Rippling vs Gusto
Rippling and Gusto 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.
Rippling
Unified HR, IT, and Finance platform
Starting from
$8/mo
Gusto
WinnerAll-in-one payroll, benefits, and HR platform
Starting from
$40/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.8/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Starting Price | $8/mo | $40/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
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
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
Key Difference
The key difference: Rippling offers device management while Gusto provides tax filing. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
Rippling
Choose Rippling if you prioritize combines hr + it + finance, want to start with a free tier, or value powerful automation.
Gusto
Choose Gusto if you prioritize full-service payroll included, want to start with a free tier, or value excellent benefits administration.
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 Rippling better than Gusto?
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, Rippling or Gusto?
Rippling is more affordable at $8.00/mo vs $40.00/mo. Rippling offers 80% savings.
Rippling vs Gusto: which should I choose?
Choose Rippling if you prioritize combines hr + it + finance. Choose Gusto if you need full-service payroll included. Both are solid hr software options.
What's the main difference between Rippling and Gusto?
The main difference is Rippling offers unified hr, it, and finance platform, while Gusto focuses on all-in-one payroll, benefits, and hr platform.