Updated July 2026

Gusto vs QuickBooks Payroll

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

Based on 6,300 verified reviews · Last updated July 2026
Quick verdict: Gusto is more affordable for small teams starting out, while QuickBooks Payroll offers more advanced features for growing businesses.

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
QuickBooks Payroll
Payroll built right into QuickBooks accounting
G2 ★★★★☆ 4.2/5
Capterra ★★★★☆ 4.4/5
$45/mo + $6/employee Free trial

Feature Comparison

Feature Gusto QuickBooks Payroll
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 $45/mo + $6/employee
Countries supported US US
Best for Small Business, Startups, 1-100 Employees Small Business, Quickbooks Users, 1-50 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

QuickBooks Payroll

  • Seamless QuickBooks integration
  • Automatic tax filings
  • Next-day direct deposit
  • Easy to use
  • US-only
  • Best only if you use QuickBooks
  • Limited HR features
  • Can be buggy

Who Should Use Each?

Gusto You're a small team on a tight budget and want the most affordable option with solid core features.
Gusto User satisfaction matters most — Gusto holds a higher G2 rating (4.5 vs 4.2).

Related Comparisons

Gusto vs Rippling QuickBooks Payroll vs Gusto Gusto vs Deel QuickBooks Payroll vs BambooHR ← All HR Tool Comparisons Gusto alternatives → QuickBooks Payroll alternatives →

Ready to decide?

Try both and pick what works best for your team.

Try Gusto Free → Try QuickBooks Payroll Free →

* 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 QuickBooks Payroll?

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

How much does Gusto cost compared to QuickBooks Payroll?

$40/mo + $6/employee vs $45/mo + $6/employee. Always check each vendor's official pricing page as rates may have changed.

Can I switch from Gusto to QuickBooks Payroll?

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 QuickBooks Payroll offer a free trial?

Yes, Gusto offers a free trial. Yes, QuickBooks Payroll offers a free trial.

Which is better for international payroll — Gusto or QuickBooks Payroll?

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