Rippling vs Hire with Columbus: 2026 EOR Pricing and features comparison
Compare features, pricing, and capabilities side-by-side. I've analyzed both EOR providers to help you make the right decision for your global hiring needs.
Robbin Schuchmann
Co-founder, Employ Borderless
Rippling vs Hire With Columbus: quick comparison
Short on time? Here are the key differences between Rippling and Hire With Columbus at a glance.
 |  | |
|---|---|---|
| EOR pricing | $499/per employee/month | $179/per employee/month |
| Contractor pricing | $35/per employee/month | $25/per employee/month |
| Payroll pricing | $35/per employee/month | — |
| Overall rating | 9.0/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Countries | 53+ | 185+ |
| Visit site | Visit site |
EOR pricing
$499/per employee/month
Contractor pricing
$35/per employee/month
Payroll pricing
$35/per employee/month
Overall rating
9.0/10
Countries
53+
EOR pricing
$179/per employee/month
Contractor pricing
$25/per employee/month
Payroll pricing
—
Overall rating
8.9/10
Countries
185+
Let me be honest: choosing between Rippling and Hire with Columbus for global hiring is trickier than most comparison articles make it seem. You’ll find plenty of feature lists, but what really matters is their fundamental difference – Rippling offers all-in-one HR/IT/Finance platform at $499/month per employee, while Hire with Columbus provides essential EOR services at $179/month (64% cheaper).
I keep seeing the same pattern: businesses compare these because both handle international employment, then realize they were comparing a comprehensive business platform to a specialized EOR provider. Rippling built its reputation on unifying HR, IT device management, and Finance with 500+ integrations, while Hire with Columbus positioned itself around affordable compliance through established partner networks. Both work, but they serve radically different priorities.
The real decision comes down to scope versus cost: Rippling works best when you need comprehensive HR/IT/Finance automation at $499/month per employee, while Hire with Columbus delivers better results for companies needing essential EOR at $179/month. Your budget and operational complexity will determine which fits better.
My goal is to help you decide if Rippling’s unified platform justifies 2.8x pricing, or if Hire with Columbus’s essential EOR meets your needs at the lowest market cost.
Editorial note: By using our partner links, you'll get exclusive discounts and the best available offers we've negotiated while also supporting our efforts to provide unbiased comparisons of global hiring solutions.
What is Rippling?
Rippling is an all-in-one workforce management platform that connects HR, IT, and finance functions through a unified employee database. Companies use it to manage payroll, benefits, devices, and software from one system.
Parker Conrad (former Zenefits CEO) and Prasanna Sankar founded the company in 2016. Rippling now supports businesses operating in more than 50 countries.
How Rippling works
The platform automates workflows across business systems that normally operate separately.
When I tested Rippling, the onboarding caught my attention because it was so efficient. For example, adding someone to payroll triggered their laptop order, email setup, and software provisioning right away.
There are no (or fewer) manual steps since one employee database feeds all systems at once.
What it means for clients: It means automating tasks that normally require switching between multiple tools.
Who uses Rippling
Rippling works best for medium-sized technology and growing businesses with members across the world.
These companies need advanced systems but lack enterprise-level IT departments. The Rippling platform provides just that: enterprise-grade tools without massive IT investments.
What it means for clients: Companies automate work that normally requires multiple tools and manual coordination.
| Founded | 2016 |
| Headquarters | San Francisco |
| CEO | Parker Conrad |
| Employees | 10001+ |
| Total funding | $1.4B |
What is Hire With Columbus?
Hire with Columbus is an Employer of Record (EOR) service that enables companies to hire and pay international employees without establishing local legal entities. Operating as a high-volume discount provider, Columbus has positioned itself as the most affordable EOR solution by leveraging bulk purchasing power.
When you use Hire with Columbus, they technically employ workers through their partner entities in 185+ countries. Columbus manages the legal employment paperwork, local tax compliance, payroll processing, and benefits administration, while you handle day-to-day work management. This arrangement saves the 3-6 months and $15,000-$50,000 typically required for foreign entity establishment.
The platform serves two primary functions:
- Full EOR services for companies hiring employees internationally
- Contractor management for businesses working with global freelancers
Hire with Columbus operates through strategic partnerships with established EOR providers, negotiating bulk rates based on aggregate client volumes. This model allows them to offer premium services at significantly reduced costs while maintaining compliance standards across all jurisdictions.
| Founded | 2025 |
| Headquarters | Singapore |
What are the key features of Rippling vs Hire With Columbus?
When you're choosing between EOR providers, it comes down to what each one actually does for you. Some focus on payroll processing, others specialize in compliance management, and some offer better employee benefits. Here's what sets these two apart.
Rippling key features
Rippling's EOR service allows companies to hire in 80+ countries without legal entities. The platform manages all contracts, tax registrations, and compliance. International and domestic employees are managed in the same system.
One database serves as the centralized source. When information changes anywhere, all connected systems update automatically (this reduces clerical mistakes).
The platform manages device procurement, configuration, and security. Equipment gets ordered based on role templates, and software pre-installs before devices reach employees.
Rippling processes payments for domestic and international employees, contractors, and part-time workers through one interface. The system calculates taxes and deductions based on location, and reports segment costs by department or project.
The platform goes beyond basic admin/user roles. Clients can create custom access profiles based on department, seniority, or location.
Hire With Columbus key features
Columbus operates as the legal employer in 180+ countries through their partner network, managing all paperwork and compliance requirements. They generate locally-compliant employment contracts, register employees with authorities, and ensure adherence to labor laws. Columbus maintains their aggressive $179 pricing across all supported countries without regional surcharges.
Columbus calculates and processes payroll in 100+ currencies, handling tax withholdings, social contributions, and mandatory deductions based on local requirements. The system accommodates monthly, bi-weekly, and weekly payment cycles depending on country standards. All currency conversions happen at competitive rates through their volume partnerships.
For $22.50 per contractor monthly, Columbus provides compliant contractor agreements, manages invoicing, and processes payments in local currencies. This represents a 10% discount on standard market rates while maintaining full compliance with contractor classification requirements.
Columbus's benefits network offers standardized health plans across all countries, with options for dental and vision coverage. The platform also facilitates equipment provisioning, enabling companies to purchase and ship laptops and tools to remote team members efficiently.
The platform automatically manages tax filings, statutory requirements, and employment law compliance across all countries. This includes handling paid time off policies, parental leave, termination requirements, and other country-specific regulations through their partner infrastructure.
What benefits do Rippling and Hire With Columbus offer?
Features are one thing, but how do they actually help your business? Think faster onboarding, fewer compliance headaches, and smoother payroll runs. Here are the real benefits you'll get from each provider.
Rippling benefits
Less admin work
The platform connects systems that normally operate separately. I’ve seen companies report 60-80% time savings after switching to Rippling.
Faster onboarding
New hires can start working much quicker (typically in days). The platform configures accounts, orders equipment, and sets up payroll at the same time.
Reliable compliance
Rippling applies regulations based on worker location automatically. The system then tracks changing requirements and updates rules without manual work.
Stronger security
Rippling’s integrated IT management keeps security consistent across employees and devices. It controls who gets access, enforces password rules, and handles encryption in the background.
Fewer errors
The platform automatically syncs data across systems, so there’s less room for errors that come with the human factor.
Better employee experience
Employees manage their own pay stubs and tax forms through self-service. There’s less back-and-forth with HR, and that saves everyone time.
Hire With Columbus benefits
Unprecedented cost savings
Companies save 70-75% on international employment costs versus premium EOR providers. A 10-person international team costs $1,790 monthly with Columbus compared to $5,990 with competitors—delivering over $50,000 in annual savings that can fund business growth.
Eliminated entity setup costs
Businesses avoid the $15,000-$50,000 typically required for establishing foreign entities plus ongoing compliance costs of $20,000-$40,000 annually per country, making international expansion accessible for smaller companies.
Accelerated market entry
Companies can hire talent in new countries within a week rather than waiting 3-6 months for entity establishment. This rapid deployment enables businesses to capitalize on market opportunities immediately.
Minimized compliance exposure
Automated adherence to local regulations eliminates employment law violations that typically cost $10,000-$100,000 per incident, protecting companies from expensive penalties and business disruptions.
Streamlined payroll operations
By automating payroll calculations and tax withholdings across multiple currencies, Columbus eliminates approximately 15-20 hours of manual work per pay period while ensuring accuracy and compliance.
Maximum operational flexibility
The pay-as-you-go model with no minimum commitments allows businesses to scale their international workforce based on actual needs, particularly valuable for project-based work or market testing.
How do Rippling and Hire With Columbus compare on pricing?
Let's talk money. EOR pricing can be tricky - some providers quote low monthly fees but charge extra for setup, onboarding, or additional services. Here's what each provider charges for their main services.
| | |
|---|---|---|
| Employer of record | $499/per employee/month | $179/per employee/month |
| Contractor management | $35/per employee/month | $25/per employee/month |
| Global payroll | $35/per employee/month | — |
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What are the pros and cons of Rippling vs Hire With Columbus?
No EOR provider is perfect - they all have their sweet spots and pain points. Getting honest about what works and what doesn't will save you from unpleasant surprises down the road. Here's the real talk on both providers.
Rippling
- +
System integration
Rippling connects HR, IT, and finance in one platform. This removes the disconnected data that comes from using separate tools.
- +
Strong automation
Rippling reduces manual workload by automating HR processes from hiring to offboarding across all connected systems and countries.
- +
Device management
Rippling handles laptop ordering, software installation, and security for remote teams. Most EOR providers don't offer this.
- +
App integrations
Rippling connects with 500+ business applications. This creates a more unified workspace than most competitors.
- +
Custom workflows
Companies can build approval chains that match their structure.
- −
Unclear pricing
Rippling's modular pricing makes total costs hard to predict without direct quotes. Each service component adds to the base fee.
- −
Lengthy setup and steep learning curve
Setup takes longer compared to similar tools because of the many functions. HR teams coming from simpler tools face a bigger adjustment.
- −
Inconsistent support
Response times change based on issue type and plan level. Some users wait several days for a resolution.
Hire With Columbus
- +
Industry's lowest pricing
Hire with Columbus charges just $179 per employee monthly, making it the most affordable EOR service available – 70% cheaper than Deel ($599) and saving companies over $50,000 annually for a 10-person team.
- +
Quick employee onboarding
Columbus completes full employee setup within 5-7 business days across 185+ countries, eliminating the 3-6 month wait required for establishing independent legal entities.
- +
Compliance management
The platform handles all local employment regulations, tax filings, and statutory requirements in every operating country, protecting companies from compliance penalties that average $10,000+ per violation.
- +
Budget-friendly contractor services
Columbus manages contractor payments for just $22.50 monthly per contractor, undercutting competitors like Deel ($49) by over 50% while maintaining full compliance.
- +
Transparent flat-rate pricing
Unlike many competitors who vary rates by country or add hidden fees, Columbus maintains consistent global pricing with no setup fees, deposits, or minimum commitments required.
- +
International benefits administration
Companies can provide standardized health insurance packages across all countries through Columbus's global benefits network, improving recruitment without navigating multiple local providers.
- −
Limited platform ownership
Hire with Columbus operates through partner infrastructure rather than proprietary technology, potentially affecting service consistency and direct control over platform improvements.
- −
Basic reporting functionality
The analytics tools lack advanced features found in premium alternatives, offering only fundamental workforce data without extensive customization or visualization capabilities.
What do customers say about Rippling vs Hire With Columbus?
Don't just take my word for it. Here's what actual users say about working with these providers on major review platforms.
| | |
|---|---|---|
| G2 | 4.8 11,614 reviews | 5.0 6 reviews |
| Trustpilot | 4.6 1,713 reviews | — |
| Capterra | 4.9 4,321 reviews | — |
| Glassdoor | 3.8 1,003 reviews | — |
Ratings sourced directly from each platform. Last updated February 2026.
Customer support: Rippling vs Hire With Columbus
When things go wrong (and they will), you want to know someone's got your back. Great support can make the difference between a minor hiccup and a major disaster. Here's how these providers handle support.
| | |
|---|---|---|
| Support availability | Business Hours | 24/7 |
| Dedicated account manager | No | No |
| Self-service resources | No | No |
| Community forum | No | No |
How do Rippling and Hire With Columbus compare on our ratings?
I've scored both providers across 10 categories based on hands-on testing, user feedback, and independent research. Here's how they stack up.
Features
Country coverage
Pricing
User experience
Customer support
Integrations
Mobile app
Analytics & reporting
Security
Compliance
Third-party ratings average
Complete comparison table
Every detail that matters when choosing an EOR provider. Compare pricing, features, country coverage, and support options in one easy-to-scan table.
| Feature | Rippling | Hire With Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| EOR pricing | From $499/mo | From $179/mo |
| Countries | 53+ | 185+ |
| Overall rating | 9.0/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Mobile app | ||
| API available | ||
| Webhook support | ||
| Dedicated account manager | ||
| Self-service resources | ||
| Community forum |
Which provider should you choose?
Different companies have different needs. Your team size, budget, and where you're hiring all play a role in which provider will work best for you. Here's how to pick the right fit.
Choose Rippling if:
Choose Rippling if you need comprehensive HR/IT platform integration beyond basic EOR. Best for:
- Companies (100-1,000+ employees) needing unified HR, IT device management, and Finance operations
- Tech companies requiring automated IT provisioning with 500+ integrations
- Organizations wanting advanced workflow automation and system unification
- Businesses where operational efficiency justifies $499/month per employee
- Companies willing to invest in comprehensive platform over pure cost savings
Rippling’s all-in-one platform works well for companies prioritizing operational integration. If you need HR/IT/Finance unification beyond EOR, Rippling provides solutions at $499/month per employee.
Choose Hire With Columbus if:
Choose Hire with Columbus if you prioritize cost efficiency for essential EOR services. Best for:
- Budget-conscious companies (5-200 employees) needing lowest-cost EOR at $179/month
- Organizations requiring straightforward compliance without complex platform features
- Businesses comfortable with partner networks versus owned technology infrastructure
- Companies where $320/month savings per employee (64% lower) significantly impacts budget
- Startups needing essential EOR without premium automation and integration features
Hire with Columbus’s partner model and budget pricing work well for companies prioritizing affordability. If you need essential EOR at lowest cost, Hire with Columbus provides solutions at $179/month across 180+ countries.
When to consider alternatives
Sometimes neither option is quite right. Maybe you need rock-bottom pricing, enterprise-level features, or coverage in a specific country these providers don't serve well. Here are some other EOR providers worth checking out.
Remote
Companies who want strong protection of intellectual property (IP) and legal risk coverage when hiring internationally
Read review
Deel
Growing companies scaling internationally with a mix of contractors and full-time employees
Read review
Multiplier
Companies looking for fast global hiring & payments
Read reviewNot sure which is right for you? Get a free, personalized recommendation based on your team and budget.
Still not sure?
Get a free, personalized recommendation based on your team size, budget, and hiring countries.