ClickUp vs Linear: Which Is Better in 2026?

A detailed comparison to help you choose the right project management tool for your needs.

Our Pick: Linear (by a slight margin)

Linear edges out with a slightly higher rating (8.5 vs 8)

Quick Comparison

Aspect
C
ClickUp
L
Linear(Winner)
Overall Rating
8/10
8.5/10
Starting Price
$7/mo
$8/mo
Free Plan
Free Trial
Best For
any
small
Ease of Use
7/10
9/10
Features
10/10
8/10
Value for Money
9/10
9/10
Support
7/10
8/10

Overview

C

ClickUp

ClickUp is an all-in-one productivity platform combining tasks, docs, goals, and chat. It aims to consolidate multiple tools into a single workspace with extensive customization.

L

Linear

Linear is a modern, fast issue tracking tool designed for high-performance software teams. Known for its speed, keyboard shortcuts, and clean design.

Pricing Comparison

Better value: ClickUp
C

ClickUp

Better Value
Pricing ModelFreemium
Starting Price$7/mo
Free Trial
Free Tier
L

Linear

Pricing ModelFreemium
Starting Price$8/mo
Free Trial
Free Tier

Features Comparison

Winner: ClickUp
FeatureClickUpLinear
Kanban Boards
Gantt Charts
Time Tracking
Resource Management
Custom Fields
Automation
Mobile App
Api Access
Guest Access
Max Users
Unlimited
Unlimited

3

features unique to ClickUp

0

features unique to Linear

Pros & Cons

C

ClickUp

Pros

  • Incredible feature depth at low price
  • Generous free tier
  • Built-in docs, whiteboards, and goals
  • Highly customizable views and workflows
  • Native time tracking included

Cons

  • Steep learning curve due to feature depth
  • Can feel cluttered and overwhelming
  • Performance issues with large workspaces
  • Mobile app less polished than desktop
L

Linear

Pros

  • Incredibly fast and responsive
  • Beautiful, modern interface
  • Great keyboard shortcuts
  • Excellent GitHub integration
  • Cycles and roadmap features

Cons

  • Primarily for software teams
  • Less customizable than alternatives
  • Limited third-party integrations
  • No time tracking

The Verdict: Linear Edges Out

This was a close comparison, but Linear edges out ClickUp with a slightly higher overall rating of 8.5/10 versus 8/10. Both are solid choices, but Linear offers a marginally better overall package.

Linear's advantages include Incredibly fast and responsive and Beautiful, modern interface, though ClickUp counters with Incredible feature depth at low price and Generous free tier.

Our recommendation: We give the slight edge to Linear, but don't count out ClickUp if its specific strengths align better with your needs.

Choose ClickUp if you...

  • • Need teams wanting to consolidate tools
  • • Need budget-conscious startups
  • • Need power users who love customization

Choose Linear if you...

  • • Need fast-moving dev teams
  • • Need startups building products
  • • Need teams valuing speed and design

Ready to Get Started?

Try ClickUpTry Linear

Read our full reviews:

ClickUp Full ReviewLinear Full Review

* We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit these tools through our links. This doesn't affect our ratings or comparisons.

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ClickUp vs Linear FAQ

Based on our evaluation, Linear has a slight edge with an overall rating of 8.5/10. However, the best choice depends on your specific needs and use case.
Yes, ClickUp is more affordable with plans starting at $7/month, compared to $8/month for the other.
Linear scores higher in ease of use (9/10) compared to ClickUp (7/10).
Yes, migration between ClickUp and Linear is possible. Most tools offer data export features. Check each tool's documentation for specific migration guides and import capabilities.
For small teams, Linear is specifically designed for this use case. Consider your budget and specific feature needs when choosing.
For startups, consider your growth trajectory. ClickUp offers a free tier which is great for bootstrapped startups.
Yes, each tool has unique strengths. ClickUp excels at: Teams wanting to consolidate tools, Budget-conscious startups. Linear is better for: Fast-moving dev teams, Startups building products. Review our detailed feature comparison above.
Linear rates higher in customer support (8/10) compared to ClickUp (7/10).
Both tools offer similar value for money, each rated 9/10.
Consider switching if Linear's strengths (Fast-moving dev teams) align better with your current needs. However, factor in migration effort and learning curve before making the switch.