ADP Run vs Paylocity
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.
Paylocity
Paylocity is a modern HR and payroll platform designed for mid-market businesses. It combines payroll processing with employee engagement tools, learning management, and workforce analytics. Paylocity stands out for its strong mobile experience and focus on building connected, engaged workplaces.
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
- ✓Strong employee engagement and communication tools
- ✓Excellent mobile app for both managers and employees
- ✓Modern UI with good user adoption rates
- ✓Robust payroll with strong compliance features
Cons
- ✗Pricing requires a sales call and is not published online
- ✗Implementation can be complex for larger organizations
- ✗Some advanced features require additional modules at extra cost
ADP Run vs Paylocity: Side by Side
| Factor | ADP Run | Paylocity |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Custom pricing | Custom pricing |
| Best For | Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand | Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees |
| Our Pick | — | — |
ADP Run Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee onboarding
- ✓time tracking
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓workers compensation
- ✓HR support
Paylocity Features
- ✓Payroll
- ✓benefits
- ✓talent management
- ✓workforce management
- ✓analytics
- ✓employee self-service
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. Choose Paylocity if mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
Best For
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand
Best For
Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees
Also Consider
If neither ADP Run nor Paylocity 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 Paylocity?
ADP Run is best for small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. Paylocity is best for mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
Which is better, ADP Run or Paylocity?
Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand. Choose Paylocity if mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
How much does ADP Run cost?
ADP Run starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Paylocity cost?
Paylocity starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use ADP Run?
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand
Who should use Paylocity?
Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees