Linear vs ADP Run
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Linear
Linear is a modern project management tool built for high-performance software teams. It is known for its speed, keyboard-first interface, and opinionated workflows that help engineering teams move fast. Linear has become popular with startups and tech companies as a modern alternative to Jira that prioritizes developer experience.
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
- ✓Incredibly fast and responsive interface
- ✓Keyboard-first design loved by developers
- ✓Clean and modern interface with no clutter
- ✓Strong GitHub and GitLab integration for engineering workflows
Cons
- ✗Built specifically for software teams — limited use for non-technical projects
- ✗Less feature-rich than Jira for complex enterprise workflows
- ✗Smaller integration ecosystem than established tools
- ✗Limited reporting compared to enterprise 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
Linear vs ADP Run: Side by Side
| Factor | Linear | ADP Run |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Project Management | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Starting Price | Free | Custom pricing |
| Best For | High-performance software and engineering teams wanting a fast, modern alternative to Jira | Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Linear Features
- ✓Issue tracking
- ✓sprint cycles
- ✓roadmaps
- ✓GitHub and GitLab integration
- ✓keyboard shortcuts
- ✓API access
- ✓automations
- ✓project insights
ADP Run Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee onboarding
- ✓time tracking
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓workers compensation
- ✓HR support
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Linear if high-performance software and engineering teams wanting a fast, modern alternative to jira. Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand.
Best For
High-performance software and engineering teams wanting a fast, modern alternative to Jira
Best For
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand
Also Consider
If neither Linear nor ADP Run is the right fit, Wrike is worth evaluating.
Wrike
Marketing and creative teams needing enterprise project management with approvals and proofing
From Free
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Linear and ADP Run?
Linear is best for high-performance software and engineering teams wanting a fast, modern alternative to jira. ADP Run is best for small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand.
Which is better, Linear or ADP Run?
Choose Linear if high-performance software and engineering teams wanting a fast, modern alternative to jira. Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand.
How much does Linear cost?
Linear starts at Free. Pricing model: Freemium.
How much does ADP Run cost?
ADP Run starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Linear?
High-performance software and engineering teams wanting a fast, modern alternative to Jira
Who should use ADP Run?
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand