ADP Run vs Square POS: which one fits your business?
Side-by-side comparison of ADP Run and Square POS — fees, features, ease, support, and which one fits your business. Scored on the same rubric.
Short answer: ADP Run wins on our scorecard (7.6/10 vs 7.5/10).
| Scored on | ADP Run | Square POS |
|---|---|---|
| Right fit for small biz | 8 | 8 |
| Ease of use | 8 | 9 |
| Fees & pricing | 6 | 7 |
| Customer support | 7 | 5 |
| Features | 9 | 8 |
| Base Pricing | Custom Quote Only | — |
| Direct Deposit | Included in most tiers | — |
| W-2/1099 Filing | Additional Fee (varies) | — |
| Implementation Fee | $0 - $200 (often waived) | — |
| Basic Software Fee | — | $0/mo |
| In-Person Processing | — | 2.6% + 10¢ |
| Online Processing | — | 2.9% + 30¢ |
| Keyed-in Processing | — | 3.5% + 15¢ |
ADP Run in one paragraph
A robust, scalable payroll powerhouse that excels in tax compliance but requires a sharp eye on contract terms and pricing hikes.
Skip it if: You are a solopreneur with zero employees or a tiny team that prioritizes the lowest possible monthly cost.
Square POS in one paragraph
Square POS remains the fastest way to start taking payments, but high-volume businesses will eventually outgrow its flat-rate pricing.
Skip it if: You process more than $25,000 a month and need a dedicated account manager who picks up the phone every time.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, ADP Run or Square POS?
On our five-axis scorecard, ADP Run scores higher (7.6/10 vs 7.5/10). A robust, scalable payroll powerhouse that excels in tax compliance but requires a sharp eye on contract terms and pricing hikes.
Who should skip ADP Run?
You are a solopreneur with zero employees or a tiny team that prioritizes the lowest possible monthly cost.
Who should skip Square POS?
You process more than $25,000 a month and need a dedicated account manager who picks up the phone every time.