ADP Run vs Lever
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.
Lever
Lever is a modern talent acquisition suite combining ATS and CRM in one platform. Known for its clean interface and strong collaboration features, it helps recruiting teams build talent pipelines proactively.
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
- ✓Clean and intuitive interface
- ✓Strong CRM and nurturing features
- ✓Good collaboration tools for hiring managers
- ✓Solid analytics
- ✓Easy to get started
Cons
- ✗More expensive than basic ATS tools
- ✗Some advanced features require higher tiers
- ✗Limited onboarding features
- ✗Reporting could be deeper
ADP Run vs Lever: Side by Side
| Factor | ADP Run | Lever |
|---|---|---|
| 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-sized companies wanting a combined ATS and CRM with a clean interface and strong collaboration |
| Our Pick | — | — |
ADP Run Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee onboarding
- ✓time tracking
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓workers compensation
- ✓HR support
Lever Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓AI candidate scoring
- ✓job board posting
- ✓interview scheduling
- ✓team collaboration
- ✓analytics
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. Choose Lever if mid-sized companies wanting a combined ats and crm with a clean interface and strong collaboration.
Best For
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand
Best For
Mid-sized companies wanting a combined ATS and CRM with a clean interface and strong collaboration
Also Consider
If neither ADP Run nor Lever 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 Lever?
ADP Run is best for small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. Lever is best for mid-sized companies wanting a combined ats and crm with a clean interface and strong collaboration.
Which is better, ADP Run or Lever?
Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. Choose Lever if mid-sized companies wanting a combined ats and crm with a clean interface and strong collaboration.
How much does ADP Run cost?
ADP Run starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Lever cost?
Visit Lever website for current pricing.
Who should use ADP Run?
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand
Who should use Lever?
Mid-sized companies wanting a combined ATS and CRM with a clean interface and strong collaboration