Gusto vs ADP Run
Side-by-side from the Top 11 ranking of The 11 Best Payroll Software for SMBs (2026). Last verified May 31, 2026.
The short answer
Gusto ranks higher on Top 11 (#1 vs #5) for Small business owners running payroll without in-house HR. The easiest-to-use platform for all-in-one payroll, benefits, and HR, perfect for business owners without HR staff.
At a glance
| Gusto | ADP Run | |
|---|---|---|
| Top 11 rank | #1 / The 11 Best Payroll Software for SMBs (2026) | #5 / The 11 Best Payroll Software for SMBs (2026) |
| Score (out of 9.4) | 9.3 | 8.4 |
| Best for | Overall ease of use | Reliability and scalability |
| Pricing | $$ ($46 to $150+/mo) | $$$ (Varies by quote) |
| HQ | San Francisco, USA | Roseland, USA |
| Founded | 2011 | 1949 |
Gusto
The easiest-to-use platform for all-in-one payroll, benefits, and HR, perfect for business owners without HR staff.
gusto.comSee full entry in The 11 Best Payroll Software for SMBs (2026)
ADP Run
The SMB solution from an industry giant, offering unmatched reliability, compliance, and scalability.
www.adp.com/what-we-offer/by-business-size/small-business.aspxSee full entry in The 11 Best Payroll Software for SMBs (2026)
Methodology and scoring weights live at /methodology. No vendor pays for placement — see about.