Updated July 2026

Gusto vs ADP TotalSource

Which HR and payroll software is right for your business? We compared pricing, features, ratings, and real-world use cases.

Based on 5,000 verified reviews · Last updated July 2026
Quick verdict: Gusto has transparent pricing starting at $40/month, while ADP TotalSource requires a custom quote — better for larger organizations.

At a Glance

Gusto
Full-service payroll and HR for small businesses
G2 ★★★★☆ 4.5/5
Capterra ★★★★☆ 4.6/5
$40/mo + $6/employee Free trial
ADP TotalSource
Full-service PEO for small and medium businesses
G2 ★★★★☆ 4.2/5
Capterra ★★★★☆ 4.3/5
Contact for pricing

Feature Comparison

Feature Gusto ADP TotalSource
Payroll processing ✓ ✓
Automated tax filing ✓ ✓
Direct deposit ✓ ✓
Benefits administration ✓ ✓
Time tracking ✓ ✓
Employee onboarding ✓ ✓
PTO management ✓ ✓
Contractor payments ✓ ✗
International payroll ✗ ✗
Mobile app ✓ ✓
API access ✓ ✓
Starting price $40/mo + $6/employee Contact for pricing
Countries supported US US
Best for Small Business, Startups, 1-100 Employees Small Business, Medium Business, Peo Seekers, 10-1000 Employees

Pros & Cons

Gusto

  • Easy setup
  • Great customer support
  • All-in-one payroll + HR
  • Automated tax filing
  • US-only
  • Pricier for large teams
  • Limited reporting

ADP TotalSource

  • Fortune 500 benefits access
  • Full PEO services
  • Strong compliance
  • Trusted ADP brand
  • US-only
  • Quote pricing
  • Long contracts
  • Complex exit process

Who Should Use Each?

Gusto User satisfaction matters most — Gusto holds a higher G2 rating (4.5 vs 4.2).
Gusto You want to try before you buy — only one of them offers a free trial.
Gusto You work with freelancers or contractors and need to pay them through the platform.

Related Comparisons

Gusto vs Rippling ADP TotalSource vs Gusto Gusto vs Deel ADP TotalSource vs BambooHR ← All HR Tool Comparisons Gusto alternatives → ADP TotalSource alternatives →

Ready to decide?

Try both and pick what works best for your team.

Try Gusto Free → Try ADP TotalSource →

* Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission if you sign up through our links, at no extra cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gusto better than ADP TotalSource?

It depends on your needs. Gusto is generally better for small business, startups, while ADP TotalSource shines for small business, medium business. Both have strong ratings on G2 and Capterra.

How much does Gusto cost compared to ADP TotalSource?

$40/mo + $6/employee vs Contact for pricing. Always check each vendor's official pricing page as rates may have changed.

Can I switch from Gusto to ADP TotalSource?

Yes, both platforms support data export. Most businesses complete a migration in 2–4 weeks. It's best to run both in parallel for one payroll cycle before fully switching.

Does Gusto or ADP TotalSource offer a free trial?

Yes, Gusto offers a free trial. ADP TotalSource does not currently offer a free trial.

Which is better for international payroll — Gusto or ADP TotalSource?

Neither currently offers international payroll — consider Deel or Remote for global hiring.