20 Best Applicant Tracking Systems of 2025 (Tested & Reviewed)
If you’re buried in spreadsheets or fumbling with clunky software, you’re not alone.
The average time to hire has jumped to 44 days worldwide, but for top candidates?
They’re off the market in just 10.
That means by the time you finally get around to scheduling interviews, your best options may already be gone.
To make matters worse, recruiters are spending up to 70% of their time on admin tasks. We're talking things like formatting resumes, juggling calendars, and chasing down feedback.
It’s no wonder the whole process feels broken.
That’s where the right ATS comes in.
You need an ATS that truly streamlines hiring, and this list will get you there:
Discover 20 top-rated ATS for 2025
Key features that actually matter
Pros and cons based on hands-on experience
Transparent pricing breakdowns (where available)
Scroll down to find the one that fits. Your next ATS is waiting.
P.S. If you’re looking for recruiting help beyond software, the team at Alpha Apex Group can fill your pipeline fast. We combine tech with actual headhunting firepower, reach out, and let’s talk results.
TL;DR: Top ATS Software Tools and Systems
BambooHR: Simple, clean ATS for small teams
Manatal: Affordable AI features for growing companies
Greenhouse: Enterprise-grade control, pricey but powerful
Pinpoint: Fast, flexible, made for in-house teams
Spark Hire: Video-first hiring, easy to use
Zoho Recruit: Budget ATS + CRM combo
Apploi: Built for fast healthcare hiring
AvaHR: Easy, modern ATS with branding tools
Workable: Full-featured suite with AI sourcing
JazzHR: Great for lean teams on a budget
Lever: ATS meets CRM, strong collaboration focus
Hireology: Multi-location hiring with onboarding built-in
Fountain: High-volume hiring with mobile-first design
SmartRecruiters: Full TA suite for global teams
Ashby: All-in-one, data-driven recruiting platform
Avature: Enterprise-level customization, seriously powerful
VidCruiter: Video interviews + end-to-end automation
iCIMS: Enterprise-ready with deep reporting tools
Recruit CRM: Agencies love this ATS-CRM hybrid
Recruitee: Collaborative hiring with drag-and-drop ease
What is ATS Software?
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is like your hiring command center.
It streamlines the entire recruitment process. Everything, including posting jobs and collecting resumes, tracking candidates, long-term candidate engagement, and scheduling interviews.
Instead of juggling multiple platforms, everything is centralized.
Why Consider an ATS?
If you’re wondering whether investing in an ATS is worth it, the numbers speak for themselves.
Here are some key reasons companies are making the switch:
Widespread adoption: Nearly 99% of Fortune 500 companies utilize ATS to manage their hiring processes.
Efficiency boost: Companies using ATS fill job vacancies 20% faster than those who don't.
Quality of hire: 78.5% of organizations report that ATS has increased the quality of their hiring.
Cost savings: Small businesses can save up to $10,000 with ATS in their recruitment processes.
Compliance and reporting: Automated compliance reporting through ATS tools reduces manual labor costs, enhances accuracy, and mitigates risks associated with non-compliance.
No matter how many qualified candidates you're hiring, ATS makes the process smoother and smarter.
A Deep Dive into Each Top-Rated Applicant Tracking System
If you're looking for an advanced system with a complete approach that will help your long-term planning, keep reading below.
1. BambooHR
BambooHR’s ATS is made for small and midsize teams that want something clean, simple, and already baked into their HR stack.
It covers the basics well: job posting, potential candidates tracking, and automated emails, but don’t expect power features.
If you’re a startup or growing company just trying to move qualified candidates along without a mess, this gets the job done.
But if you’re juggling high-volume roles or need advanced features in the application process, it’ll feel limited.
No built-in interview scheduling, no video interviews, and not much in the way of deep customization or automation features.
Still, it wins on ease of use and smooth integration with the rest of BambooHR.
Key Features:
Fully integrated with BambooHR's HR suite
Automated communication templates
Custom offer letter builder
Mobile hiring app
Multi-board job posting
Applicant stage and performance tracking
Basic analytics and reporting
✅Pros:
Super intuitive and easy to use
Works seamlessly with BambooHR’s core HR system
Mobile app makes hiring way more flexible
Speeds up communication with auto emails
❌Cons:
No native interview scheduling or video tools
Limited workflow customization
Not built for large or complex orgs
Pricing lacks transparency
Pricing info: BambooHR has custom pricing that begins at around $3,000, structured on a per-employee, per-month basis. Companies have secured rates as low as $8 per employee, though pricing typically ranges from $12 to $14 per employee per month for those utilizing the full HRIS along with some additional modules.
Why we recommend BambooHR?
If you’re already using BambooHR or need a no-fuss recruiting platform that works out of the box, this is a smart, lightweight pick. It won’t scale with aggressive hiring teams, but for small orgs, it covers the essentials without friction in the application process.
2. Manatal
Manatal is one of those ATS tools that feels modern right out of the box. It’s built for speed, easy to navigate, and packs a surprising punch with AI automation features that most platforms charge way more for.
The AI-powered matching and social media enrichment tools actually help, which makes sense when you consider that 42% of companies now check candidates’ social media profiles during hiring.
It’s great for companies that want qualified candidate insights without hiring a data team.
The built-in CRM is a bonus for recruiters who also juggle clients.
That said, if you’re big on custom workflows or picky about layout, you’ll find a few roadblocks.
Still, at this price, it’s punching way above its weight.
Key Features:
AI-driven candidate recommendations
LinkedIn and GitHub profile enrichment
Customizable pipelines
Built-in CRM for sales/recruitment crossover
Career page builder
Access to 2,500+ job boards
Detailed reporting and analytics tools
✅Pros:
Easy to use, even if it’s your first ATS
Strong feature set for the price
AI tools actually improve candidate quality
Works well with tons of integrations
❌Cons:
Customization is limited in spots
Interface can be slightly clunky at first
Support response time isn’t always consistent
💲Pricing info:
Professional: $15/user/month (billed annually) - up to 15 jobs, 10,000 candidates
Enterprise: $35/user/month - unlimited jobs/candidates, plus workflow automation
Enterprise Plus: $55/user/month - includes SSO, API access, priority support
Free 14-day trial available
Why we recommend Manatal?
If you want affordable, smart recruiting platform without the usual bloat, Manatal delivers. The AI automation features are useful, the pricing’s transparent, and it’s a great all-rounder for growing teams.
3. Greenhouse
Greenhouse is built for companies that want total control over hiring and have the budget to back it up.
Everything here is structured and intentional: scorecards, interview kits, analytics, performance tracking, etc. It’s all designed to keep your recruitment operations consistent and data-backed with essential features that support every stage of growth.
The integrations list is massive, and the DE&I tools show they’re thinking beyond just logistics.
You’ll find tools for managing candidate interactions, handling sensitive candidate information securely, and even organizing letter templates for streamlined communication. The best part is that it's all within a single platform.
But let’s be real: this is a high-end system with a high-end price tag.
If your team’s small or scrappy, it’ll probably feel like overkill.
But once it’s up and running, it’s one of the most powerful ATS platforms out there.
Key Features:
Custom scorecards and structured interview kits
Advanced analytics and reporting
500+ integrations across HR and productivity tools
Workflow automation features and task management
DE&I-focused hiring tools
GDPR compliance baked in
CRM functionality for passive candidates
✅Pros:
Super customizable hiring workflows
Excellent analytics and reporting tools
Works with nearly any tool you’re already using
DE&I features go beyond the basics
❌Cons:
Not beginner-friendly, expect a ramp-up period
Expensive, especially for smaller orgs
Some rigidness in templates and workflows
Support can lag when demand is high
💲Pricing info: Greenhouse pricing begins at around $6,000 per year. Standard agreements typically require upfront payment for one year, though discounts are offered for customers who opt to prepay for two or three years.
Why we recommend Greenhouse?
If you care about hiring with precision and have the team to manage a complex system, Greenhouse gives you serious power and flexibility. It’s not cheap, but it’s built for companies playing a long game.
4. Pinpoint
Pinpoint is made for in-house hiring teams that want to move fast, cut admin, and actually attract better candidates without a bloated system dragging them down.
The platform claims to help teams hire 40% faster, spend 80% less time on admin, and pull in 4x more qualified applicants - and for once, the claims hold weight.
It’s built to support high-volume recruiting while still giving smaller teams what they need to compete for future talent.
Custom workflows are super flexible, the UI doesn’t require a training manual, and the career site builder doesn’t feel like an afterthought.
Email integration makes candidate follow-ups effortless, and while you won’t find predictive analytics or granular insights here, the essentials are tight and well executed.
Integrations are smooth, support’s responsive, and the whole thing is designed to make your team look like pros.
Just know you won’t get deep-dive reporting, and there’s no mobile app yet.
Key Features:
Custom-branded career site builder
Drag-and-drop workflow customization
Real-time hiring analytics
Integrations with popular HR tools and job boards
Automated emails and candidate messaging
Built-in collaboration features (notes, ratings, reviews)
GDPR-compliant across the board
✅Pros:
Simple and intuitive interface
Flexible enough for different team needs
Great support team - quick and helpful
Actually reduces admin and speeds up hiring
❌Cons:
No native mobile app
Reporting lacks deeper customization
💲Pricing info:
Growth Plan: From $345/month (billed annually). Offers unlimited jobs and users, a career site builder, analytics, integrations, and standard automation features.
Enterprise Plan: From $1,200/month. Includes multi-page career sites, multilingual support, custom integrations, onboarding tools, and personalized implementation support.
Startup Discounts: Available for companies with fewer than 50 employees.
Why we recommend Pinpoint?
If you want a modern ATS that cuts hiring busywork and gives your brand a clean, pro-level presence, Pinpoint’s a solid pick. It’s especially useful for in-house teams managing multiple roles at once.
5. Spark Hire
Spark Hire is the go-to if video interviews are front and center in your hiring process. It’s built around making that part seamless, combining its well-known video tools with a full ATS setup.
You get one-way and live video interviews baked right in, plus collaborative tools to keep your team in sync.
It’s especially useful when you’re sorting through a pool of candidates and need a faster way to surface the most relevant candidates without endless back-and-forth.
The interface is easy to navigate, and pricing makes it super accessible for smaller teams.
The interface is easy to navigate, and pricing makes it super accessible for smaller teams leaning on employee referrals or simple project management workflows.
It also supports tagging and search with relevant keywords, helping you pinpoint strong candidates faster.
On the flip side, don’t expect deep reporting or wild integrations.
If your team’s big on data or needs heavy customization, this probably isn’t your forever tool, but it’s a solid upgrade from patchwork hiring.
Key Features:
Built-in one-way and live video interviews
Customizable hiring workflows
AI-assisted scheduling and content tools
Team collaboration with shared notes and feedback
Basic reporting and analytics
Mobile-friendly access
✅Pros:
Video interviews feel native, not tacked on
Straightforward UI, no training needed
Price point works well for SMBs
Great for keeping your team aligned
❌Cons:
Reporting is limited
Doesn’t integrate with as many tools as competitors
Customization is light in some areas
💲Pricing info:
Spark Hire offers four pricing tiers:
Lite: $149/month (up to 50 employees)
Pro: $299/month (up to 200 employees)
Growth: $499/month (up to 500 employees)
Enterprise: Custom quote for larger orgs
All plans include unlimited interviews and core features.
Why we recommend Spark Hire?
If video screening is a must-have and your team needs something simple, Spark Hire nails that use case. It’s affordable, intuitive, and ideal for teams that want to streamline interviews without overcomplicating things.
6. Zoho Recruit
Zoho Recruit hits that rare sweet spot between ATS and CRM, making it a strong choice for both in-house HR teams and staffing agencies.
It’s packed with recruiting software tools like AI-powered matching, screening resumes, resume parsing, and job distribution across 75+ boards. Basically, it helps you cast a wide net and get smart about sorting through it for a more efficient hiring process.
Zia, the built-in AI, is no gimmick, it actually ranks candidates by relevance with a reliable resume score, improving hiring efficiency and helping teams make quicker decisions.
The customization and integration options are solid, especially if you’re already using other Zoho tools for talent management or broader HR workflows.
Key Features:
AI candidate matching with Zia
75+ job board and social media integrations
Custom career pages and portals
Resume parsing and workflow automation
Built-in interview scheduling
Real-time dashboards and reports
Mobile app for recruiters
Deep integration with Zoho and external apps
✅Pros:
Full ATS + CRM setup in one platform
Very budget-friendly with flexible tiers
Smart AI matching that actually helps
Integrates easily with your broader tech stack
❌Cons:
Interface takes time to master
Support responses can be slow
Best features locked behind higher-tier plans
💲Pricing info:
Why we recommend Zoho Recruit?
If you want a powerful combo of ATS and CRM without blowing your budget, Zoho Recruit gives you serious functionality. It’s not the easiest system to learn, but once you’re in, it scales fast and covers almost everything.
7. Apploi
Apploi is purpose-built for healthcare hiring, and it doesn’t mess around. It automates your job posts across major and niche boards - Indeed, LinkedIn, MyCNAjobs - so your roles get in front of the right eyes fast.
That kind of targeted reach is especially useful for medium-sized businesses trying to optimize their selection process without compromising on quality.
Mobile-friendly apps and one-click apply make it easy for candidates to engage, and you can onboard them digitally with license checks and credential management baked in.
The scheduling feature is a standout - you can offer shifts selectively and share labor across multiple locations. User reviews back that up, often highlighting just how well it balances speed with healthcare-specific compliance.
According to Apploi, it cuts time-to-hire by 71% and saves 42 hours per role.
That’s not fluff, it’s built for speed and compliance.
Key Features:
Auto-posts to major + healthcare-specific job boards
Mobile-optimized with one-click apply
Digital onboarding, license + credential verification
Shift scheduling with selective shift offers
Cross-location labor sharing
Background check + payroll system integrations
Hiring analytics dashboards
✅Pros:
Designed specifically for healthcare hiring
Cuts onboarding admin with automated compliance
Mobile-first UX fits healthcare candidate behavior
Shift scheduling is a real differentiator
❌Cons:
No public pricing, gotta request a quote
Not built for non-healthcare industries
Integrations list isn’t fully transparent
💲Pricing info: Pricing is custom and based on organization size, number of locations, and feature needs. No public numbers, direct consultation required.
Why we recommend Apploi?
If you're hiring nurses, CNAs, or medical staff across multiple sites, Apploi gives you legit time savings and operational control. The healthcare-specific features make it one of the smartest tools in that vertical.
8. AvaHR
AvaHR is designed for small to mid-sized teams that want to simplify hiring without losing control.
You can post to over 50 job boards in one click, customize your career pages with real culture content, and automate repetitive stuff like candidate scoring and personalized communication through email follow-ups.
It helps maintain connections with candidates while reducing manual workload.
The UI is clean and easy to get around, which is a win for lean teams without dedicated tech support.
It’s got solid branding features and advanced tools for automation, but the mobile experience falls short, and the candidate database filter could be tighter.
While it offers some robust tools, it’s not built for deep data crunching or complex strategies for candidate tracking.
Still, it’s a smart fit for growing companies that want modern hiring tools without enterprise baggage.
Plus, it's a good starting point for running candidate surveys and improving the overall candidate journey.
Key Features:
One-click posting to 50+ job boards
Custom career pages + multimedia culture profiles
Automated scoring and communication templates
Role-based team collaboration tools
Real-time dashboards and analytics
Zapier-powered integrations
✅Pros:
Easy to use for small teams
Automation that actually saves time
Strong branding and career site features
Affordable with a free trial
❌Cons:
Lacks depth in candidate filtering
Weak mobile accessibility
Some users report minor system glitches
💲Pricing info:
Why we recommend AvaHR: If you're a growing team looking for a balance of automation, branding, and usability, AvaHR delivers a well-rounded toolset without overcomplicating the process.
9. Workable
Workable is one of those rare ATS platforms that feels enterprise-grade without being a pain to use.
It gives you access to over 200 job boards with one click, and its AI pulls from a pool of 400 million profiles to help you source passive candidates fast.
The platform tracks applicants, handles onboarding, PTO, and performance tracking with its built-in HRIS. Interview kits, scorecards, video interviews, scheduling tools, it’s all there.
The only downside is that some of the juiciest features are locked behind higher-tier plans, which might feel like a stretch if you’re on a tighter budget.
Key Features:
One-click job posting to 200+ job boards
AI sourcing from 400M+ candidate profiles
Custom interview kits, scorecards, and scheduling
Built-in HRIS for onboarding and employee data
Video interviews and skill assessments
Multi-language, mobile-optimized applications
70+ third-party integrations
✅Pros:
End-to-end hiring and onboarding in one place
Strong AI sourcing tools save time
Easy-to-use with customizable workflows
Plays well with most tools in your stack
❌Cons:
Premium features only available on top-tier plans
Might be overkill for smaller teams
Complex tools come with a learning curve
💲Pricing info:
Why we recommend Workable: If you want a full-scale recruiting engine with real AI muscle and HRIS features to match, Workable checks all the boxes. Just make sure your budget matches your ambition.
10. JazzHR
JazzHR is made for small and mid-sized teams that want to clean up their hiring process without getting buried in complexity or cost.
You get unlimited users no matter the plan, which makes team collaboration easy from the start.
It posts to 18+ major job boards and lets you expand that reach if needed.
The workflows are customizable, automation is built in, and you’ve got tools for parsing resumes, scheduling interviews, and managing offers.
Reporting is limited unless you upgrade, and it’s not trying to be an HRIS. Still, it’s affordable, intuitive, and easy to plug into your stack.
Key Features:
Unlimited users across all pricing tiers
Posts to 18+ major job boards
Custom workflows + task automation
Resume parsing + candidate tracking
Interview scheduling with calendar sync
Offer letter tools + e-sign (Pro plan)
HR tool integrations
✅Pros:
Super easy to use for lean teams
Pricing scales without gating user access
Automation helps reduce repetitive work
Collaboration feels frictionless
❌Cons:
Deeper reporting locked behind premium tiers
No built-in HRIS functionality
Some minor bugs reported by users
💲Pricing info:
Why we recommend JazzHR: If you're a growing business that needs a straightforward ATS with solid automation and team-friendly pricing, JazzHR brings the right mix of usability and value.
11. Lever
Lever blends ATS and CRM into one slick platform, making it easier to track open roles while also building long-term talent pipelines.
It's great for teams that want to go beyond reactive hiring and start thinking strategically.
The interface is intuitive, the automation reduces grunt work, and collaboration across hiring teams feels seamless.
With brands like Spotify and Netflix on board, it’s clear this isn’t some lightweight tool.
That said, reporting could use more flexibility, and the lack of a mobile app is a miss in 2025.
Still, it’s a smart choice if you're serious about both hiring now and nurturing future candidates.
Key Features:
Fully integrated ATS + CRM
Automated interview scheduling
Customizable talent pipelines
DE&I features for equitable hiring
Real-time team collaboration tools
500+ third-party integrations
Advanced analytics and dashboards
Candidate self-service portals
✅Pros:
All-in-one platform for hiring + candidate relationship building
Clean UI and strong team collaboration tools
Tons of integrations with your existing tech
Real focus on inclusive hiring
❌Cons:
Reporting tools aren’t deeply customizable
No mobile app for recruiters on the move
Pricing not publicly listed
💲Pricing info:
Lever offers custom pricing based on company size and needs. Contact their team directly to get a quote.
Why we recommend Lever: If you want one platform that can handle both immediate hiring and long-term candidate engagement, Lever gives you both without making things messy.
12. Hireology
Trusted by more than 7,500 businesses, Hireology is built for companies that hire across multiple locations and want one platform to manage it all.
It handles everything from sourcing to onboarding, with automation baked in to keep hiring teams moving fast. In fact, 70% of companies plan to use AI for hiring by the end of 2025, so this kind of tech is quickly becoming the norm.
The workflows are customizable, and it’s designed to work across industries like healthcare, retail, and automotive.
You also get built-in tools for background checks, referral management, and onboarding docs, so you’re not juggling five platforms.
Key Features:
Job posting to multiple boards
Applicant tracking with flexible workflows
Automated scheduling and candidate comms
Referral program management tools
Background checks + skills assessments
Document collection for onboarding
Reporting dashboards
Mobile app for recruiters
✅Pros:
Full hiring suite in one platform
Custom workflows fit different industries
Automation saves time on repeat tasks
Mobile app makes recruiting flexible
❌Cons:
Integrations can be tricky to implement
Some advanced features aren’t beginner-friendly
Higher-tier plans may not fit smaller budgets
💲Pricing info:
Hireology doesn’t list pricing publicly. Costs vary depending on your team size, features, and hiring volume. You’ll need to reach out to their sales team to get a tailored plan.
Why we recommend Hireology: If you manage hiring across multiple locations and want a system that handles sourcing, screening, and onboarding in one place, Hireology gives you a lot to work with.
13. Fountain Hire
Fountain is built for high-volume hiring in industries like retail, logistics, healthcare, and hospitality.
Its mobile-first design lets candidates apply and communicate via their smartphones, reducing drop-off rates.
The platform automates key stages: screening, interview scheduling, and onboarding, so your team can focus on engaging qualified candidates.
Their advanced tools, like customizable workflows and analytics, help you adapt to diverse hiring needs and make data-driven decisions.
However, some users report challenges with integrations and a learning curve during implementation.
Key Features:
Mobile-optimized application process
Automated interview scheduling and reminders
Customizable workflows per role and location
Integrated background checks and assessments
I-9 verification and onboarding tools
Analytics and reporting dashboards
Text-to-Apply functionality
AI-driven candidate screening
✅Pros:
Designed specifically for high-volume, frontline hiring
Strong automation reduces manual tasks
Mobile-first approach enhances candidate experience
Customizable workflows for different roles and locations
❌Cons:
Integration with other systems can be challenging
Some users experience a learning curve during implementation
Pricing details are not publicly disclosed
💲Pricing info:
Fountain's pricing is tailored to each organization's needs and is not publicly disclosed. For instance, some sources indicate that pricing starts at approximately $4-8 per employee per month, while others report that median annual costs can be around $27,300.
Why we recommend Fountain: If you're managing high-volume hiring and need a platform that streamlines the process while enhancing the candidate experience, Fountain offers robust automation and mobile-first features tailored for frontline industries.
14. SmartRecruiters
SmartRecruiters is built for mid-sized and enterprise teams that need more than just a basic ATS.
It’s a full Talent Acquisition Suite that covers everything from sourcing and branding to collaboration and compliance.
The interface is clean, and the platform scales well, especially if you're hiring across multiple countries.
With over 350 pre-integrated apps in its marketplace, it slots easily into most tech stacks. It also supports multi-lingual hiring and helps teams stay compliant with international standards.
That said, workflow customization is a bit limited, and a few users have reported minor tech hiccups here and there.
Key Features:
ATS with customizable pipelines
Employer branding + recruitment marketing tools
Shared candidate evaluations for collaborative hiring
350+ third-party integrations
Multi-lingual support for global teams
Analytics dashboards for hiring performance
Mobile-friendly access
International compliance tools
✅Pros:
Covers the full recruiting lifecycle
Easy to use, even for non-tech teams
Huge marketplace of integrations
Built to support international hiring
❌Cons:
Limited workflow customization
Occasional bugs or slowdowns
No public pricing, sales call required
💲Pricing info:
The yearly price for SmartRecruiters ATS starts at $10,000 and can go beyond $50,000.
Why we recommend SmartRecruiters?
For teams managing high-volume or international hiring, SmartRecruiters brings structure, branding power, and serious integration flexibility in one platform.
15. Ashby
Ashby is for teams that take hiring seriously and want everything, including ATS, CRM, scheduling, and analytics in one clean platform.
It’s built for data-driven recruiting, with automation and customization that actually reduce the manual load.
The analytics go deep, giving you visibility across every stage of the funnel so you can optimize over time.
Tools for screening resumes and applying a resume score make it easier to rank candidates and speed up the selection process.
You can tailor every job description and use communication templates to maintain consistency at scale.
The platform also supports candidate database filter options, so you can zero in on top talent fast.
Collaboration features and AI-powered outreach are baked in, making it easy to scale quality hiring without the chaos.
That makes it easier to maintain strong connections with candidates and nurture long-term candidate engagement without losing your edge.
Key Features:
All-in-one platform: ATS, CRM, scheduling, and analytics
Custom workflows + hiring automation
Detailed dashboards and funnel reporting
AI-powered sourcing + outreach
Team collaboration tools
Mobile-friendly design
Third-party integrations
✅Pros:
Covers every core function in one tool
Data and analytics are best-in-class
Workflows are fully customizable
Automation helps hiring teams stay efficient
❌Cons:
Takes time to get fully up to speed
No dedicated mobile app
Pricing may not suit early-stage startups
💲Pricing info:
Foundations Plan: Starting at $400 per month
Custom Plans: Pricing based on company size and specific needs
Why we recommend Ashby: If your team is growing fast and wants one system that does it all, without sacrificing analytics or flexibility, Ashby’s a strong pick built for scale.
16. Avature
Avature is built for large enterprises that want control over every detail of hiring and talent processes.
It’s a flexible, all-in-one platform that combines ATS, CRM, and onboarding tools. The customization goes far beyond the basics.
You can build custom workflows, dashboards, and data models that fit how your team actually works.
Not just how your software vendor thinks you should. It’s a strong option for companies that work closely with recruitment agencies or manage hiring across departments.
It helps build future talent pipelines and supports employee referrals to expand your reach.
Writing every job description with relevant keywords makes it easier to attract relevant candidates from a broad pool of candidates.
You also get tools for screening resumes and applying a resume score to help rank applicants.
A built-in candidate database filter makes managing high-volume recruiting more efficient.
It’s powerful, but there’s a learning curve.
You’ll find options for personalized communication and ready-to-go communication templates to streamline connections with candidates.
If you want serious customization, a more efficient hiring process, and room to scale with custom pricing, this recruiting software can deliver.
Key Features:
Deep customization for workflows and dashboards
Integrated ATS + CRM capabilities
AI-driven candidate matching and sourcing
Interview scheduling and task management
Automated onboarding workflows
Real-time analytics and reporting
Mobile access for recruiters and candidates
Compliance and data privacy tools
✅Pros:
Can be tailored to any enterprise hiring model
End-to-end functionality from sourcing to onboarding
Strong analytics and reporting suite
Mobile-accessible for both recruiters and applicants
❌Cons:
High learning curve due to complexity
Long setup time for advanced use cases
💲Pricing info:
Annual fees start at £60,500 for organizations with 1 to 2,500 employees and up to 20 recruitment users, with rates rising to over £260,000 per year for companies with more than 20,000 employees and 100+ recruitment users. These prices exclude implementation fees and require a minimum two-year commitment. Educational institutions are eligible for a 25% discount.
Why we recommend Avature: If you need a fully customizable recruiting engine that can flex to your hiring strategy, not the other way around, Avature gives you the tools to build exactly what you need.
17. VidCruiter
VidCruiter has ATS functionality and advanced video interviewing tools, making it a smart pick for organizations that need flexible, end-to-end hiring workflows.
It covers pre-recorded and live interviews, scheduling, reference checks, and even skills assessments, all wrapped in a system that’s built to be tailored.
That flexibility makes it work for industries like healthcare, education, and government, where hiring needs are specific and process-heavy.
That same flexibility means there’s a learning curve, especially if you’re building workflows from scratch.
Still, for teams doing remote-heavy hiring, it’s a powerful solution with legit automation muscle.
Key Features:
One-way and live video interviews
Automated scheduling and reference checks
Structured interview guides
Skills testing and evaluations
Full applicant tracking system
Custom workflow builder
Integrations with HR platforms
Mobile-ready access
24/7 support
✅Pros:
All-in-one setup with video at the core
Workflow customization fits complex hiring models
Supports full remote hiring pipelines
Automation cuts down on admin
❌Cons:
Not beginner-friendly out of the box
Pricing is behind the sales wall
Some setups may need extra integrations
💲Pricing info:
VidCruiter prices start at $1,000 annually.
Why we recommend VidCruiter?
If remote interviews, automation, and customization are high on your priority list, VidCruiter gives you the tools to build a hiring process that actually fits your workflow.
18. iCIMS
iCIMS is built for large-scale hiring teams that need serious infrastructure behind their recruitment efforts.
It’s packed with enterprise-grade recruiting software features, from AI-powered screening resumes and resume score tools, to deep integrations with over 700 HR platforms.
It’s built to handle high-volume recruiting, and it shows.
The platform supports complex workflows, approval chains, and compliance needs.
It offers advanced tools and detailed performance tracking to drive smarter decisions across every stage of the selection process.
It also improves how you source candidates and manage candidate interactions. You'll easily identify strong candidates and build a quality pool of candidates.
According to their own data, iCIMS users see a 22% reduction in time-to-fill and a 282% ROI big claims, backed by enterprise adoption.
It’s structured for efficient hiring processes at scale and comes with robust talent management features that fit large orgs and medium businesses alike.
Key Features:
AI-driven matching and recruitment automation
Customizable workflows + approval flows
Built-in CRM for talent engagement
Advanced analytics dashboards
Mobile-ready for recruiters and candidates
Over 700 integrations
Video interviewing + virtual career fairs
Compliance and security tools
✅Pros:
Covers the full recruitment lifecycle
Adaptable to complex org structures
Powerful analytics and reporting
Deep integration ecosystem
❌Cons:
Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
Pricing details are not publicly disclosed, requiring direct consultation
Some users report occasional technical glitches
💲Pricing info:
iCIMS pricing generally begins at approximately $14,000 per year.
Why we recommend iCIMS: If you're managing large, multi-team hiring operations and need enterprise-level customization, automation, and analytics, iCIMS brings the horsepower to support it.
19. Recruit CRM
Recruit CRM is built for recruitment agencies and executive search firms that need both ATS and CRM features under one roof.
It’s a solid all-in-one system with AI resume parsing, GPT-powered tools for writing optimized job descriptions, and bulk outreach features that support strong candidate relationship management and save serious time.
The automation is a real productivity booster, helping improve hiring efficiency and streamline the selection process.
This is especially useful when managing a large pool of candidates or filtering through relevant candidates.
It also supports personalized communication at scale, which makes it easier to maintain connections with candidates during the entire funnel.
With integrations to over 1,000 apps, it offers truly seamless integration, fitting into nearly any workflow, like project management and performance tracking, and ongoing talent management needs.
It’s used in 100+ countries, so it’s clearly doing something right globally.
Key Features:
ATS + CRM in one platform
AI-powered resume parsing + matching
GPT automation for job descriptions + candidate emails
Custom workflows and recruiting pipelines
Email sequencing + bulk text messaging
Advanced reporting + analytics
1,000+ third-party integrations
Mobile-ready platform
✅Pros:
Ideal for agencies needing both client + candidate tracking
Smart AI and GPT features save time
Flexible enough for specialized workflows
Global adoption + multilingual support
❌Cons:
Can take time to fully learn and configure
May be expensive for small teams
Occasional bugs reported during heavy use
💲Pricing info: Starting at 40 euros/ user/ month
Why we recommend Recruit CRM: If you’re running a recruiting agency or search firm and need powerful automation, client tracking, and AI tools in one system, Recruit CRM is built to handle all of it.
20. Recruitee
Recruitee is a collaborative hiring platform built for SMBs and growing teams that want control and clarity in their recruitment process.
The interface is intuitive, with drag-and-drop pipelines and features that actually make team-based hiring easier: shared notes, @mentions, and real-time evaluations.
The features are all designed to improve the candidate experience and streamline candidate interactions across the entire hiring process.
It’s a single platform that handles core recruitment operations while keeping things simple for lean teams.
You can post to over 1,450 job boards in one go, automate key tasks, and manage everything from a mobile app. It nails the core essentials for lean hiring teams.
The trade-offs?
While you won’t get AI-powered matching, predictive analytics, or email integration out of the box, the platform still supports seamless integration with other tools and workflows.
If you're big on long-term candidate engagement or working with sensitive candidate data, you might want to layer in additional tools for candidate relationship management or more granular insights.
And yes, no built-in texting could be a miss if your team is sourcing potential candidates or engaging job seekers at scale.
Still, for efficient hiring processes and hiring efficiency without enterprise bloat, it’s a smart, scalable option.
Especially for teams looking for recruiting software that delivers clarity and consistency from project management to performance tracking.
Key Features:
Customizable drag-and-drop hiring pipelines
One-click posting to 1,450+ job boards
Collaboration tools: shared notes, mentions, evaluations
Automated workflows and task triggers
Mobile app for recruiters on the move
Event scheduler for interviews
E-signature support for offers
Analytics and reporting tools
✅Pros:
Easy to learn, easy to navigate
Excellent tools for hiring team collaboration
Highly customizable workflows
Massive reach through job board integrations
❌Cons:
No built-in AI matching
Missing native SMS/texting tools
Reporting tools could go deeper
💲Pricing info:
Why we recommend Recruitee: If you’re building a hiring process that’s team-first and easy to scale, Recruitee offers just the right mix of usability, automation, and collaboration without going overboard.
What to Look For When Choosing ATS Software
Not all ATS platforms are created equal, and picking the wrong one can slow your hiring down even more.
Here's what actually matters when you're making a call:
Ease of use: If your team needs a user manual just to post a job, it’s a hard pass. Tools like JazzHR and AvaHR win here because you get a clean UI, fast onboarding, and no drama. That’s a win for recruitment teams trying to move quickly through the recruiting process.
Automation that saves time: Look for features that handle the busywork for you. Ashby and Manatal both crush it with smart automation and AI tools that don’t feel like fluff. You want workflows that help identify ideal candidates and handle repetitive steps efficiently.
Collaboration features: If you’re hiring as a team, shared notes, approvals, and mentions are non-negotiable. Recruitee and Lever make team hiring smooth and actually collaborative, which is the key for recruitment teams managing multiple potential hires across departments.
Job board reach: More visibility = more candidates. Workable hits 200+ boards, Recruitee hits 1,450+. That kind of reach matters when you’re trying to connect with a wide pool of potential hires across industries and roles.
Customization: Your process, your rules. Recruiting platforms like Avature and SmartRecruiters let you build workflows around your org, not the other way around. That flexibility ensures your recruiting process aligns with your performance management goals and larger human resources strategy.
Support + integrations: You’ll want solid support and tools that plug into your stack. Pinpoint and Zoho Recruit deliver here, especially for scaling teams that rely on seamless integration with HRIS, payroll, and performance management tools.
Choose the one that solves your actual pain points, not the one with the flashiest landing page.
Make Your Next Hire the Right Way
You’ve got the definitive shortlist of the top 20 ATS software tools and systems for 2025. Every option is broken down so you can see exactly what fits your team, your process, recruitment strategies, and your budget.
Investing in the right ATS makes a real difference.
You get faster hires, fewer bottlenecks, and stronger potential candidates moving through your pipeline from a candidate database you can actually rely on.
The days of losing qualified candidates to slow processes or wasting hours on manual admin are done when your team uses tech built for real results.
The right system helps you source candidates more efficiently and manage candidate communications without friction, so every interaction moves you closer to the right hire.
If you want to dig deeper, check out our other guides on recruitment tech, or see our reviews for HRIS, onboarding, or background check tools.
You can refine your entire hiring process or reach a broader job seeker audience through better job listings.
The right tech stack doesn’t stop at your ATS. We’ve done the research to help you lock in every part of your process. You'll build strong talent pools and manage a wide range of hiring workflows across your team.
Go with what works for your goals and your workflow.
You’ve got a shortlist that cuts out the guesswork, so you can finally move forward with confidence and get hiring right this year.
P.S. Want expert help running your recruitment process end-to-end? Check out our list of the Top RPO Companies & Consulting Firms to find a partner that gets results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ATS software?
An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is software that helps companies manage every step of hiring, from posting jobs and collecting resumes to tracking candidates and scheduling interviews. It’s your command center for recruitment.
How does ATS software work?
ATS tools centralize everything in the hiring process. Instead of juggling email threads, spreadsheets, and calendars, you use one platform to post jobs, score candidates, automate follow-ups, and move people through your pipeline.
What is the difference between ATS software and CRM?
ATS software is for managing active job openings and applicants. CRM (Candidate Relationship Management) tools are for building and maintaining long-term relationships with potential future hires. Some platforms, like Lever and Recruit CRM, combine both.
Is there free ATS software?
Yes, a few options like Zoho Recruit offer a free tier with basic features. It’s usually limited to one active job and a lean feature set, but it’s a good way to get started if you’re on a tight budget.
Why is ATS software used in recruitment?
ATS software is used in recruitment because hiring without it is slow, messy, and full of missed opportunities. ATS software helps companies reduce time-to-fill, improve candidate quality, cut down on admin, and stay competitive for top talent.