ADP Run vs Basecamp
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
ADP Run
ADP Run is a payroll and HR solution designed specifically for small businesses with 1-49 employees. It is powered by ADP, the world's largest payroll provider, giving small businesses access to enterprise-grade payroll processing and compliance tools. ADP Run offers multiple plan tiers from basic payroll to full HR suite depending on the business needs.
Basecamp
Basecamp is an opinionated project management and team communication tool that combines to-do lists, message boards, file storage, and scheduling in one place. It is known for its simplicity and flat pricing model. Basecamp is popular with agencies, remote teams, and small businesses that want to reduce tool sprawl.
Pros
- ✓Backed by ADP's decades of payroll expertise and compliance knowledge
- ✓Scalable — can grow with your business to ADP Workforce Now
- ✓Strong mobile app for running payroll on the go
- ✓Extensive integration ecosystem
Cons
- ✗Pricing is not transparent and can be expensive compared to competitors
- ✗Customer service quality can be inconsistent
- ✗Upselling of additional services reported by customers
- ✗Interface is less modern than newer payroll tools
Pros
- ✓Simple and opinionated — removes decision fatigue about how to set up projects
- ✓Flat per-user pricing with no feature tiers
- ✓Built-in client access makes it easy to collaborate externally
- ✓Strong async communication tools for remote teams
Cons
- ✗Lacks advanced features like Gantt charts and time tracking
- ✗No free plan available
- ✗Less flexible than tools like ClickUp or Monday.com
- ✗Can feel too simple for complex project portfolios
ADP Run vs Basecamp: Side by Side
| Factor | ADP Run | Basecamp |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Project Management |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Custom pricing | $15/user/mo |
| Best For | Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand | Remote teams and agencies wanting a simple all-in-one project and communication tool |
| Our Pick | — | — |
ADP Run Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee onboarding
- ✓time tracking
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓workers compensation
- ✓HR support
Basecamp Features
- ✓To-do lists
- ✓message boards
- ✓schedules
- ✓file storage
- ✓group chat
- ✓automatic check-ins
- ✓client access
- ✓Hill Charts progress tracking
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. Choose Basecamp if remote teams and agencies wanting a simple all-in-one project and communication tool.
Best For
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand
Best For
Remote teams and agencies wanting a simple all-in-one project and communication tool
Also Consider
If neither ADP Run nor Basecamp is the right fit, Multiplier is worth evaluating.
Multiplier
Startups and SMBs hiring internationally on a budget
From $40/contractor/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ADP Run and Basecamp?
ADP Run is best for small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. Basecamp is best for remote teams and agencies wanting a simple all-in-one project and communication tool.
Which is better, ADP Run or Basecamp?
Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. Choose Basecamp if remote teams and agencies wanting a simple all-in-one project and communication tool.
How much does ADP Run cost?
ADP Run starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Basecamp cost?
Basecamp starts at $15/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use ADP Run?
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand
Who should use Basecamp?
Remote teams and agencies wanting a simple all-in-one project and communication tool