Gusto Payroll vs Wise — Which One Wins?
A detailed, side-by-side comparison of Gusto Payroll and Wise to help you pick the right tool for your workflow.
Quick Verdict
Gusto Payroll takes the lead with a 4.6 rating and is best for small businesses with 1-100 employees. Wise (4.5) is the better pick if you need businesses and individuals making international transfers who want fair exchange rates..
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | Gusto Payroll | Wise |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★★★★★ 4.6(220) | ★★★★ 4.5(345) |
| Pricing Model | subscription | freemium |
| Starter Price | $40/mo + $6/person/mo | Per-transfer fees (varies by currency) |
| Free Tier | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android | web, ios, android |
| Learning Curve | Easy | easy |
| API Available | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Small businesses with 1-100 employees | Businesses and individuals making international transfers who want fair exchange rates. |
| Verdict | Best Small Business Payroll | recommended |
Feature Checklist
| Feature | Gusto Payroll | Wise |
|---|---|---|
| Payroll | — | |
| Benefits Admin | — | |
| Tax Filing | — | |
| Time Tracking | — | |
| HR Tools | — | |
| Real mid-market exchange rate | — | |
| Multi-currency account (40+ currencies) | — | |
| Local bank details in multiple countries | — | |
| Batch payments | — | |
| Business debit card | — | |
| Accounting integrations | — |
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
Wise
Pros
- ✓Real mid-market exchange rate with no hidden markups
- ✓Multi-currency account holds 40+ currencies
- ✓Transparent upfront fees — no surprises
Cons
- ✕Not a full business bank account — limited to transfers and holding
- ✕Transfer speeds vary by currency pair and method
- ✕Not useful for domestic-only businesses
The Bottom Line
Both Gusto Payroll and Wise are solid tools in the Accounting & Finance space. Gusto Payroll edges ahead with a stronger overall rating (4.6 vs 4.5) and is the better choice for small businesses with 1-100 employees. However, if you prioritize businesses and individuals making international transfers who want fair exchange rates., Wise is worth serious consideration. We recommend trying the free tier or trial of each before committing.