Softabase

ADP Run vs OnPay: Complete Comparison 2026

An in-depth comparison of features, pricing, and user experience to help you make the right choice.

ADP Run logo

ADP Run

7.8(5,600 reviews)

Small business payroll from ADP, the world's largest payroll provider. Automatic tax filing and compliance built on decades of expertise.

OnPay logo

OnPay

8.3(1,400 reviews)

Straightforward payroll and HR for small businesses. One plan at $40/month + $6/person with no feature gating or upsells.

Quick Comparison

AspectADP RunOnPay
Best ForBusinesses in multiple states needing bulletproof tax complianceSmall businesses under 50 employees that want all features without tiered pricing games
Pricing ModelContact SalesSubscription
Starting Price$59/mo$40/mo
Deploymentcloudcloud
PlatformsWEB, IOS, ANDROIDWEB, IOS, ANDROID
Rating7.8/108.3/10

Pros & Cons

ADP Run

Pros

  • Tax compliance engine covers all 50 states and 12,000+ local jurisdictions — the most thorough in the industry
  • 75+ years of payroll expertise means edge cases that break other tools are routine for ADP
  • Strong integration ecosystem with 300+ apps including QuickBooks, Xero, and major time clocks
  • Dedicated 500+ compliance team updates your system proactively when tax laws change
  • Scalable path to ADP Workforce Now when you outgrow 50 employees

Cons

  • Pricing requires a sales call — no transparent pricing on the website
  • Interface feels dated compared to Gusto and Rippling, needs more clicks for basic tasks
  • Add-ons for time tracking, HR support, and retirement drive up costs quickly
  • Phone support quality varies — some reps are excellent, others read from scripts
  • Contract terms can lock you in for a year with early termination fees

OnPay

Pros

  • One plan with everything included — no feature gating, no tiers, no surprise upsells
  • Transparent pricing at $40/month + $6/person makes budgeting dead simple
  • Free accountant dashboard lets CPAs manage multiple client payrolls from one login
  • Rock-solid QuickBooks and Xero integrations that sync without manual intervention
  • US-based customer support with dedicated specialists who actually know payroll

Cons

  • No international payroll — US only, no contractor payments abroad
  • Mobile app is functional but limited compared to desktop experience
  • Reporting is basic — standard reports only, no custom report builder
  • No 24/7 support — business hours only, which is tough for after-hours emergencies
  • Limited scalability past 100 employees — features plateau for larger companies

Pricing Comparison

ProductPricing ModelStarting Price
ADP Runcontact sales$59/mo
OnPaysubscription$40/mo

Our Verdict

Choose ADP Run if...

Businesses in multiple states needing bulletproof tax compliance

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Choose OnPay if...

Small businesses under 50 employees that want all features without tiered pricing games

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Still Not Sure?

Explore more alternatives or read in-depth reviews to make your decision.