ADP Run vs Gusto: which one fits your business?
Side-by-side comparison of ADP Run and Gusto — fees, features, ease, support, and which one fits your business. Scored on the same rubric.
Short answer: Gusto wins on our scorecard (7.9/10 vs 7.6/10).
| Scored on | ADP Run | Gusto |
|---|---|---|
| Right fit for small biz | 8 | 9 |
| Ease of use | 8 | 8 |
| Fees & pricing | 6 | 7 |
| Customer support | 7 | 6 |
| Features | 9 | 9 |
| Base Pricing | Custom Quote Only | — |
| Direct Deposit | Included in most tiers | — |
| W-2/1099 Filing | Additional Fee (varies) | — |
| Implementation Fee | $0 - $200 (often waived) | — |
| Simple Base Fee | — | $40/mo |
| Simple Per-Person | — | $6/mo |
| Plus Base Fee | — | $80/mo |
| Contractor Only Base | — | $35/mo |
ADP Run in one paragraph
A robust, scalable payroll powerhouse that excels in tax compliance but requires a sharp eye on contract terms and pricing hikes.
Skip it if: You are a solopreneur with zero employees or a tiny team that prioritizes the lowest possible monthly cost.
Gusto in one paragraph
Gusto is the gold standard for small business payroll automation, trading high-touch human support for a near-perfect digital interface.
Skip it if: You have a complex multi-state employee base and require a dedicated, 24/7 human account manager to handle manual tax adjustments.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, ADP Run or Gusto?
On our five-axis scorecard, Gusto scores higher (7.9/10 vs 7.6/10). Gusto is the gold standard for small business payroll automation, trading high-touch human support for a near-perfect digital interface.
Who should skip ADP Run?
You are a solopreneur with zero employees or a tiny team that prioritizes the lowest possible monthly cost.
Who should skip Gusto?
You have a complex multi-state employee base and require a dedicated, 24/7 human account manager to handle manual tax adjustments.