VS
Gusto Payroll vs Pilot — Which One Wins?
A detailed, side-by-side comparison of Gusto Payroll and Pilot 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. Pilot (4.0) is the better pick if you need vc-backed startups needing professional bookkeeping.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | Gusto Payroll | Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★★★★★ 4.6(220) | ★★★★ 4.0(72) |
| Pricing Model | subscription | subscription |
| Starter Price | $40/mo + $6/person/mo | $599/mo (bookkeeping) |
| Free Tier | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android | Web |
| Learning Curve | Easy | Easy |
| API Available | Yes | No |
| Best For | Small businesses with 1-100 employees | VC-backed startups needing professional bookkeeping |
| Verdict | Best Small Business Payroll | Best for Startups |
Feature Checklist
| Feature | Gusto Payroll | Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Payroll | — | |
| Benefits Admin | — | |
| Tax Filing | — | |
| Time Tracking | — | |
| HR Tools | — | |
| Expert Bookkeeping | — | |
| Tax Prep | — | |
| Fractional CFO | — | |
| R&D Tax Credits | — | |
| Investor-Ready Reports | — |
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
Pilot
Pros
- ✓Understands startup accounting
- ✓R&D tax credit expertise
- ✓Investor-ready reports
Cons
- ✕Very expensive
- ✕Overkill for simple businesses
- ✕Long onboarding process
The Bottom Line
Both Gusto Payroll and Pilot are solid tools in the Accounting & Finance space. Gusto Payroll edges ahead with a stronger overall rating (4.6 vs 4.0) and is the better choice for small businesses with 1-100 employees. However, if you prioritize vc-backed startups needing professional bookkeeping, Pilot is worth serious consideration. We recommend trying the free tier or trial of each before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gusto Payroll better than Pilot?▼
Gusto Payroll scores higher overall with a 4.6 rating vs 4.0. However, the best choice depends on your specific needs. Gusto Payroll is best for Small businesses with 1-100 employees, while Pilot is best for VC-backed startups needing professional bookkeeping.
Can I switch from Gusto Payroll to Pilot?▼
Yes, most users can migrate between the two. Pilot offers a free tier to test before committing.
Which is more affordable, Gusto Payroll or Pilot?▼
Gusto Payroll starts at $40/mo + $6/person/mo, while Pilot starts at $599/mo (bookkeeping). Gusto Payroll offers a free tier. Pilot offers a free tier.