Deel vs Gusto: In-Depth EOR Comparison for 2026
Compare features, pricing, and capabilities side-by-side. I've analyzed both EOR providers to help you make the right decision for your global hiring needs.
Robbin Schuchmann
Co-founder, Employ Borderless
Deel vs Gusto: quick comparison
Short on time? Here are the key differences between Deel and Gusto at a glance.
 | | |
|---|---|---|
| EOR pricing | $599/per employee/month | $599/per employee/month |
| Contractor pricing | $49/per employee/month | $40/per employee/month |
| Payroll pricing | $29/per employee/month | — |
| Overall rating | 8.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| Countries | 88+ | 103+ |
| Visit site | Visit site |
EOR pricing
$599/per employee/month
Contractor pricing
$49/per employee/month
Payroll pricing
$29/per employee/month
Overall rating
8.9/10
Countries
88+
EOR pricing
$599/per employee/month
Contractor pricing
$40/per employee/month
Payroll pricing
—
Overall rating
8.2/10
Countries
103+
Let me be honest: choosing between Deel and Gusto for payroll and HR is trickier than most comparison articles make it seem. You’ll find plenty of feature lists and pricing charts, but what really matters is understanding that these HR platforms solve completely different problems – Deel handles international hiring across 150+ countries, while Gusto focuses exclusively on US-based payroll and benefits.
I’ve been analyzing EOR and payroll platforms for the past few years, and I keep seeing the same thing: businesses compare these two because they’re both popular, then realize six months later they picked the wrong tool for their actual needs. Deel built its reputation on global compliance and international payments, while Gusto positioned itself as the easiest US payroll solution for small businesses. Both work really well, but they’re built for fundamentally different situations.
The real decision comes down to what matters most to you: Deel works best when you’re hiring internationally or planning to expand beyond the US, while Gusto is better for US-based companies that want simple, affordable payroll without any international complexity. Your expansion plans, team location, and whether you need global hiring capabilities will determine which platform actually makes sense.
My goal is to help you understand how these payroll platforms actually work in practice, so you can decide if you need Deel’s international EOR services at $599 per employee or if Gusto’s US-focused solution at $40-$80 per month fits your situation better.
Editorial note: By using our partner links, you'll get exclusive discounts and the best available offers we've negotiated while also supporting our efforts to provide unbiased comparisons of global hiring solutions.
What is Deel?
Deel is an Employer of Record (EOR) and a global payroll platform. Companies use it to hire, pay, and manage international contractors and full-time employees without setting up local entities.
Alex Bouaziz, Shuo Wang, and Ofer Simon founded the company in 2019. Deel is headquartered in San Francisco and has raised more than $980 million in seven funding rounds.
The platform is now valued at $17.3 billion.
How Deel works
Deel supports hiring and payroll across more than 150 countries.Companies typically use the platform for the following services:
- Employer of Record (EOR): Deel becomes the legal employer in the target country while the client manages the day-to-day work
- Contractor management: Allow clients to hire, manage, and pay independent contractors in multiple countries through a single platform.
- Contractor of Record (COR): Deel takes on the liability, manages all HR/admin, and handles the risk for you.
- Global payroll: Clients submit payroll data and approve it in one dashboard, and Deel handles taxes, deductions, and currency conversions automatically.
What stood out in my tests
In my tests of the platform, the onboarding stood out for its simplicity and speed.In most cases, contracts are generated automatically based on the country, reviewed right on the platform, and approved in a few steps.
What it means for clients: Deel clients can hire in established markets within days. They’re also likely to find better contract standardization, clear compliance guidance, and faster onboarding compared to smaller regional providers.
| Founded | 2019 |
| Headquarters | San Francisco |
What is Gusto?
Gusto's EOR, also known as Gusto Global, is an extension of Gusto's popular payroll and HR platform designed to support businesses in hiring and managing international employees. Known to be powered by Remote, it allows companies to expand their workforce globally without establishing local legal entities in foreign countries.
Gusto EOR's core strengths lie in its user-friendly design, comprehensive payroll features, and integrated benefits administration. The platform is particularly well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses looking to hire in its supported countries or those managing international contractors across multiple countries.
| Founded | 2011 |
| Headquarters | San Francisco |
What are the key features of Deel vs Gusto?
When you're choosing between EOR providers, it comes down to what each one actually does for you. Some focus on payroll processing, others specialize in compliance management, and some offer better employee benefits. Here's what sets these two apart.
Deel key features
Deel processes payroll in 120+ currencies across 150+ countries with withdrawal options including bank transfers, Revolut, Wise, PayPal, and crypto. The payment dashboard shows exactly what each person receives after local tax deductions.
Allow clients to hire full-time employees without establishing their own legal presence. Deel handles employment contracts, onboarding, tax registration, and mandatory benefits in each country.
Deel legally employs contractors on your behalf and assumes liability for any misclassification claims.
The platform generates localized contractor agreements and handles payments in 150+ countries. Tax forms such as 1099s are created automatically.
Deel tracks regulatory changes across all countries and automatically updates the contract templates.
The platform offers health insurance, retirement plans, and stipends tailored to each country. The client can customize packages through the dashboard while Deel ensures mandatory benefits are always included.
Gusto key features
Gusto runs payroll automatically across states, handles tax calculations, and files required forms. Companies can run payroll as often as needed without extra fees.
Health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits live inside the platform. Enrollment, deductions, and ongoing management connect directly to payroll.
The platform includes basic time tracking and tools to set up PTO policies. Hours and time off flow into payroll without manual entry.
Employees can view pay stubs, download tax forms, update personal details, and manage benefits on their own.
Gusto files federal, state, and local payroll taxes automatically and supports required employment filings to reduce compliance errors.
Gusto supports international EOR hiring in a limited number of countries through its Global offering, powered by an external partner.
Standard payroll and workforce reports cover wages, taxes, benefits, and employee data. Reports export easily for accounting or audits.
The platform supports paying and managing 1099 contractors alongside full-time employees.
What benefits do Deel and Gusto offer?
Features are one thing, but how do they actually help your business? Think faster onboarding, fewer compliance headaches, and smoother payroll runs. Here are the real benefits you'll get from each provider.
Deel benefits
Faster international hiring
Deel allows companies to hire internationally without creating owned subsidiaries. This can cut weeks or months from the hiring process.
Lower compliance risk
Employment contracts, payroll rules, and benefits follow local regulations automatically. That means lower compliance risk and less manual tracking (or none at all).
Centralized workforce management
Contractors and full-time employees are managed through a single platform. This replaces multiple HR and payroll systems and saves time.
Better employee experience
Faster onboarding, predictable payroll, and access to local benefits all add to the overall experience of international employees and contractors.
Gusto benefits
Easy to get started
The interface is simple, and setup is guided. Most users get comfortable quickly without formal training.
All core payroll in one place
Payroll runs, tax filings, and payments live in the same system. Most features come standard, without add-on fees.
HR tasks stay connected
Payroll, benefits, and basic HR functions work together. This reduces duplicate work and manual handoffs.
Built-in compliance support
Automated tax filings and required forms help reduce missed deadlines and filing errors.
Employee self-service
Employees handle routine tasks on their own, such as viewing pay stubs, updating details, and managing benefits.
Scales with company size
Plans work for small teams and continue to support growth into mid-sized businesses.
Wide integration coverage
Gusto connects with a large number of accounting, HR, and business tools to fit into existing workflows.
Clear pricing
Pricing is published and predictable, which makes monthly costs easier to plan.
How do Deel and Gusto compare on pricing?
Let's talk money. EOR pricing can be tricky - some providers quote low monthly fees but charge extra for setup, onboarding, or additional services. Here's what each provider charges for their main services.
| | |
|---|---|---|
| Employer of record | $599/per employee/month | $599/per employee/month |
| Contractor management | $49/per employee/month | $40/per employee/month |
| Global payroll | $29/per employee/month | — |
Not sure which is right for you?
Tell me about your team and I'll give you a free, unbiased recommendation.
What are the pros and cons of Deel vs Gusto?
No EOR provider is perfect - they all have their sweet spots and pain points. Getting honest about what works and what doesn't will save you from unpleasant surprises down the road. Here's the real talk on both providers.
Deel
- +
Owned legal entities
This gives Deel more direct control compared to providers that use third-party suppliers.
- +
Multi-currency payroll services
Processes payments in over 120 local currencies (often with better exchange rates than bank transfers).
- +
Automated compliance tracking
Generates country-specific contracts and tax forms automatically.
- +
Contractor of Record service
Deel assumes the misclassification liability by hiring contractors on your behalf through their entities.
- +
Localized benefits packages
Health insurance, equipment stipends, and perks are tailored to each market. This helps Deel clients attract (and keep) better talent.
- +
24/7 support across multiple channels
They offer round-the-clock support beyond workdays.
- +
Unified platform
Manages both contractors and full-time employees in one system.
- −
Premium pricing
With EOR at $499 per month and contractor management at $49, their rates are higher compared to some budget providers.
- −
Support delays during peak periods
Response times might exceed those advertised during busy payroll periods.
- −
Limited reporting
Analytics covers the essentials but lacks deep customization options.
Gusto
- +
Fast US payroll processing
Run payroll in under 10 minutes with automated tax calculations and filings
- +
Clean interface
Navigate without training, with clear labels and logical workflows
- +
Contractor payments in 120+ countries
Pay freelancers internationally without separate platforms
- +
Strong accounting integrations
Sync payroll data automatically to QuickBooks, Xero, and FreshBooks
- +
Unlimited payroll runs
Process payroll as often as needed without extra charges
- +
Built-in time tracking
Employees clock in from web or mobile, hours sync directly to payroll
- −
Limited EOR coverage
Full-time employees only supported in 12 countries
- −
Inconsistent customer support
Response quality varies, with longer wait times during busy periods
- −
Limited mobile admin functions
Many employer tasks still require desktop access
- −
Recent price increases
March 2025 raised base plan costs 23% without new features
What do customers say about Deel vs Gusto?
Don't just take my word for it. Here's what actual users say about working with these providers on major review platforms.
| | |
|---|---|---|
| G2 | 4.8 11,935 reviews | 4.5 2,259 reviews |
| Trustpilot | 4.7 8,150 reviews | — |
| Capterra | 4.8 3,697 reviews | — |
| Glassdoor | 4.5 1,708 reviews | — |
Ratings sourced directly from each platform. Last updated February 2026.
Customer support: Deel vs Gusto
When things go wrong (and they will), you want to know someone's got your back. Great support can make the difference between a minor hiccup and a major disaster. Here's how these providers handle support.
| | |
|---|---|---|
| Support availability | 24/7 | Business Hours |
| Dedicated account manager | Yes | No |
| Support languages | English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, Dutch, Italian, Other | — |
| Self-service resources | Yes | No |
| Community forum | No | No |
How do Deel and Gusto compare on our ratings?
I've scored both providers across 10 categories based on hands-on testing, user feedback, and independent research. Here's how they stack up.
Features
Country coverage
Pricing
User experience
Customer support
Integrations
Mobile app
Analytics & reporting
Security
Compliance
Third-party ratings average
Complete comparison table
Every detail that matters when choosing an EOR provider. Compare pricing, features, country coverage, and support options in one easy-to-scan table.
| Feature |  Deel | Gusto |
|---|---|---|
| EOR pricing | From $599/mo | From $599/mo |
| Countries | 88+ | 103+ |
| Overall rating | 8.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| Mobile app | ||
| API available | ||
| Webhook support | ||
| Dedicated account manager | ||
| Self-service resources | ||
| Community forum |
Which provider should you choose?
Different companies have different needs. Your team size, budget, and where you're hiring all play a role in which provider will work best for you. Here's how to pick the right fit.
Choose Deel if:
Deel is an excellent choice for businesses prioritizing global expansion and requiring robust international payroll and compliance support. I recommend Deel to:
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- Fast-growing startups looking to tap into global talent pools
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- Large enterprises managing a diverse, international workforce
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- Companies expanding into multiple international markets simultaneously
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- Businesses with a significant number of international contractors
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- Organizations that need flexibility in payment methods and currencies
Deel’s strength lies in its ability to simplify the complexities of international hiring and payroll. Its comprehensive compliance support across numerous countries makes it invaluable for businesses navigating the challenges of global employment laws.
The platform is particularly well-suited for tech companies, digital nomad-friendly businesses, and any organization embracing global remote work. Deel’s customizable contracts and multi-currency support provide the flexibility needed in today’s dynamic global business environment.
However, it’s important to note that Deel’s advanced features and global reach come with a higher price point. Therefore, it’s most cost-effective for businesses that fully utilize its international capabilities rather than those primarily operating in a single country.
Choose Gusto if:
Gusto is an ideal solution for US-based small to medium-sized businesses seeking a user-friendly, comprehensive payroll and HR platform. I recommend Gusto to:
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- Small businesses and startups with primarily US-based employees
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- Companies looking for an all-in-one payroll and benefits administration solution
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- Businesses that prioritize user experience and easy-to-use interfaces
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- Organizations new to managing their own payroll and HR processes
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- US companies with a limited number of international contractors
Gusto’s strength is its ability to simplify complex payroll and HR tasks for businesses without dedicated HR departments. Its intuitive interface and comprehensive feature set make it accessible even to those without extensive payroll experience.
The platform is well-suited for service-based businesses, retail operations, and non-profits operating in the United States. Gusto’s integrated benefits administration and time-tracking features provide significant value for businesses looking to streamline their HR processes.
It’s worth noting that while Gusto offers some support for international contractors, its primary focus is on US-based operations. Therefore, it’s most suitable for businesses operating solely within the US or having minimal international hiring needs.
When to consider alternatives
Sometimes neither option is quite right. Maybe you need rock-bottom pricing, enterprise-level features, or coverage in a specific country these providers don't serve well. Here are some other EOR providers worth checking out.
RemoFirst
Small businesses making their first international hires who prioritize low pricing over advanced features.
Read review
Remote
Companies who want strong protection of intellectual property (IP) and legal risk coverage when hiring internationally
Read review
Hire With Columbus
Companies hiring 5 or more international employees who want to keep costs low and predictable
Read reviewNot sure which is right for you? Get a free, personalized recommendation based on your team and budget.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Deel can be suitable for small businesses, especially those hiring internationally or with global contractors. However, Gusto might be more cost-effective for small US-based businesses with no international employees.
Gusto primarily focuses on US payroll but offers limited support for paying international contractors. For extensive international payroll needs, Deel is the better option.
Deel does offer benefits administration, but it’s more focused on providing country-specific benefits for international employees. Gusto offers more comprehensive benefits administration for US-based employees.
Both platforms offer robust reporting features. Gusto’s reports are more tailored for US businesses, while Deel provides more comprehensive global payroll reports.
Yes, Deel’s recently launched mobile app allows users to manage various aspects of payroll, including viewing payslips, submitting timesheets, and managing contracts on the go.
Gusto is excellent for US compliance. Due to its global expertise, Deel has the edge for international compliance across multiple countries.
Still not sure?
Get a free, personalized recommendation based on your team size, budget, and hiring countries.