Side by side · Payroll software
Gusto vs QuickBooks Payroll
Who should pick which, from each company’s own pricing pages and terms.
We check it out so you don’t have to.
How we researched this page: we read each company’s own pricing pages and terms, independent tests, and customer reviews. We did not use these products ourselves. Prices change often, so each one shows the date we checked it.
In short: Gusto — most small businesses, easy setup. QuickBooks Payroll — businesses already on QuickBooks. The details, prices and honest downsides are below.
| Item | Gusto | QuickBooks Payroll |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Most small businesses, easy setup | Businesses already on QuickBooks |
| Starting price | $49/mo + $6 per person, checked October 25, 2026 | See the official site |
| Trial / refund | See the official site | See the official site |
Who Gusto fits
Small businesses that want easy payroll, tax filings, benefits and onboarding.
Watch out for: Per-person fees add up for larger teams. Phone support is better on higher plans.
Who QuickBooks Payroll fits
Businesses that already keep their books in QuickBooks.
Watch out for: Pricier than Gusto or Patriot for a similar core feature set.
Quick verdict
Gusto is the easiest all-round pick for most small businesses. QuickBooks Payroll makes sense if you already keep your books in QuickBooks, though it tends to cost more than Gusto for a similar core feature set.
Visit QuickBooks Payroll’s official site
More on each: our full Gusto review · our full QuickBooks Payroll review
See every option in Best Payroll Software for Small Businesses, including companies not covered here.
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