Linear vs Trello: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Linear and Trello comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Linear
Issue tracking for software teams
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.1/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need task management features specifically
- • Fast issue tracking for dev teams
- • Beautiful clean interface
Trello
Visual project management
Best for you if:
- • You need project tracking features specifically
- • Visual project management
- • Boards, lists, and cards
| At a Glance |  Trello | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Task Management | Project Tracking |
Rating | 91/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | Linear | Trello |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 91 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Task ManagementProject Tracking | Project TrackingRoadmapping |
How Linear and Trello Compare
Linear
Issue tracking for software teams
Free tier available · 91/100 score
Trello
Visual project management
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Linear is a task management tool. Trello is in project tracking.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Linear
Want the highest-rated option?
Linear: 91/100. Trello: 84/100.
Go with: Linear
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Linear
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Linear is a task management tool. Trello is in project tracking. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Linear scores higher: 91/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Linear
- Higher score: 91/100 vs 84
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Trello
- Better fit for project tracking
The Bottom Line
Linear (91/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Linear or Trello better?
Linear scores 91/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Linear and Trello used for?
Linear: Issue tracking for software teams. Trello: Visual project management.
What does Linear cost vs Trello?
Linear is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Trello is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.