Central vs Gusto: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Central and Gusto comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 22, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Central
AI-native platform for payroll, HR, benefits, and compliance for startups.
Best for you if:
- • Automates payroll, HR, benefits, and compliance using AI and human experts.
- • Offers comprehensive back-office management for US employees and global contractors.
Gusto
Modern HR, benefits, and payroll
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • Gusto is an all-in-one payroll and HR platform for small businesses
- • It handles payroll, benefits, onboarding, and compliance with easy-to-use tools
| At a Glance |  Central |  Gusto |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Payroll | Payroll |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Central | Gusto |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | PayrollHRIS | PayrollEmployee Onboarding |
How Central and Gusto Compare
Central
AI-native platform for payroll, HR, benefits, and compliance for startups.
Paid
Gusto
Modern HR, benefits, and payroll
Paid · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Gusto
Want the highest-rated option?
Gusto scores 86/100. Central is unrated.
Go with: Gusto
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Gusto
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are payroll tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Gusto
- Higher score: 86/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
Central
The Bottom Line
Gusto (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Central or Gusto better?
Gusto scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Central and Gusto used for?
Central: AI-native platform for payroll, HR, benefits, and compliance for startups.. Gusto: Modern HR, benefits, and payroll.
What does Central cost vs Gusto?
Central is a paid tool. Gusto is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.