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Quick verdict

Gusto is easier with transparent, published pricing. ADP is the bigger provider with deeper compliance support and options that scale to large companies: priced by quote.

Side by side

ADP RUNGusto
Our rating4.2/54.5/5
Value3.6/54.3/5
Features4.6/54.4/5
Ease of use4/54.8/5
Output quality4.5/54.5/5
CategoryHR & payrollHR & payroll
Free planNo: custom quoteNo: free setup
Cheapest paid plan (monthly) - $49/mo
Same plan billed yearly - -
Top plan-Premium: $180/mo
SeatsQuote based on workers, pay frequency and featuresBase fee plus a per-person fee
Trial / refundQuote and sales callFree account setup
PlatformsWeb, iOS, AndroidWeb, iOS, Android
Best forBusinesses that want a big, established payroll provider with phone supportUS small businesses running their first payroll

ADP RUN: pros & cons

  • Deep compliance and tax expertise
  • Scales from 1 employee to enterprise
  • Strong benefits and insurance options
  • No published prices
  • Add-ons can make costs hard to compare

Read the full ADP RUN review

Gusto: pros & cons

  • Transparent pricing
  • Very easy to run payroll
  • Benefits, 401(k) and HR built in
  • Per-person fees add up as you grow
  • Fewer advanced HR and IT tools than Rippling

Read the full Gusto review

At a glance

Gusto ADP RUN
Pricing Published: $49/mo + $6/person Quote
Ease of use Excellent Good
Support Online + HR experts on Premium Phone support, dedicated reps
Scale Small to mid-size 1 employee to enterprise

Frequently asked questions

Is Gusto cheaper than ADP?

Often for small teams, but get an ADP quote: promotions vary.

Which is better for 1-10 employees?

Gusto is usually simpler.

Questions from readers

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