VS
15Five vs Gusto — Which One Wins?
A detailed, side-by-side comparison of 15Five and Gusto to help you pick the right tool for your workflow.
TLDR
Quick Verdict
Gusto takes the lead with a 4.4 rating and is best for small businesses under 100 employees needing payroll. 15Five (4.2) is the better pick if you need companies wanting continuous feedback over annual reviews.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | 15Five | Gusto |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★★★★ 4.2(93) | ★★★★ 4.4(198) |
| Pricing Model | subscription | subscription |
| Starter Price | $4/person/mo | $40/mo + $6/person |
| Free Tier | No | No |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android | Web, iOS, Android |
| Learning Curve | Easy | Easy |
| API Available | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Companies wanting continuous feedback over annual reviews | Small businesses under 100 employees needing payroll |
| Verdict | Best Continuous Feedback | Best Payroll for SMB |
Feature Checklist
| Feature | 15Five | Gusto |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly Check-ins | — | |
| Performance Reviews | — | |
| Engagement Surveys | — | |
| OKRs | — | |
| Manager Coaching | — | |
| Payroll | — | |
| Benefits Admin | — | |
| Tax Filing | — | |
| Time Tracking | — | |
| Onboarding | — |
15Five
Pros
- ✓Excellent weekly check-in workflow
- ✓Strong coaching tools for managers
- ✓Very affordable starter plan
Cons
- ✕Not a full HRIS
- ✕Less robust than Lattice for complex orgs
- ✕Reporting could be deeper
Gusto
Pros
- ✓Painless automated payroll
- ✓Excellent tax compliance
- ✓Clean simple interface
Cons
- ✕US-only payroll
- ✕Gets expensive as you grow
- ✕HR features are basic compared to BambooHR
The Bottom Line
Both 15Five and Gusto are solid tools in the HR & Recruiting space. Gusto edges ahead with a stronger overall rating (4.4 vs 4.2) and is the better choice for small businesses under 100 employees needing payroll. However, if you prioritize companies wanting continuous feedback over annual reviews, 15Five is worth serious consideration. We recommend trying the free tier or trial of each before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 15Five better than Gusto?▼
Gusto scores higher overall with a 4.4 rating vs 4.2. However, the best choice depends on your specific needs. 15Five is best for Companies wanting continuous feedback over annual reviews, while Gusto is best for Small businesses under 100 employees needing payroll.
Can I switch from 15Five to Gusto?▼
Yes, most users can migrate between the two. Gusto offers trial options to help you evaluate the switch.
Which is more affordable, 15Five or Gusto?▼
15Five starts at $4/person/mo, while Gusto starts at $40/mo + $6/person.