Rippling vs Gusto: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Rippling 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 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Rippling
Workforce management platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • You need workflow automation features specifically
- • Rippling is an HR, IT, and Finance platform for workforce management
- • It unifies payroll, benefits, devices, and apps in one system
Gusto
Modern HR, benefits, and payroll
Best for you if:
- • 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
| At a Glance |  Rippling |  Gusto |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Workflow Automation | Payroll |
Rating | 90/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Rippling | Gusto |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 90 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Workflow AutomationPayroll | PayrollEmployee Onboarding |
How Rippling and Gusto Compare
Rippling
Workforce management platform
Paid · 90/100 score
Gusto
Modern HR, benefits, and payroll
Paid · 86/100 score
Rippling is a workflow automation tool. Gusto is in payroll.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Rippling
Want the highest-rated option?
Rippling: 90/100. Gusto: 86/100.
Go with: Rippling
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Rippling
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?
Rippling is a workflow automation tool. Gusto is in payroll. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Rippling scores higher: 90/100 vs 86/100.
Key Takeaways
Rippling
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 86
- Our pick for this comparison
Gusto
- Better fit for payroll
The Bottom Line
Rippling (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rippling or Gusto better?
Rippling scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Rippling and Gusto used for?
Rippling: Workforce management platform. Gusto: Modern HR, benefits, and payroll.
What does Rippling cost vs Gusto?
Rippling is a paid tool. Gusto is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.