Gusto vs SmartHR: Which Payroll Software Is Better in 2026?
Compare pricing, features, integrations, verified reviews, AI capabilities, security, and customer satisfaction, side by side, with no marketing spin.
The Short Answer
Gusto vs SmartHR, in 15 seconds
Choose Gusto if…
- You depend on a broad integration ecosystem
- You want deeper AI and automation features
- You need the broader feature set
Choose SmartHR if…
- You want the lower entry price
- You need a genuinely free plan
Head-to-Head Scorecard
How Gusto and SmartHR score
It's evenly matched, each leads on 3 of 9 measured dimensions.
- Even
Customer Rating
Average score from verified user reviews
GustoNo reviewsSmartHRNo reviews - Even
Review Volume
Number of verified reviews, a proxy for adoption
Gusto0SmartHR0 - SmartHR
Entry Pricing
Lowest published starting price (free plan = lowest)
Gusto$49/moSmartHRFree - SmartHR
Free Access
Availability of a free plan and/or free trial
GustoFree trialSmartHRFree plan + trial - Gusto
Integrations
Number of listed third-party integrations
Gusto8SmartHR6 - Gusto
Features
Number of listed product capabilities
Gusto11SmartHR6 - Gusto
AI Features
Capabilities mentioning AI, automation or ML
Gusto1SmartHR, - Even
Security & Compliance
Number of listed compliance certifications
Gusto2SmartHR2 - SmartHR
Platforms & Deployment
Supported platforms and deployment options
Gusto4SmartHR5
Feature Comparison
Gusto vs SmartHR feature breakdown
Search or filter the full feature matrix, core features, AI, integrations, APIs, security and compliance.
Gusto
SmartHRPricing Comparison
Gusto vs SmartHR pricing
Entry pricing, plan tiers and the cost factors that shape total cost of ownership.
Gusto
$49/mo to start- Full-service single-state payroll
- Automatic tax filing
- Employee self-service
- Basic hiring & onboarding
- Multi-state payroll
- Next-day direct deposit
- Time tracking & PTO
- Project tracking
- Priority support & HR resources
- Compliance alerts
- Dedicated support
- Advanced integrations
- Unlimited contractor payments
- 1099 filings
- No monthly base (contractor-only)
- Self-service for contractors
SmartHR
Free to start- Up to 30 employees
- HR data management
- Basic labor procedures
- Employee self-service
- Social insurance filing
- Labor procedures
- Payroll workflows
- Scales by employees
- Talent management
- Analytics
- Add-ons
- Advanced features
Total cost of ownership factors
Beyond list price, factor in implementation, training, add-ons and per-seat scaling when estimating total cost of ownership.
Pros & Cons
Gusto vs SmartHR: strengths and trade-offs
Gusto
Pros
- Free trial offered
- Broad integration ecosystem (8)
- Compliance: SOC 2 Type II, GDPR
- Stronger AI / automation features
- Public API available
Cons
- No free plan
SmartHR
Pros
- Free plan available
- Free trial offered
- Compliance: APPI, ISO 27001
- Public API available
Cons
- Fewer native integrations than the alternative
Buyer Fit
Who should use Gusto vs SmartHR?
Startups
SmartHR
SmartHR keeps early-stage costs lowest with its entry tier.
Small businesses
SmartHR
SmartHR offers the most accessible pricing for lean teams.
Agencies
Gusto
Gusto connects to more tools for multi-client workflows.
Enterprises
Gusto
Gusto leads on compliance and breadth for complex needs.
Ecommerce
Gusto
Gusto integrates with more of the commerce stack.
SaaS companies
Gusto
Gusto is the more developer- and automation-friendly choice.
Integration overlap
Only in Gusto (8)
Only in SmartHR (6)
Keep Exploring
Other alternatives worth considering
Similar payroll software products buyers compare alongside Gusto and SmartHR.
Ask SIA which solution fits your business
SIA, Saaskart's AI buying assistant, weighs Gusto and SmartHR against your team size, budget, integrations and compliance needs, then recommends the right fit and the questions to ask each vendor.
Get a personalised recommendationGusto vs SmartHR, Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Gusto and SmartHR?
Gusto and SmartHR are both Payroll Software solutions. Gusto is rated 0.0/5 by 0 users, while SmartHR is rated 0.0/5 by 0 users. The main differences lie in pricing, features, and target audience.
Which is better, Gusto or SmartHR?
Based on user ratings, Gusto scores higher at 0.0/5. The best choice depends on your team size, budget, and specific requirements.
Which is cheaper, Gusto or SmartHR?
SmartHR is the more affordable option with a free plan available.
Does Gusto or SmartHR have a free plan?
SmartHR offers a free plan. Gusto does not have a free tier but does offer a free trial.
Can I switch from Gusto to SmartHR?
Switching between Gusto and SmartHR is possible. Both support data export. Check integration compatibility and plan for data migration to minimise disruption to your team.
Who should use Gusto vs SmartHR?
Gusto is best suited for teams that prioritise enterprise features. SmartHR works well for teams looking to start free and scale.
Our Verdict
The bottom line on Gusto vs SmartHR
Best Overall
Either
It's a tie balances user satisfaction and proven adoption.
Best for Startups
SmartHR
SmartHR has the friendliest entry point for new teams.
Best for Enterprise
Gusto
Gusto leads on compliance and feature breadth.
Best Value
SmartHR
SmartHR delivers the lowest cost to get started.
Best AI Features
Gusto
Gusto ships more AI and automation.
Highest Rated
Either
Both earn equal user ratings.