VS
Gusto vs Oyster — Which One Wins?
A detailed, side-by-side comparison of Gusto and Oyster 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. Oyster (4.1) is the better pick if you need distributed-first companies hiring globally.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | Gusto | Oyster |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★★★★ 4.4(198) | ★★★★ 4.1(67) |
| Pricing Model | subscription | subscription |
| Starter Price | $40/mo + $6/person | $29/contractor/mo |
| Free Tier | No | Yes |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android | Web |
| Learning Curve | Easy | Easy |
| API Available | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Small businesses under 100 employees needing payroll | Distributed-first companies hiring globally |
| Verdict | Best Payroll for SMB | Best UX for Global HR |
Feature Checklist
| Feature | Gusto | Oyster |
|---|---|---|
| Payroll | — | |
| Benefits Admin | — | |
| Tax Filing | — | |
| Time Tracking | — | |
| Onboarding | — | |
| Global Hiring | — | |
| EOR | — | |
| Benefits | — | |
| Equity Management | — | |
| Time-Off Tracking | — |
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
Oyster
Pros
- ✓Beautiful user experience
- ✓Great equity management
- ✓Strong total rewards visibility
Cons
- ✕Newer player with less track record
- ✕Fewer countries than Deel
- ✕Benefits options vary by country
The Bottom Line
Both Gusto and Oyster are solid tools in the HR & Recruiting space. Gusto edges ahead with a stronger overall rating (4.4 vs 4.1) and is the better choice for small businesses under 100 employees needing payroll. However, if you prioritize distributed-first companies hiring globally, Oyster is worth serious consideration. We recommend trying the free tier or trial of each before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gusto better than Oyster?▼
Gusto scores higher overall with a 4.4 rating vs 4.1. However, the best choice depends on your specific needs. Gusto is best for Small businesses under 100 employees needing payroll, while Oyster is best for Distributed-first companies hiring globally.
Can I switch from Gusto to Oyster?▼
Yes, most users can migrate between the two. Oyster offers a free tier to test before committing.
Which is more affordable, Gusto or Oyster?▼
Gusto starts at $40/mo + $6/person, while Oyster starts at $29/contractor/mo. Oyster offers a free tier.