Backgrounds Online vs Certn
Side-by-side from the Top 11 ranking of The 11 Best Background Check Services (2026). Last verified June 13, 2026.
The short answer
Certn ranks higher on Top 11 (#7 vs #8) for Employers screening candidates. Best for speed, delivering basic checks in minutes through a modern platform.
At a glance
| Backgrounds Online | Certn | |
|---|---|---|
| Top 11 rank | #8 / The 11 Best Background Check Services (2026) | #7 / The 11 Best Background Check Services (2026) |
| Score (out of 9.4) | 7.8 | 8 |
| Best for | SMBs wanting personal service | Fast screening for tech companies |
| Pricing | $ ($19 to $69+ per check) | $$ (Quote-based, starts ~$25) |
| HQ | Sacramento, USA | Victoria, Canada |
| Founded | 1997 | 2016 |
Backgrounds Online
Best for its top-tier customer support and transparent pricing for small organizations.
www.backgroundsonline.comSee full entry in The 11 Best Background Check Services (2026)
Certn
Best for speed, delivering basic checks in minutes through a modern platform.
certn.coSee full entry in The 11 Best Background Check Services (2026)
Methodology and scoring weights live at /methodology. No vendor pays for placement — see about.