Gusto vs isolved
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.
isolved
isolved is an all-in-one HCM platform offering payroll, HR, benefits, and time tracking for small to mid-sized businesses. It is delivered through a network of local service partners providing personalized support.
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
- ✓Strong local service partner network
- ✓Good all-in-one HCM features
- ✓Solid compliance tools
- ✓Flexible configuration
- ✓Good for SMBs needing hands-on support
Cons
- ✗Interface feels dated
- ✗Quality can vary by service partner
- ✗Less self-serve than modern platforms
- ✗Reporting needs improvement
Gusto vs isolved: Side by Side
| Factor | Gusto | isolved |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Payroll 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 | SMBs wanting full-service payroll and HR support through a local service partner network |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Gusto Features
- ✓Full-service payroll
- ✓automatic tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee benefits
- ✓onboarding
- ✓PTO tracking
- ✓time tracking
- ✓contractor payments
isolved Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓HR management
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓time tracking
- ✓talent management
- ✓compliance
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. Choose isolved if smbs wanting full-service payroll and hr support through a local service partner network.
Best For
Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits
Best For
SMBs wanting full-service payroll and HR support through a local service partner network
How Gusto and isolved Are Similar
- •Both are Payroll Software platforms designed for business teams
- •Both offer web-based access with no software installation required
- •Both provide customer support and onboarding resources
- •Both integrate with popular third-party business tools
- •Both offer a trial or demo to evaluate before purchasing
Also Consider
If neither Gusto nor isolved 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 isolved?
Gusto is best for small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. isolved is best for smbs wanting full-service payroll and hr support through a local service partner network.
Which is better, Gusto or isolved?
Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. Choose isolved if smbs wanting full-service payroll and hr support through a local service partner network.
How much does Gusto cost?
Gusto starts at $40/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does isolved cost?
Visit isolved website for current pricing.
Who should use Gusto?
Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits
Who should use isolved?
SMBs wanting full-service payroll and HR support through a local service partner network