ADP Run vs iCIMS
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.
iCIMS
iCIMS is a leading enterprise recruiting platform offering applicant tracking, candidate relationship management, and onboarding in one system. Known for its scalability and deep configurability.
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
- ✓Highly scalable for large hiring volumes
- ✓Strong CRM and pipeline features
- ✓Good compliance tools
- ✓Robust integration marketplace
- ✓Excellent customer support
Cons
- ✗Interface feels dated compared to newer tools
- ✗Expensive for smaller teams
- ✗Implementation can be lengthy
- ✗Reporting has a learning curve
ADP Run vs iCIMS: Side by Side
| Factor | ADP Run | iCIMS |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Applicant Tracking |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Custom pricing | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand | Mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform |
| Our Pick | — | — |
ADP Run Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee onboarding
- ✓time tracking
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓workers compensation
- ✓HR support
iCIMS Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓recruiting CRM
- ✓onboarding
- ✓career site builder
- ✓analytics
- ✓compliance management
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. Choose iCIMS if mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform.
Best For
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform
Also Consider
If neither ADP Run nor iCIMS 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 iCIMS?
ADP Run is best for small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. iCIMS is best for mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform.
Which is better, ADP Run or iCIMS?
Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. Choose iCIMS if mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform.
How much does ADP Run cost?
ADP Run starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does iCIMS cost?
Visit iCIMS website for current pricing.
Who should use ADP Run?
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand
Who should use iCIMS?
Mid-to-large enterprises needing a scalable and highly configurable recruiting platform