Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) vs Gusto: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) 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:
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.
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
| At a Glance |  Gusto | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Employee Onboarding | Payroll |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) | 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 | Employee OnboardingHRIS | PayrollEmployee Onboarding |
How Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) and Gusto Compare
Shapes (formerly DreamTeam)
AI-native PeopleOS that automates HR processes and adapts to your company's unique needs.
Paid
Gusto
Modern HR, benefits, and payroll
Paid · 86/100 score
Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) is a employee onboarding tool. Gusto is in payroll.
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?
Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) is a employee onboarding tool. Gusto is in payroll. 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 Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) or Gusto better?
Gusto scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) and Gusto used for?
Shapes (formerly DreamTeam): AI-native PeopleOS that automates HR processes and adapts to your company's unique needs.. Gusto: Modern HR, benefits, and payroll.
What does Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) cost vs Gusto?
Shapes (formerly DreamTeam) is a paid tool. Gusto is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.