Gusto vs Rippling
Gusto and Rippling are both popular options in this category. After extensive testing, Gusto leads with a 9/10 rating, though the best choice depends on your specific needs.
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Quick Answer
Gusto beats Rippling for most users. It scores 9/10 vs 8.8/10 and full-service payroll included. Choose Rippling if you need combines hr + it + finance.
Gusto
WinnerAll-in-one payroll, benefits, and HR platform
Starting from
$40/mo
Rippling
Unified HR, IT, and Finance platform
Starting from
$8/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
| Starting Price | $40/mo | $8/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Core HR | ||
| Payroll | ||
| Benefits Admin | ||
| Time Tracking | ||
| PTO Management | ||
| Talent | ||
| ATS/Recruiting | ||
| Onboarding | ||
| Performance Management | Add-on | Add-on |
| Features | ||
| Employee Self-Service | ||
| Compliance Tools | ||
| Mobile App | ||
| Reporting | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Gusto
- Full-service payroll included
- Excellent benefits administration
- Very user-friendly
- Automated tax filing
- Great for small businesses
- Transparent pricing
- Limited for larger companies
- Some features cost extra
- International payroll limited
Rippling
- Combines HR + IT + Finance
- Powerful automation
- Device management included
- Excellent app management
- Global payroll available
- Fast implementation
- Can get expensive with add-ons
- Many modules sold separately
- Learning curve for full platform
Key Difference
The key difference: Gusto offers tax filing while Rippling provides device management. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
Gusto
Choose Gusto if you prioritize full-service payroll included, want to start with a free tier, or value excellent benefits administration.
Rippling
Choose Rippling if you prioritize combines hr + it + finance, want to start with a free tier, or value powerful automation.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, Gusto is our winner with a rating of 9/10 compared to Rippling's 8.8/10. Gusto stands out for its full-service payroll included and excellent benefits administration. While Rippling is more affordable, Gusto's advantages justify the price difference for most users. However, Rippling remains an excellent choice if combines hr + it + finance is your priority. There's no universally "wrong" choice here - both are quality options that serve their target audiences well.
Thinking of Switching?
Consider the migration effort before switching. Most services offer data export, but rebuilding workflows and configurations takes time. Evaluate whether the benefits outweigh the switching costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gusto better than Rippling?
Gusto scores higher in our testing (9/10 vs 8.8/10). Gusto excels at full-service payroll included, while Rippling is better for combines hr + it + finance.
Which is cheaper, Gusto or Rippling?
Rippling is more affordable at $8.00/mo vs $40.00/mo. Rippling offers 80% savings.
Gusto vs Rippling: which should I choose?
Choose Gusto if you prioritize full-service payroll included. Choose Rippling if you need combines hr + it + finance. Both are solid hr software options.
What's the main difference between Gusto and Rippling?
The main difference is Gusto offers all-in-one payroll, benefits, and hr platform, while Rippling focuses on unified hr, it, and finance platform.