Payroll Services · October 2026
Gusto vs ADP: simple small-business payroll or a platform built to scale
Gusto
ADP
Gusto is full-service payroll designed for small businesses. It calculates, files and pays federal, state and local payroll taxes each time you run payroll, supports employees and contractors in all fifty states, files 1099s for contractors, and pays international contractors in more than a hundred countries. Benefits such as health insurance, 401(k) plans and PTO, plus HR tools and time tracking, sit in the same system, with unlimited payroll runs.
ADP is one of the largest payroll providers, with over a million clients. RUN Powered by ADP serves small businesses, Workforce Now serves midsized and larger firms, and Global Payroll covers many countries. It adds compliance help, around-the-clock payroll support and HR outsourcing, with quote-based pricing.
The difference: Gusto is easier for small teams, ADP goes further as you grow.
| Gusto Our pick | ADP | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 9.6/10 · Outstanding | 9.2/10 · Very Good |
| Rank | #1 in Payroll Services | #2 in Payroll Services |
| Price | $406.00 | — |
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| Get Deal | Get Deal |
Our verdict
Gusto leads for most readers because most people comparing payroll run a small business and want it done right with little effort. Setup is straightforward, taxes are filed automatically, contractors are handled cleanly, and benefits and HR live in the same app.
ADP is the better choice for companies that are already large, expect to grow fast, or employ people in several countries. It can move a business from RUN to Workforce Now without changing provider, offers HR outsourcing and PEO services, and its compliance resources suit firms with more complex obligations. Pricing is by quote, so ask for a detailed breakdown, including any add-ons.
Payroll tax rules vary by state and country. Neither tool replaces advice from an accountant or payroll specialist when your situation is unusual.
Get Deal — GustoRead the full reviews: Gusto review · ADP review · or see all our Payroll Services picks.