Updated 2026-01-28
Jira vs Linear
Issue tracking for software teams: speed vs depth.
Small teams usually don’t fail because of lack of effort. Problems start when ownership is unclear, priorities shift, and tasks get lost between conversations. This page compares tools that small teams use once they outgrow simple to‑do lists.
Note: we focus on practical trade-offs. If you already know the category, jump straight to the comparison table.
Quick picks
| Tool | Why it’s a good fit | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|
| Trello Best overall | Perfect for lightweight workflows and simple boards; minimal onboarding. | Can feel limiting once you need reporting, dependencies, or complex permissions. |
| Asana Best value | Fits teams that want clear assignments, projects, and a clean UI without too much configuration. | Reporting depth can require add-ons or higher tiers. |
| Jira Best for teams | Ideal for software teams that track work as tickets/sprints and need strong workflow control. | Steeper learning curve for non-technical teams. |
| Linear Best for beginners | Fast issue tracking for product/dev teams that value speed and clean workflows. | Less suitable for non-technical teams needing broader project templates. |
| monday.com Best for power users | Good for visual tracking and dashboards across departments; easy to understand quickly. | Pricing can scale up fast as you add seats and views. |
How to choose
- Start with the job to be done: what problem are you solving weekly?
- Setup vs simplicity: powerful tools often require configuration.
- Pricing reality: check seat limits, usage caps, and add-ons.
- Adoption: the best tool is the one your team actually uses.
Next steps
Once you’ve shortlisted 2–3 tools, test them with one real workflow (not a demo project). That usually reveals the right pick quickly.