Gusto vs Rippling: An Honest Comparison for Growing Businesses

Gusto and Rippling are two of the most popular payroll and HR platforms for small to mid-sized businesses. But they're built for different types of companies, and picking the wrong one will cost you money and headaches.

Here's the bottom line upfront: Gusto is better for small businesses that want simple, transparent pricing and easy payroll. Rippling is better for tech-forward companies that need HR, IT, and finance tools unified in one platform.

Let's break down everything you need to make the right call.

Pricing Comparison: Gusto vs Rippling

This is where these two platforms diverge significantly.

Gusto Pricing

Gusto uses transparent, published pricing with three main tiers:

There's also a Contractor Only plan at $35/month + $6/contractor for businesses that only pay 1099 workers.

For a company with 15 employees, here's what you'd pay monthly:

Want more details? Check out our full Gusto pricing breakdown and Gusto review.

Rippling Pricing

Rippling doesn't publish pricing. You need to contact sales for a quote. That said, here's what we know from industry reports and user feedback:

Based on reported pricing from multiple sources, here's a realistic breakdown:

Industry sources suggest that Rippling's core HR features typically range from $21-29 per employee per month. A 50-employee company using payroll, HR services, and benefits could easily hit $1,500-2,500+/month depending on which modules are activated.

Some configurations also include a base fee (around $35-50/month) on top of the per-employee costs, though this varies by package.

The pricing verdict: Gusto wins on transparency. You know exactly what you'll pay before signing up. Rippling requires a sales call, and costs can escalate quickly as you add modules. However, for companies that need the full suite, Rippling's modular approach means you're only paying for what you use-though the total can still exceed Gusto significantly.

Hidden Costs and Billing Surprises

Both platforms have some considerations beyond the base pricing:

Gusto's Additional Costs:

Rippling's Potential Surprises:

Multiple users on Reddit and review sites have flagged Rippling's billing practices as a concern. One user reported being charged for 25 employees when they only had 15, with Rippling claiming they needed to pay for their historical peak headcount. Always clarify billing terms in your contract.

Core Features Comparison

Payroll

Both platforms handle the basics well: unlimited pay runs, automatic tax filing, W-2s and 1099s, direct deposit, and multi-state payroll (though Gusto's Simple plan is single-state only).

Gusto advantages:

Rippling advantages:

For straightforward domestic payroll, Gusto is simpler to use and faster to implement. For complex payroll needs with heavy automation and multi-system integration, Rippling edges ahead-but requires more setup time (typically 3-8 weeks for full implementation).

HR Features

Gusto:

Rippling:

Rippling's HR features are more extensive and powerful, especially for companies that want to build complex approval workflows and automate more processes. The platform treats each employee as a node in a dynamic system-when you update someone's role, their app permissions, manager notifications, and org chart position all update automatically.

Gusto's HR features are more straightforward and easier to use out of the box, making them ideal for smaller teams without dedicated HR staff.

IT Management (Rippling Only)

This is Rippling's killer feature that Gusto simply doesn't have. Rippling can:

If you're a tech company with remote workers who need laptops shipped and software accounts set up, Rippling does this automatically when you hire someone. When they leave, everything gets shut off instantly and the device retrieval process begins automatically. Gusto can't touch this-it's not even attempting to compete in the IT management space.

The IT management capabilities alone can justify Rippling's higher cost for tech companies. Instead of juggling separate tools like Jamf for device management, Okta for identity management, and manual spreadsheets for inventory tracking, you get everything in one place.

Benefits Administration

Gusto: Works as a broker for medical, dental, vision, and life insurance in all 50 states. Health insurance admin is included at no extra cost when using Gusto as your broker. You can also integrate an existing broker (free on Premium, $6/employee/month on Plus). Gusto also offers:

Rippling: Partners with major carriers and can manage benefits enrollment, FSA/HSA, 401(k), and commuter benefits. Works with existing brokers or can help you find new ones. Offers more flexibility for complex benefits packages including:

Gusto is easier and more affordable for simple benefits administration. Rippling handles more complex setups better and provides deeper integration with other HR and finance systems, making it easier to track total compensation costs.

User Experience and Interface

Gusto User Experience

Gusto is consistently praised for its clean, intuitive interface. Users with no prior payroll experience can typically figure out the system without extensive training. The dashboard is well-organized, with clear navigation and helpful prompts.

Key UX strengths:

G2 reviews consistently rate Gusto's ease of use at 9.5 out of 10, highlighting the simple, intuitive design that reduces the learning curve.

Rippling User Experience

Rippling offers a more sophisticated interface with significantly more features. While still well-designed, it has a steeper learning curve due to the platform's depth.

Key UX characteristics:

Users note that while Rippling takes longer to master, the investment pays off through long-term efficiency gains. You're not constantly working around platform limitations like you might with simpler systems.

International Capabilities

Gusto's Global Reach

Gusto's international capabilities are primarily focused on contractor payments:

For full-time international employees, Gusto offers Employer of Record (EOR) services powered by Remote, starting at $599/employee/month (promotional pricing). This allows you to hire full-time employees globally without establishing local entities.

Rippling's Global Capabilities

Rippling offers more comprehensive international support:

For companies with serious global expansion plans or existing international teams, Rippling's native global payroll capabilities are more robust than Gusto's contractor-focused approach.

Compliance and Security

Gusto Compliance Features

Gusto handles compliance well for U.S.-based small businesses:

Gusto proactively flags missing forms and required compliance tasks, making it easy for non-experts to stay compliant.

Rippling Compliance Features

Rippling offers more sophisticated compliance capabilities:

For companies operating across multiple states or countries with complex compliance requirements, Rippling's automated compliance engine provides more comprehensive coverage.

Integrations and Ecosystem

Gusto Integrations

Gusto integrates with popular small business tools including:

Gusto offers solid coverage for most small business needs, with integrations that work reliably and sync data automatically. However, the integration ecosystem is smaller and less sophisticated than Rippling's.

Rippling Integrations

Rippling integrates with 650+ applications across multiple categories:

Rippling's integrations are deeper because of its unified data architecture. Changes sync automatically and bi-directionally across connected tools. The platform also supports custom SCIM and SAML integrations for enterprise-specific needs.

Rippling wins decisively on integrations, especially for companies using a lot of SaaS tools or requiring sophisticated data flows between systems.

Customer Support

Gusto Support

Gusto: Offers email and chat support available on all plans. Support hours are 6am-6pm MST (previously 5am-5pm PT), Monday-Friday. Premium plan customers get:

Gusto was ranked #1 in customer satisfaction by G2, with users consistently praising the helpful and responsive support team. However, the lack of phone support on lower-tier plans frustrates some users when they need immediate assistance.

Rippling Support

Rippling: Provides email and chat support with an extensive online knowledge base. Key support features:

Rippling has significantly improved its customer support. Users note that response times are fast and support staff are knowledgeable. However, the lack of included phone support is a drawback for companies that prefer voice communication.

Real User Experiences from Reddit and Review Sites

What Gusto Users Say

Positive feedback commonly includes:

Common complaints:

What Rippling Users Say

Positive feedback:

Common complaints:

One Reddit user specifically noted: "We were told that Rippling charges per employee per month... we were told the higher charge was because Rippling is charging us for the number of employees we have, which is 25. We quickly said no, that is incorrect; we only have 15 employees. To which the response from Rippling was, 'Well, you once had 25 employees, so you need to continue to pay for 25 employees even if you don't have 25 employees.'" This highlights the importance of thoroughly reviewing contract terms.

Who Should Use Gusto?

Gusto is the right choice if you:

Gusto excels for restaurants, retail stores, professional services firms, small agencies, and traditional small businesses that just need payroll and basic HR to work without hassle. It's also ideal for startups in their early stages that want to get up and running quickly.

Try Gusto free →

Who Should Use Rippling?

Rippling is the right choice if you:

Rippling shines for tech startups, SaaS companies, remote-first organizations, and businesses with complex operational needs who want everything connected. It's also excellent for companies scaling rapidly who need a platform that can grow with them.

Implementation and Onboarding

Getting Started with Gusto

Gusto's implementation is straightforward:

Getting Started with Rippling

Rippling's implementation is more involved:

The longer Rippling implementation is an investment, but it pays off through automation that eliminates ongoing manual work.

The Downsides You Should Know

Gusto Drawbacks

Rippling Drawbacks

Time Tracking Capabilities

Gusto Time Tracking

Gusto includes basic time tracking integrated with payroll:

Gusto's time tracking works well for basic needs but may require third-party integrations for complex workforce management scenarios.

Rippling Time Tracking

Rippling offers more sophisticated time and attendance features:

For teams with complex labor tracking needs, shift workers, or project-based billing, Rippling's time tracking is more comprehensive.

Performance Management and Employee Development

Gusto's Approach

Gusto includes basic performance management features on Plus and Premium plans:

These features cover the fundamentals but aren't as sophisticated as dedicated performance management platforms.

Rippling's Approach

Rippling offers more comprehensive performance management:

For companies focused on employee development and performance-driven cultures, Rippling provides more depth.

Spend Management and Finance Tools

Gusto's Financial Tools

Gusto focuses primarily on payroll-related finances:

Gusto doesn't attempt to be a comprehensive finance platform-it stays focused on payroll and HR.

Rippling's Finance Capabilities

Rippling Spend offers comprehensive spend management:

For companies wanting to unify HR, payroll, and finance operations, Rippling's spend management tools provide significant additional value.

Making Your Decision

Here's a simple framework:

Choose Gusto If...Choose Rippling If...
You have <50 employeesYou have 25+ employees and growing
You want simple, predictable pricingYou need HR + IT + Finance unified
You need basic payroll and HRYou have remote workers needing device management
You value ease of use over featuresYou want deep automation across systems
You're a traditional small businessYou're a tech company or startup
You need to launch quickly (1-2 days)You can invest 3-8 weeks in proper setup
You primarily hire domesticallyYou have or plan global team members
You want transparent pricingYou're willing to discuss custom pricing

Most businesses under 30 employees will be happier with Gusto. It's simpler, cheaper for basic needs, and just works without overthinking.

If you're a growing tech company with remote workers, complex workflows, and you need IT management, Rippling is worth the extra cost and complexity. The unified platform prevents the inefficiencies that come from juggling multiple disconnected systems.

Migration Considerations

Switching to Gusto

If you're considering moving to Gusto:

Switching to Rippling

If you're considering moving to Rippling:

Both platforms emphasize that you don't have to wait until year-end to switch-they can handle mid-year transitions with proper setup.

Industry-Specific Considerations

Restaurants and Hospitality

Gusto works well with POS system integrations (Square, Toast, Clover) and handles tip reporting effectively. The simplicity is ideal for restaurant managers who need payroll to just work.

Rippling may be overkill unless you're a multi-location restaurant group needing centralized management and complex scheduling.

Retail

Gusto integrates with retail POS systems and time tracking tools, providing everything most retail businesses need at an affordable price point.

Rippling makes sense for retail chains with multiple locations needing unified reporting and standardized processes across sites.

Professional Services

Gusto is popular with law firms, accounting firms, and consulting agencies for its simplicity and professional presentation to clients (when applicable).

Rippling works better for professional services firms with complex project tracking, client billing integration needs, and sophisticated reporting requirements.

Technology Companies

Gusto can work for very early-stage startups (pre-Series A) who need basic payroll without complications.

Rippling is designed for tech companies and offers the IT management, security controls, and scalability that growing startups need. The device provisioning and app management features are particularly valuable for distributed tech teams.

Healthcare

Gusto handles basic healthcare practice needs but may lack specialized compliance features required in certain healthcare settings.

Rippling offers more robust compliance tracking and can handle complex shift scheduling and credential tracking needed in healthcare organizations.

Construction and Field Services

Gusto works with mobile time tracking apps and handles certified payroll for prevailing wage projects.

Rippling provides better tools for managing distributed field teams, mobile device management, and location-based time tracking.

Looking at Other Options?

If neither Gusto nor Rippling feels right, consider these alternatives:

Need help finding the best payroll solution for your situation? Our guide to payroll software for small business covers more options.

Security and Data Protection

Gusto Security

Gusto takes security seriously with:

Rippling Security

Rippling provides enterprise-grade security:

Both platforms meet industry security standards, but Rippling offers more granular security controls appropriate for companies with stringent security requirements.

The Future: Which Platform is Innovating Faster?

Gusto continues to enhance its core payroll and HR features, adding capabilities like improved contractor payments, enhanced benefits administration, and better reporting. The company focuses on making its existing features more reliable and user-friendly rather than expanding into adjacent categories.

Rippling is aggressively expanding its platform, recently adding spend management, learning management, and enhanced global capabilities. The company's unified data architecture allows it to launch new modules that immediately benefit from integration with existing features. Rippling is clearly positioning itself to replace an entire stack of HR, IT, and finance tools.

If your priority is stability and reliability in core payroll and HR, Gusto's focused approach is reassuring. If you want a platform that will grow with you and eliminate multiple tools over time, Rippling's innovation trajectory is compelling.

Total Cost of Ownership Analysis

When comparing true costs, consider more than just subscription fees:

Gusto TCO (Total Cost of Ownership)

For a 30-employee company on the Plus plan:

Rippling TCO (Total Cost of Ownership)

For a 30-employee company with HR, Payroll, and IT modules:

Rippling costs more upfront but can actually reduce total costs when you factor in eliminated tools and saved labor hours. The calculation depends heavily on your specific needs.

Final Verdict

For most small businesses (under 50 employees), Gusto is the better choice. It's more affordable, easier to use, faster to implement, and does everything a typical small business needs without overcomplicating things. The transparent pricing means you'll never get surprised by your bill, and the intuitive interface means you won't waste time learning complex features you don't need.

For tech companies, fast-growing startups, and businesses with remote teams needing device management, Rippling's unified platform and IT management capabilities justify the higher cost and sales-driven pricing model. The time saved through automation and the elimination of multiple point solutions can deliver ROI that exceeds the price difference.

The hybrid approach: Some companies start with Gusto in their early days and migrate to Rippling as they grow and their needs become more complex. This strategy minimizes costs early while keeping the door open for more sophisticated tools later.

The good news: both are quality platforms from reputable companies. You won't go wrong with either if you match it to your actual needs. The key is being honest about your current requirements and near-term growth trajectory.

If you value simplicity, transparency, and want to be up and running tomorrow-choose Gusto.

If you need unified HR, IT, and finance with powerful automation and can invest in proper setup-choose Rippling.

Get started with Gusto →