Paymo vs Gusto
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Paymo
Paymo is a project management and time tracking tool built for freelancers and small agencies. It combines task management, time tracking, invoicing, and resource scheduling in one platform.
Gusto
Gusto is a full-service HR and payroll platform built for small businesses. It handles payroll taxes automatically, offers employee benefits administration, and includes onboarding tools that make it easy to bring on new hires. Gusto is known for its clean interface and transparent pricing, making it a top choice for founders managing HR for the first time.
Pros
- ✓Built-in time tracking and invoicing
- ✓Good resource scheduling
- ✓Ideal for client-facing work
- ✓Affordable pricing
- ✓Clean interface
Cons
- ✗Not suited for large enterprise teams
- ✗Limited automation
- ✗Smaller integration ecosystem
- ✗Reporting less robust than competitors
Pros
- ✓Automatic federal, state, and local tax filing saves hours each month
- ✓Transparent flat-rate pricing with no hidden fees
- ✓Excellent onboarding flow with offer letters, e-signatures, and self-onboarding
- ✓Strong benefits administration including health, dental, and 401k
Cons
- ✗International payroll is limited and requires third-party tools
- ✗Can get expensive as headcount grows beyond 50 employees
- ✗Reporting and analytics are basic compared to enterprise tools
Our Take
Choose Paymo if freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing. Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees.
Best For
Freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing
Best For
Small businesses under 100 employees