud-Based HRIS Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 16 tools reviewed.
Get free help from our HR software advisors to find your match.
In the fast-paced world of HR, managing your team's needs can feel overwhelming. It's a lot to juggle, from payroll headaches to tracking employee records. That's where a cloud-based HRIS steps in, making your job a little easier.
I’ve tested and reviewed these systems to bring you the best options out there. In my experience, a great HRIS can automate tedious tasks, save you time, and reduce stress.
In this article, I'll share my top picks for cloud-based HRIS solutions. I'll focus on each tool's features and how it can address your specific challenges. My goal is to give you an unbiased, straightforward review so you can make the best choice for your team.
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Best Cloud-Based HRIS Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top cloud-based HRIS selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for global payroll | Free demo available | Flat rate user pricing, with a free version for businesses with up to 200 people | Website | |
| 2 | Best for customizable workflows | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 3 | Best for payroll integration | Free demo available | From $40/month + $6/user/month | Website | |
| 4 | Best for large enterprises | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 5 | Best for talent management | Free trial + free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 6 | Best for employee engagement | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for recruitment tools | Free plan available | From $2/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 8 | Best for workforce analytics | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for global operations | 30-day free trial | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 10 | Best for IT and HR integration | Free demo available | From $8/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
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HiThrive
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.6 -
Guru
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.6 -
Absorb LMS
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.6
Best Cloud-Based HRIS Review
Below are my detailed summaries of the best cloud-based HRIS that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Deel is cloud-based HR software tailored for businesses managing international payroll and compliance. It facilitates global hiring and payment processes for companies of all sizes.
Why I picked Deel: Deel is ideal for managing global payroll, making it easier for your team to hire and pay employees in different countries. Its compliance management ensures adherence to local laws. Automated payroll processing saves time and reduces errors. Additionally, Deel supports multiple currencies, simplifying international transactions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include contract management, automated invoicing, and compliance support. Contract management lets you create and store agreements easily. Automated invoicing helps you keep track of payments. Compliance support ensures you meet local legal requirements.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, BambooHR, Rippling, Greenhouse, Lever, Workable, Gusto, Slack, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Efficient invoicing system
- Automated contract creation
- Supports multiple currencies
- Strong compliance features
- Simplifies global payroll management
Cons:
- Occasional delays in support response
- Some features need technical knowledge
- Learning curve for new users
- Initial setup can be complex
- Limited customization options
GoCo is HR software for small—to medium-sized businesses. It focuses on HR management and benefits administration and helps you efficiently handle onboarding, payroll, and compliance tasks.
I picked GoCo: GoCo is known for its customizable workflows, allowing you to tailor processes to fit your team’s unique needs. The onboarding feature lets you automate new hire paperwork. Its payroll integration ensures smooth salary processing. GoCo's compliance tools help you effortlessly keep up with regulatory changes.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include time-off tracking, document storage, and performance management. Time-off tracking lets your team request and manage leave easily. Document storage keeps all your HR files organized in one place. Performance management tools support regular employee reviews and feedback.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Slack, Gusto, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Xero, Zoom, Dropbox, BambooHR, and ADP.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flexible time-off tracking
- Centralized document management
- Strong compliance support
- Efficient onboarding process
- Highly customizable workflows
Cons:
- Reporting features could be enhanced
- Occasional system updates are needed
- Requires some technical knowledge
- Initial setup can be time-consuming
- Limited advanced features
Gusto is a cloud-based HRIS platform for small and midsize businesses' payroll, benefits, and HR management. It supports day-to-day HR tasks, from hiring and onboarding to compliance and employee recordkeeping.
Why I picked Gusto: Gusto excels in payroll integration, making it ideal for businesses needing reliable payroll solutions. Its automatic payroll tax filing saves time and reduces errors. Employee benefits management also makes it easy to offer competitive packages. Gusto's compliance support helps your team stay up-to-date with the latest regulations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include employee self-service, time tracking, and document management. Employee self-service empowers your team to manage their own information. Time tracking helps you monitor hours worked accurately. Document management ensures you can effortlessly store and organize important files.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, TSheets, Clover, FreshBooks, Expensify, Deputy, When I Work, Trainual, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable payroll settings
- Strong compliance support
- User-friendly interface
- Simple benefits administration
- Automatic tax filing feature
Cons:
- No mobile app for employees
- Limited international payroll options
- Occasional customer support delays
- Basic reporting tools
- Limited advanced HR features
Workday is a cloud-based HRIS that offers comprehensive solutions for human capital management and financial management tailored for large enterprises. It supports complex HR needs such as workforce planning, talent management, and payroll processing.
Why I picked Workday: Workday is designed for large enterprises needing extensive HR capabilities. Its workforce planning tools help you manage a large team effectively. Talent management features allow you to develop and retain top talent. Additionally, its payroll processing ensures accuracy across multiple locations, making it suitable for global operations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced analytics, configurable dashboards, and a talent marketplace. Advanced analytics provide insights into workforce trends. Configurable dashboards let you customize data views to meet your needs. The talent marketplace connects your team with internal opportunities.
Integrations include Salesforce, Slack, Microsoft Teams, ServiceNow, Okta, Coupa, Adaptive Insights, Cornerstone, LinkedIn Learning, and Adobe Sign.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Scalable for enterprise needs
- Comprehensive talent management
- Flexible reporting options
- Detailed workforce analytics
- Strong global payroll support
Cons:
- High cost for small businesses
- Some customizations need IT support
- Requires ongoing training
- Steep learning curve
- Complex initial implementation
SAP SuccessFactors is a human capital management (HCM) software for enterprises focusing on talent management and HR processes. It helps you manage employee performance, learning, and recruitment effectively.
I picked SAP SuccessFactors: SAP SuccessFactors is ideal for talent management, with features that support your team’s growth and development. The performance management module lets you track employee progress and goals. Learning management provides training resources to upskill your team. Additionally, the recruiting module helps you find and onboard top talent efficiently.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include succession planning, workforce analytics, and goal setting. Succession planning ensures you’re prepared for future leadership changes. Workforce analytics provide insights into your team’s performance and needs. Goal setting helps align individual objectives with company strategies.
Integrations include Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, LinkedIn, DocuSign, Adobe Sign, Slack, ServiceNow, Salesforce, Zoom, and SuccessFactors Recruiting.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Scalable for large organizations
- Detailed workforce analytics
- Effective succession planning tools
- Comprehensive learning management
- Strong focus on talent development
Cons:
- Some features need IT support
- Limited customization in some areas
- High learning curve
- Requires continuous training
- Complex initial setup
HR Cloud is a cloud-based HRIS designed for businesses that focus on employee engagement and workforce management. It helps you effectively manage onboarding, employee communication, and performance tracking.
Why I picked HR Cloud: HR Cloud excels in enhancing employee engagement, providing tools that foster a connected workplace. Its employee self-service portal allows your team to access and update their information. The onboarding module ensures new hires integrate smoothly into your team. Additionally, HR Cloud's communication tools keep everyone informed and engaged.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include task management, recognition programs, and survey tools. Task management helps your team stay organized and on track. Recognition programs allow you to acknowledge and reward employee achievements. Survey tools provide insights into employee satisfaction and areas for improvement.
Integrations include Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, ADP, QuickBooks, Xero, BambooHR, Salesforce, DocuSign, and Zoom.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports employee recognition programs
- Comprehensive task management
- Customizable communication tools
- Effective onboarding process
- Strong focus on employee engagement
Cons:
- Occasional system updates needed
- Reporting tools need improvement
- Requires some technical expertise
- Initial setup can be complex
- Limited advanced HR features
TalentHR is an all-in-one HR tool designed for businesses looking to streamline their recruitment and employee management processes. It is geared toward startups and small businesses and offers features that simplify hiring, onboarding, and performance tracking.
Why I picked TalentHR: TalentHR excels in recruitment tools, providing an efficient way to manage candidate applications and onboarding. Its applicant tracking system organizes and optimizes hiring workflows. The platform’s people analytics offer insights into your team’s performance. Additionally, its customizable features allow you to tailor the system to your specific recruitment needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include time-off tracking, employee performance management, and asset management. Time-off tracking automates leave requests and updates schedules. Employee performance management facilitates regular feedback and reviews. Asset management centralizes the tracking of company resources.
Integrations include BambooHR, Slack, Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, QuickBooks, Xero, Dropbox, Zoom, Salesforce, and LinkedIn.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports anonymous reporting of concerns
- Easy to set up and use
- Customizable to fit business needs
- Comprehensive people analytics
- Efficient applicant tracking system
Cons:
- Requires ongoing user training
- Basic reporting tools could improve
- Occasional updates needed
- Some features require technical knowledge
- Limited advanced HR features
UKG Pro is an HR and workforce management solution for large enterprises focusing on comprehensive human capital management and workforce analytics. It supports your team's HR needs, including payroll, talent management, and time tracking.
Why I picked UKG Pro: UKG Pro excels in workforce analytics, providing valuable insights for your business. Its reporting tools help you make data-driven decisions. The talent management module supports your team’s growth and engagement. Additionally, its payroll system ensures accuracy and compliance, making it a reliable choice for large organizations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include employee self-service, compensation management, and performance reviews. Employee self-service empowers your team to manage their own information. Compensation management helps you develop competitive pay structures. Performance reviews provide a framework for continuous feedback and development.
Integrations include Microsoft Teams, Salesforce, Slack, Google Workspace, LinkedIn, DocuSign, Adobe Sign, Zoom, QuickBooks, and SAP.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable reporting tools
- Strong payroll compliance
- Scalable for large enterprises
- Comprehensive talent management
- Detailed workforce analytics
Cons:
- Some modules need IT support
- Limited flexibility in some features
- Requires ongoing training
- Steep learning curve
- Complex implementation process
Oracle is a cloud-based HCM solution for large enterprises focusing on global HR and talent management. It helps you manage complex HR tasks such as payroll, recruiting, and workforce planning across multiple regions.
Why I picked Oracle: Oracle is tailored for global operations, ensuring your team can manage HR functions worldwide. Its global payroll feature supports compliance in various countries. The recruiting module lets you attract and hire talent from different regions efficiently. Workforce planning tools help you allocate resources on a global scale, making it ideal for international businesses.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include performance management, learning and development, and compensation planning. Performance management helps track and develop employee skills. Learning and development tools support the continuous growth of your team. Compensation planning ensures fair and competitive pay structures.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft 365, LinkedIn, Adobe Sign, Slack, Zoom, DocuSign, SAP, Google Workspace, and QuickBooks.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Scalable for large enterprises
- Customizable reporting tools
- Strong compliance features
- Comprehensive workforce planning
- Extensive global payroll capabilities
Cons:
- Limited flexibility in some modules
- High cost for smaller businesses
- Requires ongoing technical support
- Steep learning curve
- Complex implementation process
Rippling is a platform that combines workforce management, payroll, and IT tools into one system for businesses of all sizes. It handles tasks like payroll, benefits administration, and device management, offering a unified platform for your team.
Why I picked Rippling: Rippling is unique for integrating HR and IT functions, making it a versatile choice. It allows you to manage employee devices and apps alongside payroll. Automated onboarding also ensures new hires have the necessary tools from day one. This dual capability helps you save time by consolidating HR and IT workflows.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable reporting, time and attendance tracking, and a mobile app for on-the-go management. Customizable reporting gives you insights tailored to your needs. Time and attendance tracking keeps your team’s hours organized. The mobile app lets you manage HR tasks wherever you are.
Integrations include Slack, QuickBooks, Xero, Salesforce, Expensify, GitHub, Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Zoom, and Dropbox.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time data updates
- Scalable for growing businesses
- Flexible onboarding options
- Automated device management
- Combines HR and IT functions
Cons:
- Some features require technical knowledge
- Occasional system lag
- Limited customization in some areas
- Learning curve for new users
- Initial setup can be complex
Other Cloud-Based HRIS
Here are some additional cloud-based HRIS options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist but are still worth checking out:
- BambooHR
For small businesses
- Paycor
For payroll features
- factoHR
For mobile workforce management
- Keka HR
For payroll automation
- Ramco Systems
For global HR operations
- NETtime Solutions
For time and attendance tracking
Cloud-Based HRIS Selection Criteria
When selecting the best cloud-based HRIS to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like data security and scalability. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Manage employee records
- Process payroll
- Track time and attendance
- Handle employee benefits
- Facilitate performance reviews
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
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- Advanced analytics and reporting
- Customizable workflows
- Mobile access for remote employees
- AI-driven insights
- Integrated learning management
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface design
- Easy navigation
- Minimal learning curve
- Responsive design for mobile devices
- Availability of help resources
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Pre-built templates for setup
- Access to webinars and tutorials
- Support from chatbots or live agents
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- Availability of 24/7 support
- Multiple support channels
- Quick response times
- Access to a knowledge base
- Quality of customer service interactions
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Features offered at each price tier
- Flexibility in pricing plans
- Hidden costs or fees
- Discounts for annual subscriptions
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Frequency of positive feedback
- Common issues reported by users
- Satisfaction with customer support
- Ease of implementation experiences
- Recommendations by existing users
How to Choose Cloud-Based HRIS
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
| Scalability | Ensure the system can grow with your team. You'll want a solution that can handle increasing data and user counts without performance issues. |
| Integrations | Check for compatibility with your existing tools. Smooth data flow between systems can save time and reduce errors. |
| Customizability | Look for features that allow you to tailor the system to your specific needs. Custom workflows and fields can make the software fit your processes better. |
| Ease of Use | Consider the learning curve for your team. An intuitive interface can reduce training time and improve adoption rates. |
| Budget | Align the software's cost with your financial plan. Look for a pricing model that fits your budget without hidden fees. |
| Security Safeguards | Prioritize data protection with strong security measures. Ensure the vendor offers encryption, regular backups, and compliance with data regulations. |
| Support | Evaluate the quality and availability of customer support. Quick, effective help can be crucial when issues arise. |
| Mobile Access | Determine if the software offers a mobile app or responsive design. Your team may need to access the system on the go. |
Trends in Cloud-Based HRIS
In my research, I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs from different cloud-based HRIS vendors. Here are some of the emerging trends I’m keeping an eye on:
- AI-driven analytics: AI is being used to provide deeper insights into workforce data, helping you make informed decisions faster. Vendors like Workday use AI to predict employee turnover and optimize workforce planning.
- Employee wellness programs: More HRIS systems integrate wellness features to support employee health. These include mental health resources and fitness tracking. SAP SuccessFactors, for example, offers tools to promote employee well-being.
- Remote work support: As remote work becomes the norm, HRIS tools enhance features for managing distributed teams. This includes virtual onboarding and remote performance tracking. Deel, a global HRIS provider, offers solutions specifically designed for international remote teams.
- Skill development platforms: HRIS vendors incorporate skill-building tools to foster continuous learning. These platforms help employees upskill and stay competitive. TalentHR integrates learning management to support ongoing employee development.
- Personalized employee experiences: HRIS customization is growing to cater to individual employee needs and preferences. This trend enhances engagement by offering tailored user experiences. Oracle HCM Cloud allows the personalization of dashboards and workflows.
What Is Cloud-Based HRIS?
Cloud-based HRIS is a software solution that helps manage various HR tasks and data through an online platform. HR professionals, managers, and business owners typically use these tools to handle employee records, payroll, and benefits. Features like AI-driven analytics, employee wellness programs, and remote work support help with decision-making, employee health, and managing distributed teams. Overall, these tools offer efficient management of HR processes and improve workforce productivity.
Features of Cloud-Based HRIS
When selecting cloud-based HRIS, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- AI-driven analytics: Provides insights into workforce data for informed decision-making.
- Employee wellness programs: Supports employee health with mental health resources and fitness tracking.
- Remote work support: Facilitates managing distributed teams with virtual onboarding and performance tracking.
- Skill development platforms: Helps employees upskill and stay competitive with continuous learning tools.
- Personalized employee experiences: Enhances engagement by offering tailored user experiences.
- Time-off tracking: Automates leave requests and updates schedules efficiently.
- Performance management: Facilitates regular feedback and employee reviews.
- Customizable workflows: Allows you to tailor processes to fit your specific business needs.
- Compliance management: Ensures adherence to local laws and regulations across different regions.
- Mobile access: Enables access to HR tools on the go, supporting remote work environments.
Benefits of Cloud-Based HRIS
Implementing cloud-based HRIS provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Improved decision-making: AI-driven analytics provide insights to help you make informed choices.
- Enhanced employee engagement: Personalized experiences and wellness programs boost morale and productivity.
- Efficient remote management: Remote work support features make managing distributed teams easier.
- Streamlined compliance: Compliance management ensures you meet local and international regulations.
- Continuous learning: Skill development platforms keep your team competitive and motivated.
- Time savings: Automated processes like time-off tracking and payroll reduce administrative tasks.
- Flexibility and scalability: Customizable workflows and scalable solutions grow with your business needs.
Costs and Pricing of Cloud-Based HRIS
Selecting cloud-based HRIS requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in cloud-based HRIS solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Cloud-Based HRIS
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic employee records, simple time tracking, and limited reporting. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$25/user/month | Employee self-service, basic payroll processing, and standard compliance tools. |
| Business Plan | $30-$60/user/month | Advanced analytics, performance management, and customizable workflows. |
| Enterprise Plan | $70-$120/user/month | Global payroll support, personalized employee experiences, and AI-driven insights. |
Cloud-Based HRIS FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about cloud-based HRIS:
What are the limitations of the HRIS system?
HRIS systems can be expensive to implement, with high initial investment and maintenance costs. You might need to budget for software licensing and training expenses. These systems can also require significant time and resources to set up and customize. Additionally, some users find that certain features are limited or not as flexible as desired.
What are the three types of HRIS?
There are three main types of HRIS systems: operational, tactical, and strategic. Operational HRIS focuses on daily HR activities like payroll and employee records. Tactical HRIS supports mid-term HR tasks such as recruitment and training. Strategic HRIS aids in long-term planning and decision-making, aligning HR goals with business objectives.
How does a cloud-based HRIS improve data security?
Cloud-based HRIS systems enhance data security by offering features like data encryption and regular backups. These measures protect sensitive employee information from unauthorized access. Cloud providers often comply with industry standards and regulations, ensuring your data is secure and meets legal requirements.
Can cloud-based HRIS support remote work?
Yes, cloud-based HRIS systems are well-suited for remote work environments. They provide access to HR tools and data from anywhere with an internet connection. This flexibility helps your team manage HR tasks, like time tracking and performance reviews, even when working from different locations.
What should I consider when migrating to a cloud-based HRIS?
When migrating to a cloud-based HRIS, evaluate the system’s compatibility with your existing tools. Assess the training resources available to help your team transition smoothly. Look for a provider that offers support during the migration process to address any technical challenges that may arise.
How do I choose the right cloud-based HRIS for my business?
To choose the right cloud-based HRIS, consider factors like scalability, integration capabilities, and cost. Assess your team’s specific HR needs and look for a system that aligns with those requirements. It’s also important to read customer reviews and request demos to see how the system functions in practice.