What’s the best core HR software for small businesses?

We’re a small business looking for core HR software to help manage payroll, benefits, time off, and employee records as we grow, without adding extra complexity or costs we can’t handle.

We’re hoping to find something that’s:

• Easy to set up and manage with a small team
• User-friendly for both HR/admins and employees
• Flexible enough to grow with us
• Able to integrate with other tools we already use

Here are a few apps we’ve been researching on G2:

1. Rippling — Offers all-in-one HR, IT, and finance; is it too much for a small business, or just right?
2. Gusto — Known for simplicity and ease of use; how well does it handle scaling teams?
3. RUN Powered by ADP — Longstanding payroll name; how modern and small-business-friendly is it?
4. Justworks — Popular PEO option; how’s the experience for small, growing teams?
5. BambooHR — Strong reputation in HR software; how smooth is its payroll and benefits side?

If you’ve worked with any of these (or others), I’d love to hear:

• What made you pick that tool?
• How easy was it to roll out and get your team using it?
• Any wins, challenges, or surprises you’ve run into?

I’d really appreciate any advice or experiences you’re willing to share!