Xref vs Glassdoor: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Xref and Glassdoor 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Xref
Build better teams with automated reference, background, and engagement tools.
Best for you if:
- • You need recruiting features specifically
- • Automates reference and background checks to speed up hiring and ensure compliance.
- • Provides comprehensive employee engagement, pulse, and exit surveys for culture building and retention.
Glassdoor
Job search with company reviews
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need reviews & ugc features specifically
- • You need job search with company reviews
- • You want to start free and upgrade later
| At a Glance |  Xref |  Glassdoor |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Recruiting | Reviews & UGC |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Xref | Glassdoor |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 60 |
| Categories | RecruitingEmployee Engagement | Reviews & UGCRecruiting |
How Xref and Glassdoor Compare
Xref
Build better teams with automated reference, background, and engagement tools.
Paid
Glassdoor
Job search with company reviews
Free tier available
Xref is a recruiting tool. Glassdoor is in reviews & ugc.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Glassdoor has a free tier. Xref is paid only.
Go with: Glassdoor
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: Xref
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Xref
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Xref is paid. Glassdoor is freemium. Glassdoor lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Xref is a recruiting tool. Glassdoor is in reviews & ugc. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Xref
- Our pick for this comparison
Glassdoor
- Has a free tier
- More community upvotes (60)
- Better fit for reviews & ugc
The Bottom Line
Xref is our pick. Glassdoor has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Xref or Glassdoor better?
Xref scores high/100 in our evaluation. Xref is paid and Glassdoor is freemium.
What are Xref and Glassdoor used for?
Xref: Build better teams with automated reference, background, and engagement tools.. Glassdoor: Job search with company reviews.
What does Xref cost vs Glassdoor?
Xref is a paid tool. Glassdoor is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.