ADP Run vs Freshsales
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.
Freshsales
Freshsales is an AI-powered CRM platform designed to help sales teams attract, engage, and close deals faster. It offers built-in phone, email, and chat alongside a powerful AI assistant called Freddy. Freshsales is part of the Freshworks ecosystem and is known for its clean interface and strong automation tools.
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
- ✓Built-in phone and email saves money on integrations
- ✓Strong AI features including lead scoring and deal insights
- ✓Clean modern interface with good user adoption
- ✓Generous free plan available
Cons
- ✗Advanced features require higher tier plans
- ✗Reporting could be more customizable
- ✗Less brand recognition than HubSpot or Salesforce
ADP Run vs Freshsales: Side by Side
| Factor | ADP Run | Freshsales |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | CRM Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Starting Price | Custom pricing | Free |
| Best For | Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand | SMBs wanting an all-in-one CRM with built-in communication tools |
| Our Pick | — | — |
ADP Run Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee onboarding
- ✓time tracking
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓workers compensation
- ✓HR support
Freshsales Features
- ✓Contact and lead management
- ✓built-in phone and email
- ✓AI lead scoring
- ✓deal management
- ✓workflow automation
- ✓reporting
- ✓mobile app
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. Choose Freshsales if smbs wanting an all-in-one crm with built-in communication tools.
Best For
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand
Best For
SMBs wanting an all-in-one CRM with built-in communication tools
Also Consider
If neither ADP Run nor Freshsales 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 Freshsales?
ADP Run is best for small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. Freshsales is best for smbs wanting an all-in-one crm with built-in communication tools.
Which is better, ADP Run or Freshsales?
Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. Choose Freshsales if smbs wanting an all-in-one crm with built-in communication tools.
How much does ADP Run cost?
ADP Run starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Freshsales cost?
Freshsales starts at Free. Pricing model: Freemium.
Who should use ADP Run?
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand
Who should use Freshsales?
SMBs wanting an all-in-one CRM with built-in communication tools