HiBob, Rippling, and Gusto rank among the most widely used platforms in the HR software market. While each solution supports core HR functions, they differ in flexibility, scalability, and user experience, especially for mid-sized and global companies.
This guide breaks down the features, pricing, and benefits of all three platforms to help HR teams choose the best software to streamline processes and support business growth.
Key insights
- HiBob offers an all-in-one HR platform that excels in engagement, scalability, and flexibility, making it ideal for mid-sized to global teams
- Rippling integrates HR with IT and finance, providing a comprehensive administrative solution but may lack depth in people-focused features
- Gusto stands out with robust payroll and benefits management, suitable for US-based teams with straightforward HR needs
- When comparing these platforms, consider your team’s specific needs, such as global capabilities, employee engagement, and administrative functions
Rippling vs. Gusto vs. HiBob: A quick overview
Rippling, Gusto, and HiBob all support key HR workflows like recruitment, onboarding, payroll, and performance management—but each platform takes a different approach.
HiBob sets itself apart with a modern, people-first platform that goes beyond admin tasks. Teams use HiBob to enhance engagement, boost productivity, and support retention, making it ideal for mid-sized and scaling global companies focused on building strong cultures and exceptional employee experiences.
Gusto offers best-in-class payroll and benefits capabilities, making it a strong foundation for HR teams managing compliance, tax filing, and employee compensation. Its intuitive interface and automation tools streamline core processes, and it works especially well when paired with broader HR platforms like HiBob to support growing or globally distributed teams.
Rippling combines HR with IT and finance functions. It includes capabilities like device and identity management, which may appeal to businesses looking to centralize administrative systems. However, Rippling treats HR as one module in a system designed primarily for IT and finance, which limits its flexibility for people-focused teams.
Gusto vs. Rippling vs. HiBob: In-depth comparison
Here’s a complete comparison of Rippling, Gusto, and HiBob to help you choose the software that best aligns with your business needs.
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HiBob
HR leaders from small startups to multi-national enterprises use HiBob’s HR software, HiBob, as a central hub for managing their workforce. HiBob brings core HR, onboarding, time and attendance, performance, compensation, and people analytics into one system, helping teams operate efficiently and stay aligned as they grow. With automation and AI-supported insights, HiBob reduces manual work and helps HR and Finance teams access consistent, real-time workforce data for planning and reporting.
HiBob integrates with payroll providers, accounting tools, collaboration platforms, and applicant tracking systems to keep workflows connected across the employee lifecycle—from hiring through ongoing management. Leaders use HiBob’s built-in communication and social tools to share updates, recognize milestones, and build connection across teams and locations.
Customers consistently highlight HiBob’s intuitive experience, configurable workflows, and automation, which streamline day-to-day tasks and allow teams to focus on supporting their people and the business.
Features
- Core HR: Streamline core HR processes, get paperwork done digitally, and keep all team members’ information in a single repository
- Finance: Link people plans to budgets by connecting headcount and workforce cost data, keeping HR and Finance aligned on real-time information
- Hiring and Onboarding: Manage hiring end to end with applicant tracking, interviews, evaluations, and offer letters, then guide new hires through structured onboarding workflows
- Time and Attendance: Record hours, attendance, absences, and time off with integrated tracking tools to support accurate payroll
- Payroll: Ensure accurate, on-time pay with automated calculations, approvals, and reporting that reduce manual effort and support compliance
- Performance and Learning: Run 360-degree reviews, set and track goals, enable continuous feedback, and manage learning journeys through the built-in LMS
- People Analytics: Make data-driven decisions using real-time cross-platform data and measure important metrics such as growth, retention, and headcount
Pros
- Offers a social media-like homepage that’s fun to use
- Has a quick response time and 24/7 support from the HiBob team
- Automates workflows for HR teams and improves their efficiency
- Improves workforce data access and integrity
- Provides a sandbox environment for HR teams to test scenarios before implementation
Cons
- “No specific format for phone numbers” – verified review
- “I wish it had built-in two-factor authentication.” – verified review
Pricing: HiBob pricing plans are crafted personally for HR leaders to match their needs. Their flexible options let you get precisely what your HR team requires, from implementation to integrations.
Gusto
Gusto’s payroll software calculates and syncs work hours, holidays, and paid time off (PTO) so businesses can automate their payroll processes. The platform provides support for filing taxes, maintaining compliance, and identifying tax credits that organizations qualify for.
Gusto’s employee benefits feature lets organizations offer their teams health and financial benefits such as health insurance transfers, medical, dental, and vision administration, smart paycheck management, and automatic short-term savings.
The platforms also include other HR tools such as onboarding, talent management, and time tracking. It also pairs seamlessly with broader HR platforms like HiBob to deliver a comprehensive, scalable people operations experience.
Features
- Automated payroll processing: Automatically file payroll taxes and pay global teams
- Employee benefits: Offer affordable financial and health benefits
- Hiring and onboarding: Recruit, hire, and onboard team members
- Time tracking and time off requests: Plan and manage time, share schedules, and sync hours to payroll
- Insights and reporting tool: Make business decisions based on smart data
Pros
- “So far, my favorite thing about Gusto is the reliability.” – verified review
- “One of the biggest things I appreciate about using Gusto is how clean and easy it is to navigate past payroll runs.” – verified review
- “Easy to manage at work via computer or on the go via my phone.” – verified review
Cons
- “I wish there were more direct or personal support contacts—it can feel a bit impersonal at times.” – verified review
- “One of the main drawbacks of Gusto is that it can become expensive as your team grows or your HR needs become more complex.” – verified review
- “While Gusto covers the essentials very well, the reporting features could be more customizable.” – verified review
Pricing
- Simple: $49/month
- Plus: $80/month
- Premium: $180/month
Rippling
Rippling offers human capital management (HCM), IT, finance, and payroll capabilities. Its HCM solution helps organizations manage the employee lifecycle, from onboarding and performance to benefits administration and compliance.
Rippling’s IT management tools integrate with HR workflows to enhance security and streamline operations. Features such as automated provisioning, single sign-on (SSO), and role-based access controls support secure onboarding, offboarding, and device management.
Additional features include time and attendance tracking, payroll processing, expense and spend management, and workforce planning.
Features
- Workforce management: Streamline HR operations with tools for time, attendance, scheduling, and reporting
- IT: Manage and secure tech assets with IAM and device and application management
- Finance: Centralized payroll processing, expense management, vendor payments, and more
- Spend: Issue corporate cards, pay bills, and manage company spending
Pros
- “Payroll has been a breeze to set up and run. I enjoy the simplicity and automation.” – verified review
- “I love its sleek, automated approach on both payroll and HR Management.” – verified review
- “One of the standout aspects has been their exceptional customer support— we love the chat feature!” – verified review
Cons
- “Maybe the login flow could be easier at first. I got myself in trouble when trying to sign in using SSO.” – verified review
- “If I have to pick one thing, it’s that only admins have access to live chat for support, so if an employee has any questions he/she would have to direct those questions to them.” – verified review
- “One thing I dislike about Rippling is that it can sometimes be a bit tricky to figure out all the features, especially if you’re new to the platform.” – verified review
Pricing: Pricing is not available on the Rippling website, but Rippling offers custom pricing for each platform and module.
<<Compare HiBob vs. Rippling – See which fits your business best>>
Rippling vs. Gusto vs. HiBob: Which is the best HR software for your business?
The right HR platform helps you simplify everyday operations, engage your team, and build a culture where people feel connected and empowered to do their best work.
Rippling focuses on combining HR with IT and finance infrastructure. Companies use it to manage workflows like device provisioning, access control, and payroll administration in one system. However, Rippling leans toward IT and operations. It offers limited engagement features and customization across HR modules, making it less suitable for organizations that prioritize culture, flexibility, and team experience.
Gusto focuses on payroll, benefits administration, and tax compliance. Its simple design and affordability make it a practical option for business owners or HR teams with straightforward needs, especially those managing teams in the United States. Gusto also integrates seamlessly with platforms like HiBob to support growing teams.
HiBob stands out as a modern, all-in-one HR and Finance solution designed to connect, develop, and support your people—wherever they are. From onboarding and training to performance and culture, HiBob helps you humanize HR, improve alignment across teams, and scale with confidence.
With flexible workflows, global capabilities, and a strong focus on employee engagement, HiBob offers the infrastructure growing companies need to thrive.
Disclaimer:
This content reflects HiBob’s perspective, informed by our experience supporting HR teams as they evaluate and implement HR software. It is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as independent research or professional advice. Prospective users should conduct their own evaluation before making a decision.
Feature descriptions, pricing references, and availability for third-party platforms are based on publicly available information at the time of publication and may change. HiBob does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of information related to third-party products. Prospective users should verify details directly with each provider.
