Shortcut vs Linear: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Shortcut and Linear 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:
Shortcut
Project management for software teams
Best for you if:
- • You need project tracking features specifically
- • Shortcut is a project management tool for software development teams
- • It combines planning, tracking, and documentation in one platform
Linear
Issue tracking for software teams
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.1/10 vs 8.3/10)
- • You need task management features specifically
- • Fast issue tracking for dev teams
- • Beautiful clean interface
| At a Glance |  Shortcut | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Project Tracking | Task Management |
Rating | 83/100 | 91/100 |
| Feature | Shortcut | Linear |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 83 | 91 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Project TrackingAgile & Scrum | Task ManagementProject Tracking |
How Shortcut and Linear Compare
Shortcut
Project management for software teams
Free tier available · 83/100 score
Linear
Issue tracking for software teams
Free tier available · 91/100 score
Shortcut is a project tracking tool. Linear is in task management.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Shortcut
Want the highest-rated option?
Shortcut: 83/100. Linear: 91/100.
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?
Shortcut is a project tracking tool. Linear is in task management. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Linear scores higher: 91/100 vs 83/100.
Key Takeaways
Linear
- Higher score: 91/100 vs 83
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Shortcut
- Better fit for project tracking
The Bottom Line
Linear (91/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shortcut or Linear better?
Linear scores 91/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Shortcut and Linear used for?
Shortcut: Project management for software teams. Linear: Issue tracking for software teams.
What does Shortcut cost vs Linear?
Shortcut is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Linear is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.