Gusto vs ADP Run: Which is Better in 2026?

A detailed side-by-side comparison to help you choose between Gusto and ADP Run.

G
Gusto

Starting at $40/mo + $6/person

9.0

Modern payroll and HR platform built for small businesses with benefits and compliance tools.

Pros

  • + Very easy to use
  • + Great employee self-service
  • + Excellent benefits integration
  • + Modern interface

Cons

  • - Gets expensive per employee
  • - Limited HR tools on basic plan
  • - No mobile app for employers
A
ADP Run

Starting at Custom

8.3

Payroll and HR solution from ADP designed for small businesses with 1-49 employees.

Pros

  • + Trusted brand with decades of experience
  • + Strong compliance tools
  • + Scalable as you grow
  • + Good mobile app

Cons

  • - Pricing is not transparent
  • - Can be complex to set up
  • - Customer support varies

Feature-by-Feature Comparison

FeatureGustoADP Run
Ease of Use
10/10
7/10
Pricing Transparency
9/10
3/10
Benefits Administration
9/10
8/10
Compliance Tools
7/10
10/10
Scalability
6/10
10/10
Employee Self-Service
9/10
8/10
Mobile App
7/10
8/10
Setup Speed
9/10
6/10

Pricing Comparison

Gusto Pricing

Simple$40/mo + $6/person
Plus$80/mo + $12/person
PremiumCustom

ADP Run Pricing

EssentialCustom
EnhancedCustom
CompleteCustom
HR ProCustom

Our Verdict

Gusto is the best choice for small businesses wanting modern, easy-to-use payroll with transparent pricing, while ADP Run offers enterprise-grade compliance and scalability for growing companies.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gusto or ADP Run better?
Gusto is the best choice for small businesses wanting modern, easy-to-use payroll with transparent pricing, while ADP Run offers enterprise-grade compliance and scalability for growing companies.
Which is cheaper, Gusto or ADP Run?
Gusto starts at $40/mo + $6/person while ADP Run starts at Custom. However, pricing depends on your team size and required features, so compare the tiers carefully.
Can I migrate from Gusto to ADP Run?
Yes, both tools support data import/export. Most users can migrate their data in a few hours. Some tools also offer migration assistance for larger accounts.
Which has better customer support?
Both Gusto and ADP Run offer email and chat support. Higher-tier plans from both vendors include priority or phone support. Check the specific plan details for your needs.