BambooHR vs Gusto
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both BambooHR and Gusto are credible hr tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose BambooHR if you want a longer free trial (7 days). HR software for small and medium business.
Choose Gusto if you'd rather have a lower starting price (from $40/mo). Payroll, benefits, and HR for small business.
BambooHR vs Gusto: side by side
| Dimension | BambooHR | Gusto |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Custom | From $40/moWinner |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | 7 daysWinner | — |
| Pricing model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Best for | Smb | Smb, Startups |
| Platforms | Web, Ios, Android | Web, Ios, Android |
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.6/5 |
BambooHR key facts
- Vendor
- BambooHR
- Pricing
- Subscription — Custom
- Free tier
- Free trial (7 days)
- Platforms
- Web, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Smb
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 2008
- Headquarters
- Lindon, UT, USA
Gusto key facts
- Vendor
- Gusto
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $40/mo
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Web, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Smb, Startups
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2011
- Headquarters
- San Francisco, CA, USA
Frequently asked questions
Is BambooHR better than Gusto?
Neither is universally better — Gusto edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is BambooHR or Gusto cheaper?
Gusto is the more affordable of the two to get started, at from $40/mo. BambooHR starts at custom; Gusto starts at from $40/mo.
Can BambooHR replace Gusto?
Yes for most teams — both are hr tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.