Linear vs Deputy
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.
Deputy
Deputy is a workforce management platform focused on employee scheduling, time tracking, and labor compliance. It helps businesses with shift-based workforces build schedules, manage leave, and track hours worked. Deputy integrates with major payroll providers to streamline the pay run process.
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
- ✓Excellent scheduling tools with AI-powered shift recommendations
- ✓Strong labor compliance features for overtime and break rules
- ✓Good mobile app for employees to clock in, swap shifts, and request leave
- ✓Integrates with 30+ payroll providers
Cons
- ✗Limited core HR features beyond scheduling and time tracking
- ✗Not a full HRIS replacement
- ✗Reporting could be more customizable for complex workforce analytics
Linear vs Deputy: Side by Side
| Factor | Linear | Deputy |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Project Management | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Starting Price | Free | $4.50/user/mo |
| Best For | High-performance software and engineering teams wanting a fast, modern alternative to Jira | Businesses with hourly workers needing scheduling and time tracking |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Linear Features
- ✓Issue tracking
- ✓sprint cycles
- ✓roadmaps
- ✓GitHub and GitLab integration
- ✓keyboard shortcuts
- ✓API access
- ✓automations
- ✓project insights
Deputy Features
- ✓Employee scheduling
- ✓time tracking
- ✓leave management
- ✓payroll integrations
- ✓reporting
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Linear if high-performance software and engineering teams wanting a fast, modern alternative to jira. Choose Deputy if businesses with hourly workers needing scheduling and time tracking.
Best For
High-performance software and engineering teams wanting a fast, modern alternative to Jira
Best For
Businesses with hourly workers needing scheduling and time tracking
Also Consider
If neither Linear nor Deputy 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 Deputy?
Linear is best for high-performance software and engineering teams wanting a fast, modern alternative to jira. Deputy is best for businesses with hourly workers needing scheduling and time tracking.
Which is better, Linear or Deputy?
Choose Linear if high-performance software and engineering teams wanting a fast, modern alternative to jira. Choose Deputy if businesses with hourly workers needing scheduling and time tracking.
How much does Linear cost?
Linear starts at Free. Pricing model: Freemium.
How much does Deputy cost?
Deputy starts at $4.50/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Linear?
High-performance software and engineering teams wanting a fast, modern alternative to Jira
Who should use Deputy?
Businesses with hourly workers needing scheduling and time tracking