Gusto vs Todoist
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.
Todoist
Todoist is a clean and intuitive task management app trusted by millions of individuals and teams. It focuses on simplicity and getting things done with natural language input and smart scheduling.
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
- ✓Extremely easy to use
- ✓Natural language task input
- ✓Cross-platform availability
- ✓Good collaboration for small teams
- ✓Generous free plan
Cons
- ✗Not suited for complex project management
- ✗Limited reporting and analytics
- ✗Gantt and timeline views absent
- ✗Better for individuals than large teams
Gusto vs Todoist: Side by Side
| Factor | Gusto | Todoist |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Project Management |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Starting Price | $40/mo + $6/person | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits | Individuals and small teams wanting a simple, clean task manager without the complexity of full project tools |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Gusto Features
- ✓Full-service payroll
- ✓automatic tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee benefits
- ✓onboarding
- ✓PTO tracking
- ✓time tracking
- ✓contractor payments
Todoist Features
- ✓Task management
- ✓project organization
- ✓due dates
- ✓priority levels
- ✓labels
- ✓integrations
- ✓mobile app
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. Choose Todoist if individuals and small teams wanting a simple, clean task manager without the complexity of full project tools.
Best For
Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits
Best For
Individuals and small teams wanting a simple, clean task manager without the complexity of full project tools
Also Consider
If neither Gusto nor Todoist 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 Todoist?
Gusto is best for small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. Todoist is best for individuals and small teams wanting a simple, clean task manager without the complexity of full project tools.
Which is better, Gusto or Todoist?
Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits. Choose Todoist if individuals and small teams wanting a simple, clean task manager without the complexity of full project tools.
How much does Gusto cost?
Gusto starts at $40/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Todoist cost?
Visit Todoist website for current pricing.
Who should use Gusto?
Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits
Who should use Todoist?
Individuals and small teams wanting a simple, clean task manager without the complexity of full project tools