Microsoft Project vs Gusto
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Microsoft Project
Microsoft Project is the long-standing enterprise project management standard offering advanced scheduling, resource management, and portfolio tracking. Deep integration with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.
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.
Pros
- ✓Industry standard for complex project scheduling
- ✓Powerful Gantt and resource management
- ✓Deep Microsoft 365 integration
- ✓Strong portfolio management
- ✓Trusted by enterprises globally
Cons
- ✗Steep learning curve
- ✗Expensive licensing
- ✗Feels dated compared to modern tools
- ✗Overkill for simple projects
- ✗Limited real-time collaboration
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
Microsoft Project vs Gusto: Side by Side
| Factor | Microsoft Project | Gusto |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Project Management | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | $40/mo + $6/person |
| Best For | Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration | Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Microsoft Project Features
- ✓Project scheduling
- ✓Gantt charts
- ✓resource management
- ✓task tracking
- ✓portfolio management
- ✓reporting
Gusto Features
- ✓Full-service payroll
- ✓automatic tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee benefits
- ✓onboarding
- ✓PTO tracking
- ✓time tracking
- ✓contractor payments
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits.
Best For
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration
Best For
Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits
Also Consider
If neither Microsoft Project nor Gusto is the right fit, Wrike is worth evaluating.
Wrike
Marketing and creative teams needing enterprise project management with approvals and proofing
From Free
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Microsoft Project and Gusto?
Microsoft Project is best for enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. Gusto is best for small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits.
Which is better, Microsoft Project or Gusto?
Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits.
How much does Microsoft Project cost?
Visit Microsoft Project website for current pricing.
How much does Gusto cost?
Gusto starts at $40/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Microsoft Project?
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration
Who should use Gusto?
Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits