Paychex vs ADP Run
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Paychex
Paychex is a comprehensive payroll and HR services provider with decades of experience serving businesses of all sizes. It offers payroll processing, tax compliance, benefits administration, and HR support through both software and managed services. Paychex is a reliable choice for businesses that want a proven, full-service payroll partner.
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
- ✓Highly reliable payroll processing with strong compliance track record
- ✓Scalable from small businesses to large enterprises
- ✓Dedicated HR advisors available for guidance
- ✓Strong time and attendance integrations
Cons
- ✗Interface feels dated compared to modern HR tools
- ✗Customer support can be slow to resolve complex issues
- ✗Pricing can be opaque with various add-on fees
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
Paychex vs ADP Run: Side by Side
| Factor | Paychex | ADP Run |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $39/mo + $5/employee | Custom pricing |
| Best For | Small to large businesses needing reliable payroll | Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Paychex Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓benefits
- ✓HR administration
- ✓time tracking
ADP Run Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee onboarding
- ✓time tracking
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓workers compensation
- ✓HR support
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Paychex if small to large businesses needing reliable payroll. Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand.
Best For
Small to large businesses needing reliable payroll
Best For
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand
How Paychex and ADP Run Are Similar
- •Both are Payroll Software platforms designed for business teams
- •Both offer web-based access with no software installation required
- •Both provide customer support and onboarding resources
- •Both integrate with popular third-party business tools
- •Both offer a trial or demo to evaluate before purchasing
Also Consider
If neither Paychex nor ADP Run 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 Paychex and ADP Run?
Paychex is best for small to large businesses needing reliable payroll. ADP Run is best for small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand.
Which is better, Paychex or ADP Run?
Choose Paychex if small to large businesses needing reliable payroll. Choose ADP Run if small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand.
How much does Paychex cost?
Paychex starts at $39/mo + $5/employee. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does ADP Run cost?
ADP Run starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Paychex?
Small to large businesses needing reliable payroll
Who should use ADP Run?
Small businesses that want enterprise-grade payroll reliability from a trusted brand