Gusto vs Rippling: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Gusto and Rippling 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 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
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
| At a Glance |  Gusto |  Rippling |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Payroll | Workflow Automation |
Rating | 86/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | Gusto | Rippling |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | PayrollEmployee Onboarding | Workflow AutomationPayroll |
How Gusto and Rippling Compare
Gusto
Modern HR, benefits, and payroll
Paid · 86/100 score
Rippling
Workforce management platform
Paid · 90/100 score
Gusto is a payroll tool. Rippling is in workflow automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Rippling
Want the highest-rated option?
Gusto: 86/100. Rippling: 90/100.
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?
Gusto is a payroll tool. Rippling is in workflow automation. 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 Gusto or Rippling better?
Rippling scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Gusto and Rippling used for?
Gusto: Modern HR, benefits, and payroll. Rippling: Workforce management platform.
What does Gusto cost vs Rippling?
Gusto is a paid tool. Rippling is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.