Lever vs ADP Run
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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.
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.
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
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
Lever vs ADP Run: Side by Side
| Factor | Lever | ADP Run |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Applicant Tracking | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | Custom pricing |
| Best For | Mid-sized companies wanting a combined ATS and CRM with a clean interface and strong collaboration | Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Lever Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓AI candidate scoring
- ✓job board posting
- ✓interview scheduling
- ✓team collaboration
- ✓analytics
ADP Run Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee onboarding
- ✓time tracking
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓workers compensation
- ✓HR support
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Lever if mid-sized companies wanting a combined ats and crm with a clean interface and strong collaboration. Choose ADP Run if 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
Best For
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand
Also Consider
If neither Lever nor ADP Run is the right fit, Manatal is worth evaluating.
Manatal
Recruitment agencies and budget-conscious companies wanting AI-powered ATS at an affordable price
From $15/user/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Lever and ADP Run?
Lever is best for mid-sized companies wanting a combined ats and crm with a clean interface and strong collaboration. ADP Run is best for small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand.
Which is better, Lever or ADP Run?
Choose Lever if mid-sized companies wanting a combined ats and crm with a clean interface and strong collaboration. Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand.
How much does Lever cost?
Visit Lever website for current pricing.
How much does ADP Run cost?
ADP Run starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Lever?
Mid-sized companies wanting a combined ATS and CRM with a clean interface and strong collaboration
Who should use ADP Run?
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand