Sterling vs HireRight

A detailed comparison of Sterling and HireRight. See how they stack up on features, pricing, and user ratings.

Sterling

Enterprise background screening and identity verification provider offering criminal checks, drug testing, credential verification, and onboarding across 240+ countries and territories.

Rating 4.2/5
Best for Enterprise
Free trial No
Free plan No
Visit Sterling →

HireRight

Global employment screening provider offering background checks, drug and health screening, I-9 and E-Verify, and compliance solutions across 200+ countries and territories.

Rating 3.9/5
Best for Enterprise
Free trial No
Free plan No
Visit HireRight →

Feature Comparison

Feature Sterling HireRight
Workflow Automation
Reporting Dashboard
GDPR Compliance
API Access
HRIS Integration
Background Checks
Reference Checking

Pricing Comparison

Sterling

Platform Custom

HireRight

Platform Custom

Pros & Cons

Sterling

Pros

  • +One of the largest background check providers globally
  • +Strong in regulated industries (finance, healthcare)
  • +Comprehensive international screening
  • +Enterprise compliance and analytics

Cons

  • -Not transparent pricing — enterprise quotes only
  • -Long onboarding and implementation process
  • -Interface dated compared to newer providers
  • -Overkill for small companies

HireRight

Pros

  • +Global background screening in 200+ countries
  • +Enterprise-grade compliance and audit trails
  • +Strong drug testing program management
  • +Deep ATS integrations

Cons

  • -Expensive — built for enterprise volumes
  • -Turnaround times can be slow for some checks
  • -Interface not as modern as Checkr
  • -Contract commitments required

Which Should You Choose?

Choose Sterling if:

  • • Your company is Enterprise size
  • • One of the largest background check providers globally
  • • Higher user ratings matter to you (4.2 vs 3.9)

Choose HireRight if:

  • • Your company is Enterprise size
  • • Global background screening in 200+ countries