Copper vs Gusto
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Gusto is our recommended pick for most teams — small businesses under 100 employees.
Try Gusto →Read our full Gusto review →Copper
Copper is a CRM platform built specifically for Google Workspace users. It integrates deeply with Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Drive to automatically capture contacts and activities without manual data entry. Copper is the ideal CRM for teams that live in Google Workspace and want a CRM that works seamlessly within it.
Gusto
Gusto is a full-service HR and payroll platform built for small businesses. It handles payroll taxes automatically, offers employee benefits administration, and includes onboarding tools that make it easy to bring on new hires. Gusto is known for its clean interface and transparent pricing, making it a top choice for founders managing HR for the first time.
Pros
- ✓Seamless Google Workspace integration — works directly in Gmail
- ✓Automatic data capture eliminates manual CRM entry
- ✓Clean and intuitive interface
- ✓Good value for Google-first teams
Cons
- ✗Only useful if your team uses Google Workspace
- ✗Limited features outside of Google ecosystem
- ✗Not suitable for enterprise-level CRM needs
Pros
- ✓Automatic federal, state, and local tax filing saves hours each month
- ✓Transparent flat-rate pricing with no hidden fees
- ✓Excellent onboarding flow with offer letters, e-signatures, and self-onboarding
- ✓Strong benefits administration including health, dental, and 401k
Cons
- ✗International payroll is limited and requires third-party tools
- ✗Can get expensive as headcount grows beyond 50 employees
- ✗Reporting and analytics are basic compared to enterprise tools
Copper vs Gusto: Side by Side
| Factor | Copper | Gusto |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | 4.6/5 ★ |
| Category | CRM Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $9/user/mo | $40/mo + $6/employee |
| Best For | Teams that run their business on Google Workspace | Small businesses under 100 employees |
| Our Pick | — | 🏆 Recommended |
Copper Features
- ✓Google Workspace integration
- ✓automatic data capture
- ✓contact and lead management
- ✓pipeline management
- ✓email tracking
- ✓reporting
- ✓workflow automation
Gusto Features
- ✓Payroll automation
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓onboarding
- ✓time tracking
- ✓compliance
Pricing Comparison
Gusto
PaidStarts at $40/mo + $6/employee
Simple: $40/mo + $6/employee · Plus: $80/mo + $12/employee · Premium: $180/mo + $22/employee
See full pricing →Best Use Cases
Gusto
- →US small businesses running payroll for the first time
- →Startups wanting automated tax filing
- →Companies needing combined payroll and benefits administration
Who Should NOT Use These Tools
Gusto is NOT ideal for:
- ✗Companies with international employees
- ✗Large enterprises needing complex payroll rules
- ✗Businesses outside the United States
Integrations
Gusto
QuickBooks, Xero, FreshBooks, Clover, When I Work, Deputy, BambooHR, Greenhouse
Our Take
Choose Copper if teams that run their business on google workspace. Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees.
Best For
Teams that run their business on Google Workspace
Best For
Small businesses under 100 employees
Also Consider
If neither Copper nor Gusto is the right fit, Monday.com CRM is worth evaluating.
Monday.com CRM
Teams that want CRM and project management combined in one visual platform
From $12/user/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Copper and Gusto?
Copper is best for teams that run their business on google workspace. Gusto is best for small businesses under 100 employees.
Which is better, Copper or Gusto?
Choose Copper if teams that run their business on google workspace. Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees.
How much does Copper cost?
Copper starts at $9/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Gusto cost?
Gusto starts at $40/mo + $6/employee. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Copper?
Teams that run their business on Google Workspace
Who should use Gusto?
Small businesses under 100 employees