Gusto vs Shapes (formerly DreamTeam): Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Gusto and Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) 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 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Gusto
Modern HR, benefits, and payroll
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need payroll features specifically
- • 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
Shapes (formerly DreamTeam)
AI-native PeopleOS that automates HR processes and adapts to your company's unique needs.
Best for you if:
- • You need employee onboarding features specifically
- • AI-native PeopleOS that unifies all HR processes.
- • Automates workflows and generates insights with AI.
| At a Glance |  Gusto | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Payroll | Employee Onboarding |
Rating | 86/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Gusto | Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 86 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | PayrollEmployee Onboarding | Employee OnboardingHRIS |
How Gusto and Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) Compare
Gusto
Modern HR, benefits, and payroll
Paid · 86/100 score
Shapes (formerly DreamTeam)
AI-native PeopleOS that automates HR processes and adapts to your company's unique needs.
Paid
Gusto is a payroll tool. Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) is in employee onboarding.
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. Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) 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?
Gusto is a payroll tool. Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) is in employee onboarding. Pick the category that matches your needs.
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
Shapes (formerly DreamTeam)
- Better fit for employee onboarding
The Bottom Line
Gusto (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gusto or Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) better?
Gusto scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Gusto and Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) used for?
Gusto: Modern HR, benefits, and payroll. Shapes (formerly DreamTeam): AI-native PeopleOS that automates HR processes and adapts to your company's unique needs..
What does Gusto cost vs Shapes (formerly DreamTeam)?
Gusto is a paid tool. Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.