HR & Payroll Platform Comparisons

A framework for understanding how different platforms approach HR and Payroll challenges. We focus on decision logic rather than rankings.

Our HR Platform Comparison Philosophy

We don't rank platforms or provide single answers. The right choice depends on your organization's specific context—geographic footprint, growth stage, workforce composition, and risk tolerance. Our goal is to help you understand the trade-offs.

Geographic Coverage

Where can you hire employees and contractors?

Gusto
US-focused

United States (primary) · Limited international contractor support

Deel
150+ countries

150+ countries · Strong coverage in Europe, APAC, LATAM

Remote
80+ countries

80+ countries with owned entities · Focus on major employment markets

Worker Classification Support

How does each platform handle different employment relationships?

Gusto
Employees + US Contractors

Strong domestic employee support, limited international contractor management

Deel
Full Flexibility

Comprehensive contractor and EOR options across jurisdictions

Remote
Employees + Contractors

Strong EOR focus with contractor support in covered markets

Compliance Infrastructure

How does each platform approach regulatory compliance?

Gusto
US Tax Expertise

Deep US federal, state, and local tax compliance automation

Deel
Global Network

Partner network and owned entities for multi-jurisdiction compliance

Remote
Owned Entities

Direct ownership of legal entities for compliance control

Growth Stage Fit

Which organizational stages does each platform serve best?

Gusto
SMB Focus

Optimized for 1-500 employees, US-centric operations

Deel
Startup to Enterprise

Scales from first international hire to large distributed teams

Remote
Growth to Enterprise

Best for committed international expansion strategies

At-a-Glance Payroll Platform Comparison

DimensionGustoDeelRemote
US Payroll
Global EOR
Contractor Management
Benefits Integration
Country CoverageUS150+80+
StrongAvailableLimited

Which HR Platform Might Fit Your Situation?

Consider Gusto if...

  • Your workforce is primarily US-based
  • You value integrated benefits management
  • You're a small to medium business (under 500)
  • User experience is a priority

Consider Deel if...

  • You're hiring across many countries
  • You need flexibility between contractors and EOR
  • Speed of international hiring matters
  • You're building a remote-first team

Consider Remote if...

  • Compliance certainty is paramount
  • You're making long-term international commitments
  • IP protection is a concern
  • Consistent employee experience matters

Need More Context?

Explore specific hiring scenarios or dive deeper into individual platform reviews.