7shifts vs Bonusly: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between 7shifts and Bonusly comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
7shifts
Streamline restaurant operations with integrated scheduling, payroll, and team management tools.
Best for you if:
- • You need hris features specifically
- • Restaurant scheduling and labor management platform.
- • Integrates with payroll for streamlined operations.
Bonusly
Reimagine employee recognition and rewards to drive continuous performance and build a thriving culture.
Best for you if:
- • You need employee engagement features specifically
- • Facilitates peer-to-peer recognition to build connections and reinforce values.
- • Provides managers with tools for coaching, goal tracking, and performance guidance.
| At a Glance |  Bonusly | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | HRIS | Employee Engagement |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | 7shifts | Bonusly |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | HRISPayroll | Employee EngagementPerformance Management |
Understanding the Differences
Both 7shifts and Bonusly solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.7shifts positions itself as "streamline restaurant operations with integrated scheduling, payroll, and team management tools." while Bonuslyfocuses on "reimagine employee recognition and rewards to drive continuous performance and build a thriving culture.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose 7shifts
7shifts makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution.
When to Choose Bonusly
Bonusly is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, 7shifts lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: 7shifts
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Bonusly is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Bonusly
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: 7shifts
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with 7shifts, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated 7shifts higher (/100). But the community has upvoted Bonusly more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What 7shifts Does Better
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Bonusly If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with 7shifts. But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. 7shifts scores higher in our analysis, but Bonusly might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 7shifts or Bonusly better?
Based on our analysis, 7shifts scores higher with high/100. 7shifts isfreemium while Bonusly is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from 7shifts to Bonusly easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do 7shifts and Bonusly offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. 7shifts is freemium with a free tier.Bonusly is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.