Gusto vs Pipedrive
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Pipedrive is our recommended pick for most teams — small to mid-size sales teams focused on pipeline management.
Try Pipedrive →Read our full Pipedrive review →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.
Pipedrive
Pipedrive is a sales-focused CRM designed to help small and mid-size sales teams manage their pipelines and close more deals. It features a visual deal pipeline interface that makes it easy to track where every deal stands. Pipedrive is loved by sales teams for its simplicity and focus on driving sales activity.
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
- ✓Intuitive visual pipeline that sales teams love
- ✓Easy to set up with minimal training required
- ✓Strong mobile app for on-the-go sales
- ✓Affordable pricing with good value at entry level
Cons
- ✗Limited marketing automation compared to HubSpot
- ✗Reporting is basic on lower tiers
- ✗Not ideal for teams that need strong customer service tools
Gusto vs Pipedrive: Side by Side
| Factor | Gusto | Pipedrive |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | 4.5/5 ★ |
| Category | Payroll Software | CRM Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $40/mo + $6/person | $14/user/mo |
| Best For | Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits | Small to mid-size sales teams focused on pipeline management |
| Our Pick | — | 🏆 Recommended |
Gusto Features
- ✓Full-service payroll
- ✓automatic tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee benefits
- ✓onboarding
- ✓PTO tracking
- ✓time tracking
- ✓contractor payments
Pipedrive Features
- ✓Visual deal pipeline
- ✓contact management
- ✓email integration
- ✓activity reminders
- ✓reporting
- ✓workflow automation
- ✓mobile app
- ✓AI sales assistant
Pricing Comparison
Pipedrive
PaidStarts at $14/user/mo
Essential: $14/user/mo · Advanced: $34/user/mo · Professional: $49/user/mo · Power: $64/user/mo
See full pricing →Best Use Cases
Pipedrive
- →Sales teams wanting a visual pipeline-focused CRM
- →SMBs tracking deals from lead to close
- →Companies wanting a CRM that sales reps will actually use
Who Should NOT Use These Tools
Pipedrive is NOT ideal for:
- ✗Companies needing full marketing automation built in
- ✗Teams requiring complex territory management
- ✗Businesses needing a free CRM option
Integrations
Pipedrive
Gmail, Outlook, Slack, Zoom, QuickBooks, Xero, Zapier, HubSpot, Mailchimp, Trello
Our Take
Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. Choose Pipedrive if small to mid-size sales teams focused on pipeline management.
Best For
Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits
Best For
Small to mid-size sales teams focused on pipeline management
Also Consider
If neither Gusto nor Pipedrive 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 Pipedrive?
Gusto is best for small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. Pipedrive is best for small to mid-size sales teams focused on pipeline management.
Which is better, Gusto or Pipedrive?
Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. Choose Pipedrive if small to mid-size sales teams focused on pipeline management.
How much does Gusto cost?
Gusto starts at $40/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Pipedrive cost?
Pipedrive starts at $14/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Gusto?
Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits
Who should use Pipedrive?
Small to mid-size sales teams focused on pipeline management