The verdict
On the data we hold, Gusto comes out ahead. Here is why, point by point.
What the data says
- Only Gusto has a free plan to start on.
- Shiftie starts lower, at $0.16/mo against $55/mo.
- Only Gusto has an MCP server, so an AI employee can work in it directly.
- In our HR ranking, Gusto places 12 and Shiftie 27 of 27.
Side by side
Plans and pricing
GU
Gusto
- SimpleSmall single-state teams$55/mo
- PlusMulti-state payroll with time tracking$92/mo
- PremiumAdvanced HR experts and support$202/mo
SH
Shiftie
- Standard (1-30 Employees)Small hospitality teams$3.48/mo
- Standard (31+ Employees)Growing multi-site operations$1.90/mo
Prices as the vendors list them. They change often; the final price is on their sites.
Who each is for
Other options worth a look
ToolCreates a shared workspace and wiki for team documentation, knowledge, and collaboration with built-in AI.HR
From $5.42/moFree plan
ToolBring teams together on an infinite whiteboard to brainstorm, diagram and run workshops in real time.HR
From $8/mo yearlyFree plan
ToolOrganise team communication through channels, direct messages, huddles and file sharing in one place.HR
From €8.25/moFree plan
ToolWrite and edit documents collaboratively in the browser with instant sharing and version history.HR
From €6.80/moFree plan
ToolAutomatically transcribe and summarise meetings across Zoom, Google Meet and Teams with searchable AI chat.HR
From $8.33/mo yearlyFree plan
ToolCentralises standard operating procedures, quizzes and onboarding materials in a searchable knowledge base.HR
From $3/mo yearlyAffiliate link