Gusto vs Leapsome
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.
Leapsome
Leapsome is an intelligent people enablement platform that combines performance management, learning, and employee engagement in one system. It helps HR teams run effective performance reviews, deliver personalized learning paths, and measure engagement with powerful analytics. Leapsome is used by companies like Spotify and Eventbrite.
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
- ✓Highly customizable performance review and feedback cycles
- ✓Strong learning management system with personalized development paths
- ✓Powerful engagement surveys with advanced analytics
- ✓Integrates well with HRIS tools like BambooHR and Workday
Cons
- ✗Expensive for smaller companies, especially with multiple modules
- ✗Complex initial setup and configuration
- ✗No payroll or core HRIS functionality
Gusto vs Leapsome: Side by Side
| Factor | Gusto | Leapsome |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $40/mo + $6/person | Custom pricing |
| Best For | Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits | Mid to large companies investing in people development |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Gusto Features
- ✓Full-service payroll
- ✓automatic tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee benefits
- ✓onboarding
- ✓PTO tracking
- ✓time tracking
- ✓contractor payments
Leapsome Features
- ✓Performance reviews
- ✓OKRs
- ✓learning management
- ✓engagement surveys
- ✓compensation
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. Choose Leapsome if mid to large companies investing in people development.
Best For
Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits
Best For
Mid to large companies investing in people development
Also Consider
If neither Gusto nor Leapsome 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 Leapsome?
Gusto is best for small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. Leapsome is best for mid to large companies investing in people development.
Which is better, Gusto or Leapsome?
Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. Choose Leapsome if mid to large companies investing in people development.
How much does Gusto cost?
Gusto starts at $40/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Leapsome cost?
Leapsome starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Gusto?
Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits
Who should use Leapsome?
Mid to large companies investing in people development