The best applicant tracking systems reduce hiring time by 50% while improving candidate quality, but only if you choose the right one for your specific needs. If you’re managing scattered resumes, losing qualified candidates to competitors, or spending entire days just scheduling interviews, you need more than just any ATS, you need the system that matches your hiring volume, budget, and team structure. From resume parsing that actually works to interview scheduling that doesn’t require constant email exchanges, the right ATS transforms messy hiring into a smooth, predictable process.

Whether you’re a 10-person startup competing for talent against larger companies or a growing business trying to hire 50+ people without overwhelming your team, choosing the wrong system can cost you months and quality hires. This guide breaks down the top applicant tracking systems for 2025, with real pricing (including those hidden add-on costs), clear assessments of what actually works, and specific recommendations based on company size and hiring patterns. You’ll get the insights you need to make a confident decision without getting lost in feature lists or sales pitches.

What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software that automates your hiring workflow from job posting to final offer. Instead of managing resumes in email folders and tracking candidates on spreadsheets, an ATS centralizes everything in one platform.

• Resume screening: Automatically scans resumes for required skills and experience
• Candidate tracking: Shows where each applicant stands in your hiring process
• Interview coordination: Schedules interviews and sends automated reminders
• Team collaboration: Lets hiring managers share feedback and notes on candidates

ATS platforms serve companies of all sizes, from startups managing their first hires to enterprises processing thousands of applications monthly. HR departments, recruiting agencies, and hiring managers rely on these systems to handle increasing application volumes without expanding their teams.

Features of Applicant Tracking Systems

Finding the right candidate for each role can be a challenging journey, involving many steps from posting job openings to scheduling interviews. Applicant Tracking Systems helps you manage this process smoothly by tracking, screening, and engaging with candidates. To help you find the best ATS for your needs, here are the most important features to look for:

• Resume Screening: ATS software automatically scans and sorts resumes by searching for keywords and skills that match your job descriptions. This feature allows hiring managers to quickly identify top candidates without having to read every resume individually, speeding up the hiring process.
• Job Posting Automation: Automatically publishes your job opening across multiple job boards and social platforms. Instead of manually posting to Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor separately, you handle everything from one dashboard.
• Talent Pools: Builds a database of qualified candidates for future positions. When you find good applicants who aren’t quite right for the current role, you can tag them for upcoming opportunities instead of starting recruitment from scratch.
• Team Collaboration: Essential for companies where multiple people interview candidates. Features like shared comments, candidate ratings, and interview scorecards ensure everyone’s input gets captured and considered during decision-making.
• Interview Scheduling: Integrates with calendars to automatically send interview invites, confirmations, and reminders to candidates and interviewers. Eliminates scheduling conflicts and reduces no-show rates by 60%.
• Workflow Automation: Handles repetitive tasks like sending interview reminders, follow-up emails, and rejection letters. More advanced systems let you customize these workflows based on your specific hiring process, saving 5-10 hours per week on admin tasks.
• Candidate Screening Tools: Includes resume parsing, skill assessments, and ranking systems to help you compare qualified candidates side-by-side. This goes beyond basic keyword matching to evaluate actual fit for the role through pre-screening questions and assessments.
• Analytics and Reporting: Tracks metrics like time-to-hire, source effectiveness, and candidate drop-off rates. Shows which job boards produce your best hires and where candidates exit your process, helping you optimize recruitment spend and identify bottlenecks.
• Software Integrations: Connects with your existing HR tools, email systems, calendars, and background check providers. Prevents data silos and creates a smoother workflow for your team. Look for pre-built integrations with tools you already use.
• Compliance Management: Automatically maintains hiring records for EEOC requirements and tracks diversity metrics. Essential for companies with 15+ employees to avoid legal issues and demonstrate fair hiring practices during audits.
• Communication Tools: Built-in email templates, SMS notifications, and candidate portals that keep applicants informed throughout the hiring process. Improves candidate experience and reduces drop-off rates by maintaining engagement.

Utilizing an Applicant Tracking System with these essential features can significantly enhance your recruitment strategy. It saves time, improves collaboration, and helps you find the best talent for your organization, making your hiring process more efficient and effective.

Top 10 Applicant Tracking Systems in 2025

These ATS platforms offer the best combination of features, pricing, and user experience based on real-world performance and customer feedback:

1. Greenhouse

Overview: Greenhouse is an advanced Applicant Tracking System (ATS) designed for businesses looking to enhance their collaborative hiring efforts. It provides a comprehensive platform that integrates seamlessly with other HR tools, making it easier for teams to work together throughout the recruitment process.

Key Features:

• Structured Hiring: Greenhouse emphasizes a structured hiring approach, allowing users to create detailed interview kits and scorecards for consistent evaluation.
• Collaborative Feedback: The platform enables team members to leave feedback and comments directly on candidate profiles, promoting transparency and collective decision-making.
• Integration Capabilities: Greenhouse integrates with various HR and productivity tools, streamlining the recruitment workflow and enhancing overall efficiency.

Ideal For: Greenhouse is best for midsized to large teams looking for a collaborative hiring solution. Its emphasis on teamwork and structured processes makes it suitable for organizations that prioritize input from multiple stakeholders in the hiring process.

Pros:

• Enhanced collaboration features.
• Robust reporting and analytics.
• Flexible integration options with third-party tools.

Cons:

• Can be more complex to set up initially.
• May be expensive for smaller businesses.

Integrations: Greenhouse integrates with popular tools like Slack, Zoom, and various HR management systems, ensuring a smooth workflow throughout the hiring process.

2. Pinpoint

Overview: Pinpoint is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) that focuses on delivering a user-friendly experience for in-house talent acquisition teams. Its design is centered around enhancing the candidate experience while providing powerful tools for recruiters.

Key Features:

• Candidate-Centric Design: Pinpoint’s interface prioritizes candidate engagement, ensuring a smooth application process that reflects well on your employer brand.
• Customizable Workflows: Users can tailor their hiring workflows to align with their specific needs, making it easy to adapt the system as requirements change.
• Real-Time Collaboration: The platform enables real-time collaboration among team members, facilitating quicker feedback and decision-making.

Ideal For: Pinpoint is ideal for in-house talent acquisition teams with a strong user-centric mentality. It’s perfect for organizations that value the candidate experience and seek a flexible ATS that adapts to their unique processes.

Pros:

• Excellent user experience for candidates.
• Highly customizable workflows.
• Strong focus on collaboration.

Cons:

• Limited features compared to larger ATS platforms.
• May require training for new users.

Integrations: Pinpoint integrates seamlessly with tools like LinkedIn, Google Drive, and various HR platforms to streamline the recruitment process.

3. BambooHR

Overview: BambooHR offers an integrated Applicant Tracking System (ATS) within its HRIS platform. This combination provides mid-sized businesses with a comprehensive solution for managing their employee lifecycle from recruitment to onboarding.

Key Features:

• Integrated HR Functions: BambooHR combines ATS capabilities with essential HR functions, allowing for smooth transitions from hiring to employee management.
• User-Friendly Interface: The platform’s intuitive design makes it easy for HR teams to navigate and utilize all features effectively.
• Reporting and Analytics: BambooHR provides detailed reporting tools to help businesses analyze their hiring processes and make data-driven decisions.

Ideal For: BambooHR is best for mid-sized businesses looking for an integrated ATS within a broader HR management system. Its dual functionality simplifies managing employee data while streamlining the hiring process.

Pros:

• Comprehensive HR management in one platform.
• Easy to use with a clean interface.
• Strong reporting capabilities.

Cons:

• Limited advanced features for larger enterprises.
• May lack depth in some ATS functionalities.

Integrations: BambooHR integrates with payroll software, benefits management tools, and other HR applications, enhancing its usability as a complete HR solution.

4. VidCruiter

Overview: VidCruiter is a versatile Applicant Tracking System (ATS) specifically designed for large enterprises that conduct extensive hiring, especially those with over 100 hires per year.

Key Features:

• Video Interviewing Tools: VidCruiter specializes in video interviewing, offering features that allow recruiters to conduct asynchronous interviews with candidates.
• Automated Scheduling: The system automates scheduling and notifications, reducing the administrative burden on HR teams.
• Customizable Workflows: Users can create workflows tailored to their unique hiring processes, ensuring that all steps align with organizational standards.

Ideal For: VidCruiter is ideal for large enterprises with significant hiring needs. Its robust features and emphasis on efficiency make it a strong choice for organizations looking to streamline their recruitment efforts.

Pros:

• Excellent video interviewing capabilities.
• Highly customizable for complex hiring processes.
• Automation features save time and reduce errors.

Cons:

• Maybe more than smaller organizations need.
• Can be costly for some users.

Integrations: VidCruiter integrates with various HR software, including payroll systems and onboarding tools, to provide a seamless hiring experience.

5. Workable

Overview: Workable is a robust Applicant Tracking System (ATS) that leverages AI-powered sourcing tools to simplify the hiring process. It provides businesses with intuitive features that enhance recruitment efficiency.

Key Features:

• AI Sourcing: Workable’s AI features help identify the best candidates based on job descriptions and past hiring data.
• Collaborative Hiring: The platform supports collaboration among team members, allowing for shared feedback and streamlined decision-making.
• Customizable Workflows: Recruiters can create workflows tailored to their hiring processes, ensuring consistency and organization.

Ideal For: Workable is suited for small to medium-sized businesses looking for an easy-to-use platform that offers robust features and AI enhancements.

Pros:

• Powerful AI features for sourcing candidates.
• User-friendly interface.
• Good collaboration tools.

Cons:

• Some users may find it lacking in advanced features.
• Pricing can be a concern for startups.

Integrations: Workable integrates with numerous job boards, social media platforms, and HR tools, ensuring a comprehensive recruitment approach.

6. SparkHire

Overview: SparkHire is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) that specializes in video interviewing features, making it an excellent choice for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) seeking to enhance their recruitment process.

Key Features:

• Video Interviewing: SparkHire allows for both live and recorded video interviews, enabling recruiters to assess candidates more effectively.
• Interview Scheduling: The platform simplifies scheduling interviews, ensuring a smoother hiring process for both candidates and recruiters.
• Collaborative Feedback: Team members can share their thoughts on candidates after interviews, fostering a team-based approach to hiring.

Ideal For: SparkHire is best for SMBs looking for an ATS that integrates video interview capabilities into their hiring process, making it easier to connect with candidates.

Pros:

• Strong focus on video interviewing.
• Easy-to-use scheduling features.
• Collaborative feedback options.

Cons:

• Limited ATS features compared to comprehensive systems.
• May not integrate with all HR software.

Integrations: SparkHire integrates with major job boards and HR tools, allowing for easy candidate sourcing and management.

7. ClearCompany:

Overview: ClearCompany is a flexible Applicant Tracking System (ATS) designed to accommodate the needs of mid sized and large teams. It provides a comprehensive suite of recruitment tools to streamline the hiring process.

Key Features:

• Customizable Features: ClearCompany offers a wide range of customization options to fit the specific needs of various organizations.
• Advanced Reporting: The system provides detailed analytics and reports on recruitment metrics, helping organizations optimize their hiring strategies.
• Onboarding Integration: ClearCompany integrates seamlessly with onboarding tools, facilitating a smooth transition for new hires.

Ideal For: ClearCompany is ideal for midsized and large teams looking for a highly flexible ATS that can adapt to their specific recruitment processes.

Pros:

• Highly customizable and adaptable.
• Strong analytics and reporting features.
• Seamless onboarding process.

Cons:

• Can be overwhelming for new users.
• Pricing may not be suitable for smaller businesses.

Integrations: ClearCompany integrates with a variety of HR tools, including payroll and performance management systems, enhancing its functionality.

8. JazzHR

Overview: JazzHR is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) that caters to organizations ranging from startups to established businesses. Its features are designed to streamline the hiring process and improve candidate management.

Key Features:

• User-Friendly Interface: JazzHR’s intuitive design allows users to navigate easily, making recruitment more efficient.
• Collaboration Tools: The platform supports collaboration among team members, enabling shared feedback and candidate evaluation.
• Customizable Job Listings: Users can create and customize job listings to attract the right candidates effectively.

Ideal For: JazzHR is best for organizations with 5 to 500 employees that need a flexible and user-friendly ATS to manage their hiring process effectively.

Pros:

• Affordable pricing for small businesses.
• Easy to use with a clean interface.
• Strong collaboration features.

Cons:

• Some advanced features may be lacking.
• Limited integration options.

Integrations: JazzHR integrates with various job boards

9. Breezy HR

Overview:
Breezy HR is an intuitive and visually appealing ATS that helps businesses manage the entire hiring process from job posting to onboarding. It focuses on providing a seamless candidate experience.

Key Features:

• Drag-and-Drop Pipeline: Easily manage candidates with a visual pipeline that allows for quick updates.
• Candidate Engagement: Automated email sequences keep candidates informed and engaged throughout the hiring process.
• Job Boards Integration: Post jobs on various job boards and social media channels with ease.
• Customizable Career Pages: Create a branded career site to attract potential candidates.

Pricing:
Breezy HR offers a free version for small teams and paid plans starting at $171/month for advanced features.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface.
• Strong emphasis on candidate engagement.
• Visual pipeline for easy management.

Cons:

• Limited reporting features in the lower tiers.
• The free version has restricted functionalities.

10. SmartRecruiters

Overview:
SmartRecruiters is a powerful, cloud-based ATS that aims to streamline the recruiting process for companies of all sizes. It focuses on providing a complete hiring platform with innovative features.

Key Features:

• Collaborative Hiring: Allows teams to collaborate with real-time feedback and communication tools.
• AI-Powered Features: Uses AI to improve candidate sourcing and matching.
• Mobile Recruiting: Users can manage the recruitment process from mobile devices.
• Marketplace Integration: Access to an extensive marketplace for third-party integrations.

Pricing:
SmartRecruiters offers a free version for small teams, with paid plans starting at $100/month for additional features.

Pros:

• User-friendly and modern interface.
• Extensive marketplace for additional tools.
• Strong mobile access.

Cons:

• Some features may require third-party integrations.
• Can become costly for larger teams.

Best Applicant Tracking Systems in 2025: Comparison Chart

Compare pricing and key features of the top ATS platforms to find the best fit for your budget and hiring needs.

ATS	Starting Price	Free Trial	Key Features	Best For
BambooHR	$99/month (for up to 12 employees)	Yes	Applicant tracking, onboarding, reporting, self-service	Small to medium-sized businesses
Greenhouse	Custom pricing	Yes	Customizable interview kits, collaboration, reporting	Companies prioritizing candidate experience
Workable	$99/month (per job)	Yes	Multi-platform job posting, resume parsing, analytics	Startups and growing companies
Jobvite	Custom pricing	Yes	Social recruiting, referral programs, analytics	Organizations focusing on social recruiting
Lever	$3,000/year (minimum)	Yes	Collaborative hiring, customizable pipelines, reporting	Teams looking for collaborative hiring
SmartRecruiters	Free for 1 user; $100/month for additional users	Yes	Job board integrations, candidate experience tools	Organizations needing a user-friendly platform

How to Select Applicant Tracking System

Selecting the right ATS requires matching system capabilities to your specific hiring needs and budget constraints. Here’s a step-by-step approach to find the platform that delivers the best results:

Step	What to Do	Key Considerations
Assess Your Current Hiring Volume	Analyze how many positions you fill annually and typical application volume per job posting	Small companies (5-15 hires yearly) need basic features; organizations with 100+ hires require advanced automation and reporting capabilities
Identify Your Biggest Pain Points	List your most time-consuming hiring tasks	If resume screening takes hours, prioritize ATS platforms with strong parsing and filtering. If scheduling interviews creates bottlenecks, focus on systems with calendar integration and automated reminders
Set Your Budget Parameters	Factor in implementation costs, training time, and potential integration fees	ATS pricing ranges from free basic plans to enterprise solutions costing thousands monthly. The mandatory benefit of improved hiring efficiency often justifies higher upfront costs through reduced time-to-hire
Evaluate Essential Features	Match features to your workflow needs	Resume screening, job posting distribution, team collaboration tools, mobile accessibility, compliance tracking for employment law requirements
Test Before Committing	Take advantage of free trials and demos	Upload sample resumes, create test job postings, and invite team members to evaluate the interface. Pay attention to how intuitive the system feels and integration capabilities
Consider Scalability	Choose an ATS that grows with your business	Ensure the platform can handle higher volumes without requiring a complete system change within two years
Check Integration Requirements	Verify compatibility with current systems	Confirm compatibility with HR software, email systems, and payroll platforms. Seamless data flow prevents duplicate work and reduces errors

Benefits of Using Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a powerful tool that can greatly enhance your hiring process. By automating tasks and improving communication, an ATS offers several significant benefits that can help you attract and hire the best talent. Here are the key advantages of using an ATS:

• Reduces Hiring Time: Automates resume screening, interview scheduling, and candidate communications. Instead of spending weeks on administrative tasks, you focus on actual candidate evaluation and decision-making
• Improves Candidate Quality: An ATS enhances candidate quality by utilizing advanced filtering and screening capabilities. You can search for specific skills, qualifications, and experience to ensure you only consider applicants who meet your job requirements. This leads to better hiring decisions and a higher quality of hires, improving your overall staffing solutions.
• Streamlines Job Posting: Posting job openings can be time-consuming and cumbersome. An ATS allows you to publish job listings across multiple job boards and social media platforms with just a few clicks. This broader reach increases your visibility and attracts more applicants, giving you a larger talent pool to choose from.
• Provides Valuable Insights and Analytics: Many ATS solutions offer reporting and analytics features that provide insights into your recruitment metrics. You can track important data like time-to-fill, candidate sources, and application rates. This information helps you refine your recruitment strategy and make data-driven decisions.
• Enhances Candidate Experience: A smooth and efficient hiring process reflects positively on your organization. Candidates appreciate quick responses and seamless communication. By using an ATS, you can provide a better experience for applicants, increasing their likelihood of accepting an offer and spreading positive word-of-mouth about your company.
• Reduces Hiring Costs: While investing in an ATS may require some upfront costs, it can lead to significant savings in the long run. By improving the efficiency of your hiring process, you can reduce costs associated with prolonged vacancies and high turnover rates, ultimately benefiting your bottom line.
• Ensures Compliance: Automatically maintains hiring records and tracks diversity metrics required by employment laws. Prevents costly discrimination lawsuits by standardizing your hiring process and creating proper audit trails for employment law requirements.

Trends in Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

As the job market evolves, so do the tools used to navigate it. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) have become essential for organizations seeking to streamline their recruitment processes and improve hiring efficiency. The latest trends in ATS reflect the increasing need for adaptability, technology integration, and an enhanced candidate experience. By adopting these trends, companies can not only attract top talent but also promote a more inclusive and engaging recruitment environment.

• AI and Automation: Modern ATS are increasingly using artificial intelligence to automate repetitive tasks. AI helps screen resumes, quickly identifying top candidates based on skills and experience. Automation also streamlines processes like scheduling interviews, allowing recruiters to focus on building relationships.
• Mobile Optimization: With more job seekers using smartphones, ATS platforms are optimizing for mobile. Candidates can easily apply, upload resumes, and receive instant updates on their applications. A mobile-friendly experience attracts a wider range of applicants, particularly younger generations.
• Enhanced Candidate Experience: Improving the candidate experience is a key trend in ATS development. User-friendly interfaces guide applicants through the process, while personalized communication keeps them engaged. Feedback mechanisms allow candidates to share their thoughts, enhancing the overall recruitment experience.
• Remote Hiring Solutions: The rise of remote hiring has led to ATS integrating features that support virtual hiring. Built-in video interviewing tools and collaborative hiring options facilitate effective remote recruitment. This approach helps companies access a global talent pool.
• Focus on Diversity and Inclusion: ATS are evolving to promote diversity and inclusion in hiring. Features like blind recruitment minimize unconscious bias during the selection process. Many systems also track diversity metrics, enabling companies to evaluate their hiring practices.
• Integration with HR Technologies: Modern ATS are integrating with various HR technologies to streamline workflows. This integration allows for seamless data transfer, reducing errors and duplication. Centralized data access helps HR teams make informed decisions throughout the hiring process.

Conclusion

The right Applicant Tracking System transforms messy hiring into an organized, efficient process that saves time and improves candidate quality. Whether you’re managing five hires per year or fifty, an ATS eliminates manual tasks like resume sorting and interview scheduling while helping you identify the best candidates faster. Your selection should align with your hiring volume, budget, and team size. Small businesses benefit from basic candidate tracking and job posting features, while larger organizations need advanced analytics and compliance tools. Focus on solving your current hiring pain points rather than paying for features you won’t use.

A good ATS pays for itself through reduced time-to-hire, lower recruitment costs, and better hiring outcomes. More importantly, it frees your team to focus on what matters mostevaluating candidates and building relationships that lead to successful long-term hires. The investment in recruitment technology today determines your ability to compete for top talent tomorrow. Pick an ATS that grows with your business and supports your hiring goals for years to come.

FAQs

What does an applicant rracking system (ATS) do?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a software tool that helps businesses manage the hiring process efficiently. It organizes resumes and job applications, allowing HR teams to track candidates throughout the recruitment journey. The ATS collects applications from various sources, analyzes them for key information, and makes it easier for hiring managers to identify the best candidates. It also streamlines communication by helping employers schedule interviews and keep notes in one centralized location, ultimately improving the overall candidate experience.

How can i choose the right ATS for my business?

To select the best ATS for your business needs, consider your company size and specific hiring requirements. Small businesses might benefit from user-friendly and budget-friendly systems, while larger organizations may require more advanced features and customization options. It’s essential to read user reviews, try out demos, and evaluate customer support services. Look for an ATS that aligns with your hiring strategy, such as remote hiring or high-volume recruitment.

How much does an ATS system cost?

The cost of an Applicant Tracking System can vary widely, typically ranging from around $99 to over $1,000 per month, depending on features and the size of your business. Basic systems are suitable for small companies looking to streamline their hiring process, while mid-range and premium options offer more comprehensive capabilities, including advanced analytics and reporting features. Some ATS solutions charge based on the number of users or job postings, so be sure to read the pricing details carefully to find the best fit for your budget.

Can i test an ATS before buying it?

Yes, many ATS providers offer free trials or demos of their software. This allows you to explore the features and usability before making a financial commitment. During the trial period, take advantage of the opportunity to test resume uploads, job postings, and candidate communication features. Assess how well the ATS integrates into your existing recruitment process and whether it meets your organization’s needs.

Is an ATS suitable for small businesses?

Absolutely! An ATS is beneficial for small businesses, as it automates time-consuming tasks and simplifies the recruitment process. Many ATS solutions are specifically designed for smaller companies, offering affordable options that help streamline hiring. By leveraging an ATS, small business owners can focus on finding the right candidates without getting overwhelmed by the administrative workload.

How does an ATS help with hiring?

An Applicant Tracking System significantly speeds up the hiring process by organizing job applications in one easy-to-navigate platform. It allows hiring managers to efficiently track candidates throughout their application status, from submission to hiring. By automating repetitive tasks such as resume screening and interview scheduling, an ATS enables hiring teams to concentrate on identifying the best talent while improving overall communication with candidates.

Can an ATS integrate with other HR tools?

Yes, most ATS solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly with other HR tools, including payroll systems and performance management software. This capability creates a more efficient workflow, ensuring that information flows smoothly between systems. By integrating an ATS with your existing HR tools, you can save time, reduce errors, and enhance your overall recruitment process, contributing to a more effective HR strategy.