Rippling vs Gusto: Which Is The Top Pick in 2025?

One key drawback of Rippling is the complex process involved in payroll setup, which can be a hassle for new users. On the other hand, Gusto has faced criticism for its handling of state tax filings, leading to incorrect tax returns and a lack of proactive communication.

Rho could offer a more efficient solution for businesses by combining AP automation and banking products with advanced software to streamline financial management.

Many businesses look to Rippling and Gusto for their payroll and HR needs. However, choosing the right solution can be a complex task.

In this article, we’ll review what each solution offers and how they compare, helping you make an informed decision. Additionally, we'll also explore Rho as a third option worth considering.

Rippling Overview

Rippling is a workforce management system that integrates HR, IT, and finance functionalities. It aims to streamline operations by managing payroll, HR, IT, and spend in one place. This solution is designed for a wide range of industries and company sizes, from startups to enterprises, including sectors like healthcare, retail, and technology.

Rippling Features

Some of the key features of Rippling include:

HCM: Manage day-to-day HR operations at scale and drive strategic outcomes across the business.
Payroll: Pay employees and contractors globally with greater visibility, flexibility, and accuracy.
IT Management: Strengthen security and eliminate busy work by managing identity, devices, and inventory.
Spend Management: Automate and control company costs with granular control over expenses.

Rippling Pricing

Rippling offers a variety of subscription tiers and packages to cater to different business needs.

Core Rippling Unity Platform: Unified workforce directory, global workforce analytics, onboarding automation.
HR Products: Payroll, benefits administration, time & attendance, recruiting, performance management.
IT Products: Identity & access management, device management, inventory management.
Finance Products: Expense management, corporate cards, bill pay.
Global Products: Employer of record, global payroll, global contractors, global HRIS, global benefits.

The prices for each tier are not publicly listed.

Drawbacks To Rippling

General user reviews of Rippling highlight its comprehensive features and ease of use, but some users have noted areas for improvement.

"Rippling offers a wide range of services and acts as a one-stop destination for all my needs." - Amogh G.
"The platform is easy to use but there are small improvements that need to be done." - Ganesh B.

For more detailed reviews, visit the Rippling Reviews page on G2.

Gusto Overview

Gusto provides online payroll and HR solutions aimed at simplifying payroll, HR, and benefits management. Their main value proposition is to offer streamlined services for small and medium-sized businesses, including new startups and companies with remote teams. Gusto is particularly popular among accountants and bookkeeping practices.

Gusto Features

Some of the key features of Gusto include:

Payroll Management System: Automates calculations and tax filings, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.
Benefits Administration: Allows employers to offer health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks seamlessly.
Employee Onboarding: Streamlines the process of bringing new employees into the organization.
Time Tracking: Helps in tracking employee hours and managing payroll accordingly.

Gusto Pricing

Gusto offers a variety of subscription tiers and packages to cater to different business needs.

Simple: $49 per month + $6 per person per month
Plus: $60 per month + $9 per person per month
Premium: $135 per month + $16.50 per person per month
Contractor Only: $0 per month + $6 per person per month

Drawbacks To Gusto

The overall consensus of Gusto from the reviews is generally positive, with users praising its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features. However, some users have noted minor issues with certain functionalities.

"Gusto is a thoughtfully designed platform that offers an exceptionally user-friendly experience." - Jonathan A.
"One downside is that some features may take a little time to get used to, especially for new users, and certain options can feel a bit buried within the platform." - Kris V.

For more detailed reviews, visit the Gusto Reviews page on G2.

What to Know Before Picking Rippling or Gusto

Looking at the reviews as a whole, businesses using Rippling often mention a steep learning curve and a less-than-intuitive interface. Missing and limited features are also common pain points, which can hinder overall efficiency.

On the other hand, Gusto users frequently report issues with customer support, including long hold times and contradictory responses. Problems with state tax filings and a lack of proactive communication are also notable concerns, potentially leading to unexpected penalties.

Why Rho Is a Better Alternative

At Rho, we understand the challenges businesses face with Rippling and Gusto. Our platform addresses these pain points by offering intuitive interfaces, responsive customer support, and comprehensive features. We aim to provide a seamless experience that enhances efficiency and reliability, making us a better choice for your payroll and HR needs.

Rho Features

Business Banking: Our comprehensive banking solutions, including checking and savings accounts, offer dedicated support, addressing the lack of integrated banking services in Gusto.
Corporate Credit Cards: We provide real-time spend monitoring and custom controls, offering more flexibility and control compared to Rippling's card solutions.
Expense Management: Our platform eliminates the need for manual expense reports, which can be cumbersome in Rippling, saving time and reducing errors.
AP Automation: Pay hundreds of vendors in minutes with zero platform fees, addressing potential cost issues and streamlining the vendor payment process compared to Rippling.
Rho Treasury: Safeguard idle cash and earn competitive yields, providing investment options that Gusto lacks.
Integrations: Direct integration with accounting, HR, and T&E software ensures seamless financial management, potentially offering more comprehensive solutions compared to Gusto's integrations.
24/7 Support: Our private banking support is available around the clock, ensuring that you receive timely and solution-driven responses, enhancing overall user experience.

Rho Pricing

We offer a straightforward and transparent pricing structure that sets us apart from competitors like Rippling and Gusto. Our goal is to simplify your financial management with no hidden fees and several free-to-use features.

$0 Same-Day ACH fees: No charges for processing same-day ACH transactions.
$0 Wire fees: No fees for wire transfers, with some exceptions for international wires.
$0 Monthly plans: No monthly subscription fees for accessing our services.
$0 Support fees: Free live support from day one without requiring a monthly plan.
$0 Subscription fees: No charges for subscribing to our services.
$0 Checking account minimum fees: No minimum balance fees for checking accounts.
$0 Connected, in-platform capabilities: Free access to AP, Expense, and Accounting Automation features.
$0 Per-user fees: No charges per user for accessing our platform.
1% Foreign currency transfer: A flat 1% fee on foreign currency transfers.

You can find all the details about our pricing here.

Why Users Love Rho

We’re proud of what we do, but we think our customers say it best. Take a look at why they prefer Rho over other options.

"Rho offers our users a one-touch experience for reporting company expenses on a corporate card." - Sean F., Chief Financial Officer, Mid-Market
"The company implementation of Rho was easy and took less than 2 hours." - Tyler M., Chief Financial Officer, Small-Business
"Rho's customer service team is very helpful." - Kevin K., Director of Marketing and Analytics, Mid-Market

Want a firsthand look at Rho? You can request a free demo here.

Which Platform Is Right for Your Business?

Choosing between Rippling, Gusto, and Rho depends on your business needs. Rippling excels in comprehensive workforce management, while Gusto is user-friendly and ideal for small to medium-sized businesses.

This is where Rho comes in. We offer intuitive interfaces, responsive 24/7 support, and integrated financial services like business banking and corporate credit cards. Our transparent pricing with no hidden fees ensures you get the best value, making us a strong contender for your payroll and HR needs.

Make the Smarter Choice with Rho Today

Curious to see what Rho can do for you? Discover how our platform can transform your business. Get started with Rho today.

Rho is a fintech company, not a bank or an FDIC-insured depository institution. Checking account and card services provided by Webster Bank N.A., member FDIC. Savings account services provided by American Deposit Management Co. and its partner banks. International and foreign currency payments services are provided by Wise US Inc. FDIC deposit insurance coverage is available only to protect you against the failure of an FDIC-insured bank that holds your deposits and subject to FDIC limitations and requirements. It does not protect you against the failure of Rho or other third party. Products and services offered through the Rho platform are subject to approval.

The Rho Corporate Cards are issued by Webster Bank N.A., member FDIC pursuant to a license from Mastercard, subject to approval.

Investment management and advisory services provided by RBB Treasury LLC dba Rho Treasury, an SEC-registered investment adviser and subsidiary of Rho. Rho Treasury investments are not deposits or other obligations of Webster Bank N.A., or American Deposit Management Co.’s partner banks, are not FDIC insured, are not guaranteed and may lose value. Investment products involve risk, including the possible loss of the principal invested, and past performance does not future results. Treasury and custodial services provided through Apex Clearing Corp. and Interactive Brokers LLC, registered broker dealers and members FINRA/SIPC.

¹Up to 2% cashback; terms and conditions apply. See eligibility and complete Rho Cashback Rewards Program terms and conditions here.

This content is for informational purposes only. It doesn’t necessarily reflect the views of Rho and should not be construed as legal, tax, benefits, financial, accounting, or other advice. If you need specific advice for your business, please consult with an expert, as rules and regulations change regularly.