Gusto vs Digits
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Gusto
Gusto is a full-service payroll platform built for small businesses in the US. 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 payroll for the first time.
Digits
Digits is a modern financial intelligence platform for small businesses that connects to your accounts and uses AI to surface insights, trends, and anomalies in your finances automatically.
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 and e-signatures
- ✓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
Pros
- ✓AI-powered financial insights
- ✓Clean modern interface
- ✓Automatic anomaly detection
- ✓Good cash flow visibility
- ✓Integrates with existing accounting tools
Cons
- ✗Not a full accounting replacement
- ✗US-focused
- ✗Still a newer platform
- ✗Limited tax filing features
- ✗Best as a complement to existing accounting software
Gusto vs Digits: Side by Side
| Factor | Gusto | Digits |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Accounting Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $40/mo + $6/person | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits | Small business owners wanting AI-powered financial insights and visibility on top of their existing accounting software |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Gusto Features
- ✓Full-service payroll
- ✓automatic tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee benefits
- ✓onboarding
- ✓PTO tracking
- ✓time tracking
- ✓contractor payments
Digits Features
- ✓AI bookkeeping
- ✓transaction categorization
- ✓cash flow insights
- ✓financial reporting
- ✓bank feed integration
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. Choose Digits if small business owners wanting ai-powered financial insights and visibility on top of their existing accounting software.
Best For
Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits
Best For
Small business owners wanting AI-powered financial insights and visibility on top of their existing accounting software
Also Consider
If neither Gusto nor Digits is the right fit, Multiplier is worth evaluating.
Multiplier
Startups and SMBs hiring internationally on a budget
From $40/contractor/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Gusto and Digits?
Gusto is best for small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. Digits is best for small business owners wanting ai-powered financial insights and visibility on top of their existing accounting software.
Which is better, Gusto or Digits?
Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. Choose Digits if small business owners wanting ai-powered financial insights and visibility on top of their existing accounting software.
How much does Gusto cost?
Gusto starts at $40/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Digits cost?
Visit Digits website for current pricing.
Who should use Gusto?
Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits
Who should use Digits?
Small business owners wanting AI-powered financial insights and visibility on top of their existing accounting software