Zenefits (now TriNet) vs Gusto
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Zenefits (now TriNet)
Zenefits was a cloud-based HR platform for small and mid-size businesses. In 2022, Zenefits was acquired by TriNet, one of the largest PEO providers in the US. The Zenefits platform has been integrated into TriNet's product suite. Businesses previously using Zenefits are now served under the TriNet brand.
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
- ✓Strong benefits administration with a wide carrier network
- ✓Easy employee self-service for benefits enrollment and changes
- ✓Affordable base pricing for small teams
- ✓Good compliance tools for ACA and other regulations
Cons
- ✗Payroll processing costs extra as an add-on
- ✗Customer support quality has been inconsistent historically
- ✗Less suitable for companies that need advanced HR or payroll features
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
Zenefits (now TriNet) vs Gusto: Side by Side
| Factor | Zenefits (now TriNet) | Gusto |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | HR Software | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $8/employee/mo | $40/mo + $6/person |
| Best For | Small businesses focused on benefits administration | Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Zenefits (now TriNet) Features
- ✓Benefits administration
- ✓payroll
- ✓time tracking
- ✓compliance
- ✓onboarding
Gusto Features
- ✓Full-service payroll
- ✓automatic tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee benefits
- ✓onboarding
- ✓PTO tracking
- ✓time tracking
- ✓contractor payments
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits.
Best For
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Best For
Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits
Also Consider
If neither Zenefits (now TriNet) nor Gusto is the right fit, Justworks is worth evaluating.
Justworks
Small businesses wanting Fortune 500 benefits
From $59/employee/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Zenefits (now TriNet) and Gusto?
Zenefits (now TriNet) is best for small businesses focused on benefits administration. Gusto is best for small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits.
Which is better, Zenefits (now TriNet) or Gusto?
Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits.
How much does Zenefits (now TriNet) cost?
Zenefits (now TriNet) starts at $8/employee/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Gusto cost?
Gusto starts at $40/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Who should use Gusto?
Small businesses under 100 employees wanting full-service payroll with benefits