Linear vs Jira
Comprehensive comparison for 2026: features, pricing, and expert recommendations
By Shyft Research TeamUpdated Feb 25, 2026
TL;DR
- Both tools is our recommended choice for most users
- Compare ratings, features, and pricing below
- See detailed pricing comparison below
- Startups, fast-moving teams, keyboard-power users, teams frustrated with Jira
Linear Rating
4.5/5
Jira Rating
N/A
Linear Price
$29/mo
Jira Price
$29/mo
Linear has emerged as the modern alternative to Jira, especially popular with startups. Jira remains the enterprise standard with unmatched customization. This comparison helps you decide based on your team size and needs.
Quick Verdict
Linear wins for speed, UX, and modern teams. Jira wins for enterprise features, customization, and Atlassian ecosystem.
Choose Linear
Linear is fast, beautiful, and opinionated. Best for startups and teams that value speed and simplicity over customization.
Startups, fast-moving teams, keyboard-power users, teams frustrated with Jira
OR
Choose Jira
Jira is the enterprise standard with unlimited customization. Best for large organizations with complex processes and Atlassian stack.
Enterprise, regulated industries, complex workflows, Atlassian ecosystem users
Head-to-Head Comparison
Linear
Jira
Category
project-management
project-management
Rating
No rating
Starting Price
$29/mo
$29/mo
Free Tier
What it Does
Issue tracking built for modern software teams
Issue tracking and project management for agile teams
Frequently Asked Questions
Choose Linear for a fast, opinionated tool that just works. Choose Jira if you need enterprise features, extensive customization, or are already in the Atlassian ecosystem.
Our Expert Verdict
“Linear wins for speed, UX, and modern teams. Jira wins for enterprise features, customization, and Atlassian ecosystem.”
Pros
- • Linear: AI-ready with MCP
- • Jira: Established solution
Recommendation: We recommend depends for most use cases.
Verdict: Linear vs Jira
Winner: depends
Linear wins for speed, UX, and modern teams. Jira wins for enterprise features, customization, and Atlassian ecosystem.
Common Questions: Linear vs Jira
Both Linear and Jira are strong project-management tools. Linear has a 4.5/5 rating and Jira. The best choice depends on your team size, budget, and specific feature requirements. Both offer ways to try before you buy.