Quick Overview
- 1#1: Checkr - Delivers fast, FCRA-compliant background checks and screening for employers via API and web platform.
- 2#2: GoodHire - Provides user-friendly, compliant background screening for small businesses with quick results and adverse action support.
- 3#3: TruthFinder - Uncovers comprehensive public records including criminal history, addresses, relatives, and social profiles.
- 4#4: BeenVerified - Offers affordable reverse phone, email, and people searches with background reports and mobile app access.
- 5#5: HireRight - Supplies global enterprise-level background screening, verification, and compliance solutions.
- 6#6: Sterling - Provides scalable background checks, drug screening, and I-9 verification for high-volume hiring.
- 7#7: Intelius - Generates detailed background reports from public records for personal and professional investigations.
- 8#8: Spokeo - Aggregates public data, social media, and records for quick people searches and background insights.
- 9#9: PeopleFinders - Delivers cost-effective access to criminal records, addresses, and contact information nationwide.
- 10#10: Instant Checkmate - Specializes in rapid criminal background checks, sex offender searches, and arrest records.
Tools were selected based on accuracy, compliance, user-friendliness, and value, ensuring they serve varied requirements from small business efficiency to enterprise-scale global screening, and personal to professional investigations.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores key features of leading background search software, including Checkr, GoodHire, TruthFinder, BeenVerified, HireRight, and more, helping users understand differences in functionality and suitability.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Checkr Delivers fast, FCRA-compliant background checks and screening for employers via API and web platform. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | GoodHire Provides user-friendly, compliant background screening for small businesses with quick results and adverse action support. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | TruthFinder Uncovers comprehensive public records including criminal history, addresses, relatives, and social profiles. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 4 | BeenVerified Offers affordable reverse phone, email, and people searches with background reports and mobile app access. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.5/10 |
| 5 | HireRight Supplies global enterprise-level background screening, verification, and compliance solutions. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Sterling Provides scalable background checks, drug screening, and I-9 verification for high-volume hiring. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Intelius Generates detailed background reports from public records for personal and professional investigations. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.3/10 |
| 8 | Spokeo Aggregates public data, social media, and records for quick people searches and background insights. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.9/10 |
| 9 | PeopleFinders Delivers cost-effective access to criminal records, addresses, and contact information nationwide. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 6.9/10 |
| 10 | Instant Checkmate Specializes in rapid criminal background checks, sex offender searches, and arrest records. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.9/10 |
Delivers fast, FCRA-compliant background checks and screening for employers via API and web platform.
Provides user-friendly, compliant background screening for small businesses with quick results and adverse action support.
Uncovers comprehensive public records including criminal history, addresses, relatives, and social profiles.
Offers affordable reverse phone, email, and people searches with background reports and mobile app access.
Supplies global enterprise-level background screening, verification, and compliance solutions.
Provides scalable background checks, drug screening, and I-9 verification for high-volume hiring.
Generates detailed background reports from public records for personal and professional investigations.
Aggregates public data, social media, and records for quick people searches and background insights.
Delivers cost-effective access to criminal records, addresses, and contact information nationwide.
Specializes in rapid criminal background checks, sex offender searches, and arrest records.
Checkr
enterpriseDelivers fast, FCRA-compliant background checks and screening for employers via API and web platform.
Proprietary rapid court search technology delivering industry-leading speed on criminal background reports.
Checkr is a premier background screening platform specializing in fast, FCRA-compliant checks for criminal records, employment history, education verification, motor vehicle reports, and more. It leverages proprietary technology and a vast nationwide network to deliver reports often in minutes, ideal for high-volume hiring in industries like gig work, staffing, and enterprises. The platform offers seamless API integrations with ATS systems like Greenhouse and Lever, real-time dashboards, and automated workflows to streamline compliance and decision-making.
Pros
- Lightning-fast turnaround with 90% of criminal reports in under 60 seconds
- Extensive integrations with 100+ ATS and HR tools
- Robust compliance tools including adverse action notices and audit trails
Cons
- Per-report pricing can be costly for low-volume users
- Occasional delays on complex or international reports
- Customer support response times can vary during peak seasons
Best For
High-volume hiring organizations like gig platforms, staffing agencies, and enterprises needing scalable, rapid background screening.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on volume; pay-per-report starting at $29 for basic criminal checks, $50+ for comprehensive packages, with enterprise discounts.
GoodHire
enterpriseProvides user-friendly, compliant background screening for small businesses with quick results and adverse action support.
Candidate self-complete portal via email or text for a seamless, mobile-optimized screening process
GoodHire is an FCRA-compliant background screening platform designed for employers to conduct pre-employment checks efficiently and legally. It offers a comprehensive suite of searches including national criminal databases, county records, employment and education verification, motor vehicle reports, and drug testing. The service features a user-friendly dashboard for tracking orders, real-time notifications, and seamless integrations with HRIS and ATS systems like BambooHR and Greenhouse.
Pros
- FCRA-compliant with accredited processes and built-in adverse action workflows
- Fast turnaround times, often 1-2 days for most checks
- Intuitive interface with excellent mobile candidate experience and ATS integrations
Cons
- Per-report pricing can become costly at high volumes without custom enterprise plans
- International checks available but less extensive than specialized global providers
- Some manual county searches may extend turnaround beyond instant results
Best For
Small to mid-sized businesses and recruiting teams seeking compliant, user-friendly background screening with strong integrations.
Pricing
Pay-per-report model starting at $29.99 for Basic criminal checks, $49.99 for Plus, and $79.99 for Premium; volume discounts and employer credits available.
TruthFinder
specializedUncovers comprehensive public records including criminal history, addresses, relatives, and social profiles.
Deep aggregation of public records, social profiles, and dark web monitoring in one report
TruthFinder is a consumer-focused background search platform that aggregates public records, criminal histories, contact details, relatives, and social media profiles into comprehensive reports. Users simply enter a person's name and location to uncover detailed insights, ideal for personal vetting of dates, neighbors, or lost connections. It emphasizes ease of access to vast databases but operates under personal use only, not FCRA-compliant for employment or tenant screening.
Pros
- Comprehensive reports covering criminal records, addresses, and relatives
- Intuitive interface with mobile app support
- Includes social media scans and reverse phone lookups
Cons
- Subscription-only model with no pay-per-report option
- Occasional inaccuracies or outdated data
- Limited customer support and refund policy
Best For
Individuals seeking quick personal background checks on acquaintances, dates, or family members.
Pricing
Monthly subscription at $28.78/month or $23.28/month for 2-month plan; unlimited reports during active membership.
BeenVerified
specializedOffers affordable reverse phone, email, and people searches with background reports and mobile app access.
Dark web scan to detect if your personal information appears on hidden internet sites
BeenVerified is a consumer-focused background search platform that aggregates public records to provide insights on individuals via name, phone number, email, or address searches. It delivers reports covering criminal records, court documents, property ownership, vehicle history, and social media associations. The service emphasizes quick, accessible searches for personal use, with tools for monitoring one's own online presence.
Pros
- Vast database from multiple public sources
- Simple, intuitive web and mobile interface
- Includes unique tools like vehicle and dark web scans
Cons
- Subscription model with no pay-per-report option
- Report accuracy can vary due to public data reliance
- Limited depth for professional or legal use
Best For
Everyday consumers performing casual background checks on dates, neighbors, or acquaintances.
Pricing
Subscriptions start at $28.89/month, $17.48/month for 3 months, or $14.87/month annually (prices may vary).
HireRight
enterpriseSupplies global enterprise-level background screening, verification, and compliance solutions.
Global screening with localized expertise and proprietary databases covering 200+ countries
HireRight is a leading enterprise-grade background screening platform offering comprehensive pre-employment checks, including criminal records, employment and education verification, drug testing, I-9 compliance, and identity checks. It leverages vast databases and global expertise to deliver accurate results with strong FCRA compliance and risk mitigation tools. The software integrates with major ATS and HRIS systems, enabling streamlined workflows for high-volume hiring.
Pros
- Extensive global screening capabilities in 200+ countries
- Robust compliance tools and adverse action workflows
- Seamless integrations with ATS like Workday and iCIMS
Cons
- Custom quote-based pricing lacks transparency
- Steeper learning curve for non-enterprise users
- Turnaround times can vary for complex international checks
Best For
Large enterprises and high-volume recruiters requiring scalable, compliant background screening with global reach.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on volume and services; typically starts at $5,000+/month for mid-sized packages.
Sterling
enterpriseProvides scalable background checks, drug screening, and I-9 verification for high-volume hiring.
Proprietary RapidORDER technology for expedited court record access and 98%+ on-time delivery
Sterling is a leading provider of background screening software, offering comprehensive checks including criminal records, employment and education verification, drug testing, and I-9 compliance. Their platform, Sterling BackView, enables employers to order, track, and manage reports through a centralized dashboard with ATS/HRIS integrations. It emphasizes FCRA compliance, accuracy via a vast proprietary database, and scalable solutions for high-volume hiring.
Pros
- Extensive screening options with nationwide and global coverage
- Strong FCRA compliance tools and high accuracy rates
- Seamless integrations with major ATS and HR systems
Cons
- Pricing is volume-based and expensive for small businesses
- Dashboard can feel complex for new users
- Turnaround times vary by jurisdiction and check type
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with high-volume hiring and stringent compliance requirements.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; per-check fees start at $20-$50+ depending on type and volume—contact sales for quotes.
Intelius
specializedGenerates detailed background reports from public records for personal and professional investigations.
Comprehensive aggregation of 20+ billion public records into easy-to-access reverse lookup tools
Intelius is a consumer-oriented background search platform that aggregates public records to provide information on individuals, including contact details, relatives, criminal records, and property history. It supports reverse phone lookups, address searches, and basic background reports accessible via a simple web interface. Primarily designed for personal use rather than professional HR screening, it draws from billions of public records but relies on user verification for accuracy.
Pros
- Extensive database covering billions of public records from multiple sources
- Intuitive search interface with quick results
- Multiple search types including people, phone, address, and email lookups
Cons
- Reports often contain outdated or incomplete information
- High costs for full premium reports and subscription upsells
- Limited depth for professional-grade background checks with no FCRA compliance for employment
Best For
Individuals performing casual personal background checks on dates, neighbors, or acquaintances.
Pricing
Basic searches start at $0.95; full background reports range from $24.86 to $49.95; memberships from $24.86/month for unlimited reports.
Spokeo
specializedAggregates public data, social media, and records for quick people searches and background insights.
Comprehensive reverse phone and email lookups that link to social profiles and hidden owner identities
Spokeo is a people search engine that aggregates public records, social media profiles, and online data to provide background information on individuals, including addresses, phone numbers, emails, relatives, and property details. It supports searches by name, phone, email, or address, with reports that may include basic criminal records, photos, and associates. While user-friendly for casual lookups, it focuses more on contact and location data than in-depth professional background checks.
Pros
- Vast database aggregating data from multiple public sources
- Simple, intuitive interface for quick searches
- Strong reverse phone and email lookup capabilities
Cons
- Data accuracy can be inconsistent or outdated
- Subscription model required for full reports, limiting free access
- Shallow coverage of criminal records compared to specialized tools
Best For
Casual users like individuals verifying contacts, reconnecting with acquaintances, or performing basic personal background checks.
Pricing
Monthly subscription from $19.95 for unlimited searches; pay-per-report options start at $0.95, with premium plans up to $39.95/month.
PeopleFinders
specializedDelivers cost-effective access to criminal records, addresses, and contact information nationwide.
Unlimited background reports via affordable monthly membership
PeopleFinders is a web-based background search platform that aggregates public records from thousands of sources to deliver comprehensive reports on individuals, including address history, phone numbers, emails, relatives, criminal records, and property information. It supports various search types like people finder, reverse phone lookup, and background checks, making it suitable for personal investigations or verifying contacts. The service emphasizes ease of access to non-FCRA compliant reports for informational purposes only.
Pros
- Vast database covering billions of public records
- Intuitive search interface with quick results
- Multiple report formats including PDF downloads
Cons
- Subscription model locks full features behind paywall
- Data accuracy inconsistent due to public record reliance
- Limited advanced filtering or enterprise tools
Best For
Individuals or families performing personal background checks to reconnect with people or verify basic info.
Pricing
Monthly subscriptions from $24.95 for unlimited searches; pay-per-report starting at $2.95, with trial options available.
Instant Checkmate
specializedSpecializes in rapid criminal background checks, sex offender searches, and arrest records.
Lightning-fast report generation with multi-source aggregation for comprehensive people searches
Instant Checkmate is an online background check service that aggregates public records to provide reports on criminal history, court records, contact information, addresses, and relatives. Users can initiate searches using a person's name, phone number, email, or address through a straightforward web or mobile app interface. It focuses on consumer-level personal investigations rather than professional or employment screening, delivering results quickly from multiple data sources.
Pros
- User-friendly search interface with mobile app support
- Unlimited reports during subscription period
- Broad coverage of public records including criminal and traffic data
Cons
- Inconsistent accuracy and outdated information in some reports
- Subscription auto-renewals and cancellation difficulties
- Not FCRA-compliant for employment or tenant screening
Best For
Individuals conducting personal background checks for dating, neighbor verification, or reconnecting with acquaintances.
Pricing
Starts at $35.12/month for unlimited searches; quarterly plan at $84.27 ($28.09/month); 5-day trial available for $1-$5.
Conclusion
The reviewed background search software provides varied solutions, with Checkr clearly leading as the top choice for its fast, FCRA-compliant services tailored for employers. GoodHire follows closely, offering user-friendly, compliant options perfect for small businesses, while TruthFinder stands out with comprehensive public records coverage, ensuring there’s a strong option for nearly every need.
Explore Checkr today to access reliable, efficient background screening that aligns with your specific requirements.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison