Last updated: October 2026
Payroll provider reviews, pricing, and comparisons
Gusto publishes its price. ADP quotes one.
How to choose a payroll provider
Four things determine which payroll service fits your business, and everything else is noise. First: headcount. Second: how many states you operate in.
Third: industry complexity. Restaurants need tip reporting. Churches need clergy dual-status handling. Fourth: whether you need benefits administration bundled in or bolted on.
Start with a head-to-head comparison
If you already know which two providers you're deciding between, go straight to the comparison. Comparisons cover ADP vs Paychex, Gusto vs Rippling, Gusto vs Justworks, Paylocity vs ADP, Paycom vs ADP, Gusto vs ADP, and Rippling vs ADP. Gusto vs QuickBooks matters if your accountant already has you on QuickBooks and you're wondering whether the payroll add-on is good enough.
Trying to leave a specific provider? Rippling alternatives, Gusto alternatives, and Paychex alternatives each list replacements. Not every alternative is an upgrade. Some fill a gap your current provider misses, and some just move the problem somewhere else.
Provider reviews
Reviews cover ADP, Gusto, and Rippling.
Paychex, SurePayroll, Homebase, Patriot Software, OnPay, and Square Payroll each have their own review. For construction employers, see the Payroll4Construction review.
Pricing breakdowns
Gusto pricing starts at $49 per month plus $6 per employee. ADP pricing isn't published. Rippling pricing, ADP Workforce Now pricing, Paycom pricing, and QuickBooks Payroll pricing have their own breakdowns.
Payroll by business type
Your entity structure changes how payroll works. S corp owners must pay themselves a reasonable salary before taking distributions. Separate guides cover LLC payroll, nonprofits, new businesses, sole proprietors, and freelancers.
Need help setting up from scratch? How to set up payroll walks through the full process from EIN to first paycheck. How to run payroll yourself covers DIY payroll and when it stops making sense. How to pay employees starts even earlier, covering direct deposit setup, pay schedules, and payment methods. For industry-specific needs, see the restaurant payroll and construction payroll guides. For provider picks by situation, see best payroll for startups and best payroll for restaurants.
Frequently asked questions
Can I do payroll myself?
Yes. You need to calculate federal and state withholding, FICA, FUTA, SUTA, and any local taxes for every paycheck. You also need to file quarterly 941s, annual 940s, and state returns on time.
What is the difference between ADP and Gusto?
ADP publishes no price for any RUN or Workforce Now package. Gusto publishes its prices and charges the same rate whether you run payroll once or five times a month.
Our payroll provider comparison spreadsheet is in the works. Drop your email and we'll send it the moment it's ready.
This is not legal or financial advice. Consult a qualified professional for your specific situation.