Akal Information Systems Ltd.

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Top 10 HR Software in India (2025)

Best HR Software in India

Table of Contents

Introduction

In 2025, managing people has become as complex as managing profits. With hybrid teams, shifting compliance laws, and a growing demand for transparency, businesses across India are rethinking how they handle HR operations. That’s where modern HR software comes in.

Whether you’re a startup streamlining onboarding or a large company automating payroll for thousands, the right HRMS can simplify work, reduce manual tasks, and keep you compliant with changing rules.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the top HR software in India—from its features and pros/cons to pricing, use cases, and how to choose the best fit for your business. Whether you’re an MSME or an enterprise, this guide is your go-to playbook for finding the HR solution that works for your team.

Key Benefits to Look for in the Best HR Software in India

Choosing the right HR and payroll software in india, can have a strong impact on your daily operations and overall business performance. Either you’re just start up, or running a growing business, or managing a large and diverse workforce, it’s very important to find a solution that matches your present needs and future plans. To help you make the right choice, here are some important factors you should keep in mind before finalising any HR software.

Top 10 Key Feature Of HR Software In India

1. Cloud-Based vs Desktop-Based Software

In today’s digital age, most businesses are moving away from desktop-based HR software and switching to cloud-based solutions—and for good reason.

Desktop-based or on-premise HR software is installed on local computers or internal servers. While this gives you physical control over your data, it comes with major limitations. You may lose critical information in the event of a system crash or virus. It also restricts access to your internal network, making remote work difficult. Any updates or technical glitches need fixes which usually need someone on-site, and this can lead to delay in work and reduce efficiency.

Cloud-based HR software, on the other hand, offers flexibility and freedom. You can log in from anywhere, be it the office, your home, or on the go. It hosted on secure servers with regular backups, ensuring your data stays protected. Almost every platform work on a subscription model, so you don’t need to make a large upfront investment. Plus, software updates happen automatically, so you’re always working with the latest version.
For businesses planning to scale, cloud-based HR systems are not just convenient—they’re future-ready.

2. Range of Modules and Features

No two businesses are the same. Some might only need a payroll feature, while others might require end-to-end features like attendance tracking, performance management, onboarding, and compliance tools.
Consider for software that offers:

  • Choose only the features you need and pay for those
  • Mobile app available for both HR and employees
  • Works smoothly with payroll and compliance tasks
  • Shows data based on user roles and access levels
  • A flexible HR solution will grow with your business and meet your changing needs—without forcing you to invest in unwanted features.

    3. Ease of Implementation

    A common challenge for HR teams is moving from manual or outdated systems to new digital tools. That’s why it’s important to choose software with a smooth and transparent implementation process.
    Ask the vendor:

  • How long will it take to get the system running?
  • Will they assist with data migration?
  • Is training included for your HR team and employees?
  • Some solutions can be implemented in a week, while others may take a month or more. Also, watch out for hidden charges during implementation. The best service providers explain things clearly, offer help when needed, and respond quickly during setup.

    4. Budget and Pricing Transparency

    HR software pricing in India can easily range from ₹20 to ₹1000+ per employee every month. While it does seem tempting to go for the lowest cost, cutting corners may limit features, reduce support quality, or compromise data security.

    While you consider the price tag, also look

  • What does the basic price cover?
  • Are there extra charges for support, updates, or extra features?
  • Can the pricing adjust as your team gets bigger?
  • The best HR platforms provide transparent pricing, flexible plans, and value that justifies the cost in the long run.

    5. Reliable Customer Support

    No matter how good a product is, you will need help at some point—be it during setup, usage, or troubleshooting.
    Good customer support means:

  • Quick responses via phone, chat, or email
  • A dedicated account manager for your business
  • Clear escalation paths for urgent issues
  • Choose a provider that offers reliable, long-term support—not one that disappears after onboarding.

    6. Scalability and Future Ready

    Nowadays, common yet major mistake businesses make is opting for a system that only fits their current size. As you grow, hire more employees, or open new locations, your HR needs will evolve.
    Choose software that can scale with you:

  • Easily add new users or features
  • Support teams across different locations and rules
  • Adjust to changing HR needs or laws
  • Future-ready software support today’s needs as well as it evolves with your business without requiring you to change platforms later.

    7. Reporting and Data Insights

    HR decisions shouldn’t rely on guesswork. The best software should give you data-backed insights into hiring, attendance, performance, payroll costs, and more.
    What to check:

  • Does it provide ready-made reports for audits, PF/ESI, and payroll?
  • Can you create custom reports for internal planning?
  • Are dashboards easy to read and export?
  • Good reporting features help HR teams save time, avoid errors, and make informed decisions faster.

    8. Employee Experience

    Now, the employees have become more smarter and advanced. They expect more from HR tools. They want to mark attendance or check their payslips along with a platform that feels easy and helpful. They look for:

  • Easy access to leave details, payslips, and tax documents on mobile.
  • Simple steps for submitting claims, getting approvals, or sharing updates.
  • Timely alerts and reminders for key tasks and deadlines.
  • An easy-to-use system improves engagement, reduces dependency on HR, and builds a better work culture.

    9. Compliance and Security

    Undoubtedly, Indian labour laws and compliance requirements are complex. Missing a step in PF, ESI, or TDS filings can lead to heavy penalties.
    Reliable HR software helps you:

  • Automate compliance reports and tax calculations
  • Stay updated with changes in regulations
  • Safely store sensitive employee data with proper encryption
  • Choose a vendor with a strong compliance background and proven track record in handling payroll and statutory filing in India.

    10. Customisation and Integration

    Lastly, your HR software should fit your way of working—not the other way around.
    Look for:

  • Customisable workflows, approvals, and forms
  • Integration with accounting, biometric systems, or ERP tools
  • API access for tech teams, if needed
  • The best systems give you the flexibility to design your HR processes while keeping everything connected.

    When choosing HR software, it’s not just about ticking boxes. It’s about finding a solution that makes daily tasks easier, helps you grow, and meets the needs of both HR teams and employees. Whether you’re a small startup or managing thousands of employees, investing in the right HR software can save time, reduce errors, and future-proof your operations.

    Top 10 HR Software in India

    TankhaPay

    TankhaPay is a next-gen HRMS and workforce management platform designed for businesses of all sizes—from agile startups and MSMEs to large enterprises managing complex HR and compliance needs. Built on a mobile-first architecture, it offers a full suite of HR tech features and add-on services beyond traditional tools.

    TankhaPay HR Payroll Software in India Dashboard

    Key Features: Best HR Software in India for Startups, MSMEs & Enterprises

    • HRMS core: Employee Onboarding & Management, Geo Smart Attendance, Payroll, Performance Tracking, Training and Development, Applicant Tracking System, Reports, Help Desk, Employee Self Service Portal, Shift & Break Management, etc.
    • HR software with Add-on services: Managed Payroll & Compliance, Employer of Record (EoR) with full PF/ESI coverage (even without registration), Apprentice Management (NATS), and end-to-end workforce management services.
    • Multilingual & mobile-first interface for distributed or deskless teams.

    Best Suited For:
    Large Enterprises, Startups, and MSMEs are looking for an all-in-one HRMS with payroll and compliance automation—plus end-to-end service support.
    Pricing:
    Custom plans. Free HR tech with payroll outsourcing.

    ZingHR

    ZingHR is a cloud-based HR Software platform for enterprises that manages complex workflows and automation. The AI-powered suite covers everything from hiring to business intelligence dashboards.
    Zing HR Dashboard

    Key Features:

    • Recruitment, performance management, employee engagement tools, and HR analytics
    • AI-based chatbot and mobile-first operations

    Best Suited For:
    Mid to large enterprises looking for configurable workflows and intelligent HR Software automation.
    Pros:
    Highly scalable, robust analytics, multilingual

    Darwinbox

    Darwinbox is a unified HR Software designed primarily for large organisations with enterprise-level needs. It supports complex hierarchies, workflows, and integrations with ERP systems.
    darwinbox dashboard
    Key Features:

    • Talent management, advanced analytics, digital onboarding, and employee lifecycle management
    • Seamless integrations with CRMs and ERPs

    Best Suited For:
    Enterprises and tech-driven companies with large workforces and multiple departments
    Pros:
    Enterprise-grade security, modern UI

    Keka

    Keka has gained popularity for its modern, user-friendly design and automation capabilities. It simplifies core HR Software processes and is widely used by startups and tech companies.
    keka dashboard

    Key Features:

    • Core HR, payroll, performance reviews, timesheet management, and applicant tracking.

    Best Suited For:
    Startups and growing mid-sized businesses that need an intuitive and scalable HR platform
    Pros:
    Great UX, strong onboarding and timesheet features

    greytHR

    A veteran in the Indian HR software space, greytHR offers reliable payroll and compliance automation for small and mid-sized businesses.
    greythr dashboard

    Key Features:

    • Payroll processing, leave and attendance, compliance reports, and HR document generation

    Best Suited For:
    SMEs and HR teams seeking solid payroll functionality and regulatory compliance
    Pros:
    Strong in compliance, simple UI

    HROne

    HROne is a lightweight, modular HRMS platform that covers day-to-day HR operations without much setup complexity. It’s popular with businesses aiming to digitise their HR functions quickly.
    HRone dashboard

    Key Features:

    • Attendance, leave, recruitment, helpdesk, asset tracking, and document management.

    Best Suited For:
    SMBs wanting easy-to-implement HR software with minimal IT support.
    Pros:
    Simple interface, quick implementation

    BambooHR

    BambooHR is a global HR platform known for its employee-centric design and seamless integrations. While not designed for Indian payroll, it’s popular for its intuitive performance and onboarding tools.
    Bamboo HR dashboard

    Key Features:

    • Employee records, e-signatures, goal tracking, onboarding checklists, and team engagement surveys.

    Best Suited For:
    International businesses or Indian startups with global teams
    Pros:
    Great UI, focused on employee experience.

    Freshteam by Freshworks

    Freshteam provides recruitment and HR software that aligns well with growing startups. It’s part of the larger Freshworks ecosystem and offers tight integration with CRMs and helpdesks.
    freshteam dashboard
    Key Features:

    • Applicant tracking, onboarding, time-off tracking, and employee directory

    Best Suited For:
    Fast-growing teams looking for efficient hiring and onboarding tools
    Pros:
    Smooth UI, suitable for remote and hybrid teams

    Kredily

    Kredily offers free HRMS and payroll software for small businesses in India. It helps digitise basic HR functions and payroll without a high cost.
    Key Features:

    • Employee database, leave tracking, attendance, and payroll generation.

    Best Suited For:
    Micro and small businesses looking for an entry-level HR solution
    Pros:
    Free for small teams, easy setup

    RazorpayX Payroll

    RazorpayX Payroll offers a fintech-first approach to HR and payroll, designed for startups already using Razorpay’s banking and payment ecosystem.
    Key Features:

    • Automated salary payments, tax filings (TDS), PF/ESIC returns, and Form 16 generation

    Best Suited For:
    Tech startups and small businesses focused on quick, automated disbursals
    Pros:
    Banking integration, GST support

    FactoHR

    Key Features:
    FactoHR is a unified HR platform offering payroll, performance, attendance, travel, and compliance management solutions. It is widely used by growing businesses looking for automation and mobile accessibility.
    Best Suited For:
    Startups and mid-sized businesses focused on automating payroll and statutory compliance.
    Pros:

    • It offers various modules, including payroll, attendance, and performance.
    • Strong mobile app and employee self-service features.

    Zimyo

    Key Features:
    Zimyo offers a modern HRMS with payroll, performance reviews, ESS, and HR letters. The user-friendly platform is designed to improve employee experience and simplify HR operations.
    Zimyo Dashboard
    Best Suited For:
    SMEs, startups, and tech-savvy HR teams seek easy-to-use and strong onboarding tools.
    Pros:

    • Easy-to-use interface with smooth onboarding flows.
    • Good customer support and modular pricing.

    PeopleStrong

    Key Features:
    A robust HR tech suite tailored for large enterprises, PeopleStrong combines recruitment, payroll, workforce analytics, and AI-based tools. It’s known for strong data security and deep ERP integrations.
    people strong dashboard
    Best Suited For:
    Large enterprises and fast-scaling businesses with advanced HR needs.
    Pros:

    • Enterprise-grade solution with AI-powered features.
    • Scalable architecture and strong analytics.

    Zoho People

    Key Features:
    Part of the Zoho ecosystem, Zoho People is a cloud-based HRMS that covers core HR, time tracking, leave management, and custom workflows. It integrates easily with other Zoho and third-party tools.
    zoho people dashboard
    Best Suited For:
    SMEs and service-based firms using Zoho apps or looking for simple HR automation.
    Pros:

    • Seamless integration with Zoho suite and other business tools.
    • Affordable for startups and growing businesses.

    Qandle

    Key Features:
    Qandle is a flexible, mobile-first HR platform with modules for payroll, compliance, travel, and reimbursements. It offers high customisation and a clean UI.
    Best Suited For:
    Modern businesses need flexibility and scalable HR systems.
    Pros:

    • Highly customisable modules and workflows.
    • Clean UI with good mobile accessibility.

    247HRM

    Key Features:
    Tailored for Indian businesses, 247HRM offers full-suite HR modules, including attendance, payroll, leave, and statutory reports. It’s ideal for compliance-heavy sectors.
    247HRM Dashboard
    Best Suited For:
    SMEs and mid-sized companies focused on statutory accuracy and government reporting.
    Pros:

    • Built specifically for Indian compliance and statutory reporting.
    • Useful for companies with complex payroll structures.

    Key Evaluation Criteria Of HR Software

    • Core HR Capabilities: Tools must offer essential HR functions like attendance, payroll, and onboarding.
    • Scalability: Solutions that support both small teams and large enterprises.
    • Ease of Use: Clean UI, multilingual support, and mobile access are essential.
    • Compliance Support: Built-in automation for PF, ESI, PT, and labour law filings.
    • Integration: Ability to connect with biometric devices, accounting systems, and third-party apps.
    • Support & Reliability: Active customer service, implementation support, and user feedback.

    Data Sources:

    • Verified user reviews from platforms like Techimply, TechJockey, G2, Capterra, and SoftwareSuggest
    • Industry rankings and analyst reports
    • Product demos and first-hand testing
    • Features mapped against the latest HR trends for 2025

    Using these parameters, we’ve shortlisted 16 of India’s most effective and trusted HRMS platforms that offer real value to growing businesses.

    Quick Comparison Table: Best HR Software in India

    Software

    Key Features

    Ideal For

    Pricing (Starts At)

    TankhaPay

    Payroll, Attendance, Compliance, ESS

    MSMEs, Enterprises

    Custom Quote

    Keka

    Core HR, ATS, PMS

    Tech Startups

    Starts at ₹9,999/mo for up to 100 users

    GreytHR

    Payroll, Leave, Statutory Compliance

    SMEs

    Starts at ₹3,495/mo for up to 50 employees

    Darwinbox

    PMS, HR analytics, AI tools

    Large Enterprises

    Custom Quote

    ZingHR

    Mobile HRMS, Payroll, Geo-fencing

    Distributed Teams

    Custom Quote

    HROne

    Cloud HRMS, Org charts, Helpdesk

    Mid-Large Orgs

    Starts at ₹4,950/mo for up to 50 users

    BambooHR

    Intuitive UI, Small team HRMS

    Remote/global startups

    Custom Quote

    Freshteam

    ATS, Onboarding, Employee Directory

    Recruitment focused orgs

    Starts at ₹1399/user/mo

    Kredily

    Free payroll, basic HRMS

    Budget-conscious SMEs

    Starts at ₹1499/mo for up to 25 employees

    RazorpayX HR

    Payroll & compliance for India

    Razorpay clients

    Custom Quote

    FactoHR

    Mobile App, Payroll, Leave, Attendance

    SMEs, Field Teams

    Starts at ₹4,999/mo upto 50 employees

    Zimyo

    Payroll, HRMS, Benefits, Engagement

    Growing Startups, SMEs

    Starts at ₹80/user/mo

    PeopleStrong

    Enterprise-grade HR, Talent Management, LMS

    Enterprises, BFSI, Govt

    Custom Quote

    Zoho People

    Core HR, Timesheets, Workflow Automation

    Zoho Suite Users, SMBs

    ₹48/user/mo

    Qandle

    HRMS + Payroll + Expense + Travel

    Companies Needing Flexibility

    Starts at ₹2,450/mo for upto 50 employees

    247HRM

    Payroll, Compliance, Shift & Leave Management

    Indian SMEs

    Starts at ₹2,499/mo for upto 30 employees

    How to Choose the Right HR Software for Your Business

    Finding the best HR software in India isn’t just about picking the most features—it’s about choosing what works best for your business size, team structure, and long-term goals. Whether you’re a startup, MSME, or a growing enterprise, here are the key things you should evaluate:

    Must-Have Features to Look For HR Software

    1. Core HR Functions
    Ensure the HR software covers employee data management, attendance, leave tracking, and payroll processing.
    2. Recruitment & Onboarding
    An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) and automated onboarding flows can help streamline the hiring process and reduce manual paperwork.
    3. Performance Management
    Check if the HR software includes features like goal tracking, appraisal workflows, 360° feedback, and training/development modules.
    4. Reporting & Analytics
    Intelligent dashboards and downloadable reports help HR and management make better decisions quickly.
    5. Time Sheets & Shift Tracking
    HR software is essential for companies managing field teams, hourly staff, or project-based work. Look for features like geo-tagging, break tracking, and overtime calculations.
    6. Real-Time Location Tracking
    If your workforce is mobile, this is a must-have. It helps with transparency and field productivity.
    7. Geo-Fencing Attendance
    HR software with geo-fencing prevents false check-ins and boosts location-based attendance accuracy.

    Usability & Adoption

    • User-Friendly Interface
      Choose a system that is intuitive and doesn’t require weeks of training. A clean UI will increase adoption across departments.
    • Mobile-First Access
      Make sure the HR software works smoothly on mobile devices. This is crucial for remote, field, and distributed teams.
    • Integration Capabilities
      The HR software should connect easily with your existing tools—accounting systems, biometric devices, CRMs, or communication tools like Slack or WhatsApp.

    Scalability & Flexibility

    • Adaptability to Growth
      Pick an HR software that can handle your future scale—whether you’re managing 50 people today or 5,000 tomorrow.
    • Customisation Options
      Your policies, workflows, and approvals are unique. Your HRMS should allow flexibility in enabling these without heavy tech support.

    Support & Customer Service

    • Onboarding Support
      Look for providers who offer assisted onboarding, training, and technical setup.
    • Ongoing Helpdes
      Check whether there is responsive customer support via phone, chat, or email.
    • Knowledge Base Access
      A self-serve help centre or video tutorials are great for new HRs or remote teams.

    Pricing & Return on Investment

      • Flexible Pricing Models
        Avoid one-size-fits-all HR software. Choose between pay-per-employee, subscription, or bundled service pricing.
      • Value for Money
        Ensure your HR software provides compliance support, automation, and reporting without hidden costs.

    Pro Tip:
    “Don’t just look at cost—consider time saved, errors avoided, and compliance maintained.”

    Why TankhaPay is the Ideal HR Software for Indian Businesses

    HR software is crucial as India’s workforce evolves—diverse employment types, complex compliance laws, and the growing need for automation. The right solution meets these demands—whether you’re a startup, a fast-growing MSME, or a large enterprise.

    Unlike traditional HRMS tools that stop at automation, TankhaPay offers a full-service ecosystem. It blends powerful HR software features with essential add-on services to help businesses manage people, payroll, and compliance effortlessly.

    What Sets TankhaPay Apart?

    Built for Every Workforce Type
    HR software should support all contract types—whether your team includes full-time staff, gig workers, or off-roll employees—in one unified system.
    All-in-One HRMS Features
    HR software should cover every HR function your business needs—from onboarding and attendance tracking to performance reviews and payroll processing.
    Key modules include:

    • Employee Onboarding & Management
    • Applicant Tracking System (ATS)
    • Shift & Break Management
    • Geofenced Attendance with Real-Time Location
    • Performance Management & PMS
    • Leave Management & Timesheet Integration
    • Reports, HR Letters & Compliance Dashboards

    Payroll & Compliance—Done Right
    TankhaPay simplifies salary processing and ensures statutory compliance with PF, ESIC, TDS, LWF, and more. Even businesses without PF/ESI registration can benefit from our platform.
    Free HR Tech with Payroll Outsourcing
    Opt for our managed payroll and compliance services and get our HR tech suite at no additional cost.
    Multilingual ESS for Employees
    Our Employee Self-Service app lets employees view payslips, update KYC, apply for leave, or track PF/ESIC—in their preferred language.
    Enterprise-Level Security
    Your HR data is protected with encrypted storage, secure logins, and role-based access.

    Backed by Legacy, Trusted by Thousands

      • Powered by Akal Information Systems with 25+ years of experience
      • Trusted by 5000+ clients across government, enterprises, logistics, retail, manufacturing & more

    Whether managing a field team, scaling up your headcount, or outsourcing payroll, TankhaPay is the HRMS built to grow with you.

    Conclusion

    Choosing the right HR software isn’t just about features—it’s about finding a solution that simplifies operations, reduces compliance stress, and grows with your business. Whether you’re a startup, MSME, or large enterprise, investing in the right HRMS software can unlock new levels of productivity, transparency, and employee satisfaction.
    From centralised data management to payroll outsourcing and statutory compliance, today’s best HR software is more than a digital tool—it’s a strategic partner.
    Among the top HR solutions, TankhaPay stands out for its full-service approach. It combines powerful HR tech, payroll processing, and social security benefits in one easy-to-use platform—making it a wise choice for businesses of all sizes.

    If your goal is to improve overall team productivity and control labor costs, check out our detailed guide on workforce management.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    A good HR software should include the following:

    • Employee onboarding & management
    • Attendance & leave tracking
    • Payroll & Compliance processing
    • Performance management
    • Reporting & analytics
    • Employee Self-Service (ESS) portal
    • Integration with biometric and third-party systems

    HRMS (Human Resource Management System) is a broader system that includes payroll but also manages hiring, onboarding, attendance, performance, and employee engagement. Payroll software, on the other hand, focuses only on salary computation, tax deductions, and payslip generation.

    Yes. Platforms like TankhaPay offer HR software with payroll outsourcing services, which take over tasks like salary processing, compliance filing, and disbursement while providing a full suite of HR tools.

    HR software pricing varies based on features, employee count, and service levels. Many tools follow a per-employee-per-month model, while full-service solutions like TankhaPay offer custom pricing—especially when bundled with payroll or compliance services.

    TankhaPay is currently the only HRMS platform in India that allows employers to offer PF and ESI benefits without needing their registration. It is the principal employer under its code, ensuring workers are covered without additional statutory burden.

    Startups and MSMEs often need affordability, simplicity, and compliance support. TankhaPay, greytHR, and Keka are among the best HRMS tools for this segment, but TankhaPay provides extra value with features like social security benefits and off-roll payrolling.

    Yes. Modern tools like TankhaPay support mobile-based check-ins, geofencing, real-time location tracking, and multilingual ESS portals—making them ideal for remote, field, and gig-based teams.

    Look for:

    • Scalability

    • Compliance support

    • User experience

    • Integration options

    • Customer support

    • Data security

    Advanced HRMS platforms like TankhaPay offer custom workflows, reporting, integrations, and salary structuring tailored for large businesses with complex policies and multiple locations.

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