Introduction
HR software has become essential in 2025, as managing people is now 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 trying to streamline onboarding or a large enterprise automating payroll for thousands, the right HRMS platform can simplify your workflows, reduce manual tasks, and keep your company compliant with changing regulations.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the top HR software in India—from its features and pros 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.
Methodology: How We Picked HR Software Tools
Not all HR software is created equal—and choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. To make your decision easier, we evaluated the top HR software in India based on real business needs and industry benchmarks. Here’s what we considered:
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 |
Key Benefits of Using HR Software in 2025
Modern HR software goes far beyond just tracking attendance or processing payroll—it empowers organisations to streamline operations, improve compliance, and create a better employee experience. Here’s why investing in the best HR software in India is more relevant than ever in 2025:
🔹Centralised Employee Data
No more scattered spreadsheets or paperwork. HR software keeps all employee records—personal details, salary data, documents, and performance—in one secure place, accessible anytime.
🔹 Process Automation
From onboarding to payroll and exit formalities, HR software automates repetitive tasks, reduces manual work, and ensures everything runs on time—saving hours every week.
🔹 Real-Time Analytics & Insights
HR software enables leaders to make more intelligent decisions with real-time dashboards showing attrition trends, attendance issues, salary costs, and compliance gaps—all in a few clicks.
🔹 Legal & Statutory Compliance
With built-in PF, ESI, PT, and TDS calculations, HRMS tools ensure that payroll and labour law filings are done correctly and on time—minimising legal risks.
🔹 Custom Dashboards & Role-Based Access
HR software offers tailored access for HR teams, finance departments, and top management through custom dashboards. Everyone sees what they need—nothing more, nothing less.
🔹 Employee Empowerment via Self-Service
Modern platforms include ESS portals so employees can view payslips, apply for leave, check PF/ESI details, and update KYC without going through HR.
🔝 Top 16 Best HR Software in India for Startups, MSMEs & Enterprises
🥇 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.
Key Features:🔝 Top 16 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 like Managed Payroll & Compliance, Employer of Record (EoR) with full PF/ESI coverage (even without registration), Apprentice Management (NATS), and end-to-end workforce management solutions provides businesses with comprehensive support.
- 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 enterprise HR software solution that handles complex workflows and automation needs. Its AI-powered HR suite supports everything from talent acquisition to business intelligence dashboards.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🧠 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
2. What are the key features to look for in HR software?
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
3. How is HRMS software different from payroll software?
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.
4. Can HR software help with payroll outsourcing?
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.
5. What is the average cost of HR software in India?
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.
6. Which HRMS tool supports PF and ESI compliance without company registration?
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.
7. What’s India's best HR software for startups and MSMEs?
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.
8. Can HR software handle remote and distributed teams?
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.
9. How do I choose the right HRMS for my business?
Look for:
- Scalability
- Compliance support
- User experience
- Integration options
- Customer support
- Data security
10. Can HRMS software be customised for enterprise-level needs?
Advanced HRMS platforms like TankhaPay offer custom workflows, reporting, integrations, and salary structuring tailored for large businesses with complex policies and multiple locations.