Workable vs Gusto
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Gusto is our recommended pick for most teams — small businesses under 100 employees.
Try Gusto →Read our full Gusto review →Workable
Workable is an all-in-one recruiting software platform designed for small and mid-size businesses. It includes job posting, candidate sourcing with AI, interview scheduling, and offer management. Workable is known for its ease of use and quick setup, making it a popular first ATS for growing companies.
Gusto
Gusto is a full-service HR and payroll platform built for small businesses. 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 HR for the first time.
Pros
- ✓Easy to set up and use with minimal training required
- ✓AI-powered candidate sourcing from 400+ job boards
- ✓Good mobile app for on-the-go hiring
- ✓Affordable pricing compared to enterprise ATS tools
Cons
- ✗Limited customization for complex hiring workflows
- ✗Reporting and analytics are basic
- ✗Not ideal for high-volume enterprise hiring at scale
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, e-signatures, and self-onboarding
- ✓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
Workable vs Gusto: Side by Side
| Factor | Workable | Gusto |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | 4.6/5 ★ |
| Category | Applicant Tracking | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $189/mo | $40/mo + $6/employee |
| Best For | Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS | Small businesses under 100 employees |
| Our Pick | — | 🏆 Recommended |
Workable Features
- ✓Job postings
- ✓candidate sourcing
- ✓interview scheduling
- ✓offer letters
- ✓reporting
Gusto Features
- ✓Payroll automation
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓onboarding
- ✓time tracking
- ✓compliance
Pricing Comparison
Gusto
PaidStarts at $40/mo + $6/employee
Simple: $40/mo + $6/employee · Plus: $80/mo + $12/employee · Premium: $180/mo + $22/employee
See full pricing →Best Use Cases
Gusto
- →US small businesses running payroll for the first time
- →Startups wanting automated tax filing
- →Companies needing combined payroll and benefits administration
Who Should NOT Use These Tools
Gusto is NOT ideal for:
- ✗Companies with international employees
- ✗Large enterprises needing complex payroll rules
- ✗Businesses outside the United States
Integrations
Gusto
QuickBooks, Xero, FreshBooks, Clover, When I Work, Deputy, BambooHR, Greenhouse
Our Take
Choose Workable if small to mid-size companies needing simple ats. Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees.
Best For
Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS
Best For
Small businesses under 100 employees
Also Consider
If neither Workable nor Gusto is the right fit, Manatal is worth evaluating.
Manatal
Recruitment agencies and budget-conscious companies wanting AI-powered ATS at an affordable price
From $15/user/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Workable and Gusto?
Workable is best for small to mid-size companies needing simple ats. Gusto is best for small businesses under 100 employees.
Which is better, Workable or Gusto?
Choose Workable if small to mid-size companies needing simple ats. Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees.
How much does Workable cost?
Workable starts at $189/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Gusto cost?
Gusto starts at $40/mo + $6/employee. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Workable?
Small to mid-size companies needing simple ATS
Who should use Gusto?
Small businesses under 100 employees