VS
Bench vs Gusto Payroll — Which One Wins?
A detailed, side-by-side comparison of Bench and Gusto Payroll to help you pick the right tool for your workflow.
TLDR
Quick Verdict
Gusto Payroll takes the lead with a 4.6 rating and is best for small businesses with 1-100 employees. Bench (4.1) is the better pick if you need small business owners who hate doing books.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | Bench | Gusto Payroll |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★★★★ 4.1(88) | ★★★★★ 4.6(220) |
| Pricing Model | subscription | subscription |
| Starter Price | $249/mo | $40/mo + $6/person/mo |
| Free Tier | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android | Web, iOS, Android |
| Learning Curve | Easy | Easy |
| API Available | No | Yes |
| Best For | Small business owners who hate doing books | Small businesses with 1-100 employees |
| Verdict | Best Done-For-You Bookkeeping | Best Small Business Payroll |
Feature Checklist
| Feature | Bench | Gusto Payroll |
|---|---|---|
| Dedicated Bookkeeper | — | |
| Tax Filing | ||
| Financial Reports | — | |
| Year-End Packages | — | |
| Catch-Up Bookkeeping | — | |
| Payroll | — | |
| Benefits Admin | — | |
| Time Tracking | — | |
| HR Tools | — |
Bench
Pros
- ✓Real humans do your books
- ✓Clean monthly financials
- ✓Tax filing included in higher tiers
Cons
- ✕Not real-time — monthly updates
- ✕Limited customization
- ✕Expensive vs DIY tools
Gusto Payroll
Pros
- ✓Incredibly easy to use
- ✓Automatic tax filings
- ✓Great employee self-service portal
Cons
- ✕Gets expensive as team grows
- ✕Limited international payroll
- ✕Benefits only in US
The Bottom Line
Both Bench and Gusto Payroll are solid tools in the Accounting & Finance space. Gusto Payroll edges ahead with a stronger overall rating (4.6 vs 4.1) and is the better choice for small businesses with 1-100 employees. However, if you prioritize small business owners who hate doing books, Bench is worth serious consideration. We recommend trying the free tier or trial of each before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bench better than Gusto Payroll?▼
Gusto Payroll scores higher overall with a 4.6 rating vs 4.1. However, the best choice depends on your specific needs. Bench is best for Small business owners who hate doing books, while Gusto Payroll is best for Small businesses with 1-100 employees.
Can I switch from Bench to Gusto Payroll?▼
Yes, most users can migrate between the two. Gusto Payroll offers a free tier to test before committing.
Which is more affordable, Bench or Gusto Payroll?▼
Bench starts at $249/mo, while Gusto Payroll starts at $40/mo + $6/person/mo. Bench offers a free tier. Gusto Payroll offers a free tier.