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The Internet Compass

Comparison

GitHub vs Linear

Scored side by side on developer-tools, using the same criteria we apply across the category.

GitHub

The default home for source control, code review and CI, with the largest developer network effect.

4.7(21,400)$0 / $4 per user / month
Linear

Keyboard-first issue tracking built for software teams that prize speed over configurability.

4.7(2,140)$0 / $8 per user / month

Scored side by side

Value for money

GitHub
4.3
Linear
4.4

GitHub verdict

The default, and correctly so. Evaluate GitLab only if you need a single self-hosted DevOps platform.

  • Largest ecosystem and integration surface
  • Actions covers most CI needs without a separate vendor
  • Talent familiarity reduces onboarding cost

Linear verdict

The strongest choice for product engineering teams that want process to disappear. Look elsewhere if you need cross-department portfolio reporting.

  • Fastest interface in the category by a wide margin
  • Sensible defaults reduce setup to minutes
  • Cycle automation genuinely improves planning hygiene

FAQ

Common questions

What's the difference between GitHub and Linear?

GitHub: The default, and correctly so. Evaluate GitLab only if you need a single self-hosted DevOps platform. Linear: The strongest choice for product engineering teams that want process to disappear. Look elsewhere if you need cross-department portfolio reporting.

Which has better reviews, GitHub or Linear?

GitHub and Linear carry the same 4.7/5 rating, from 21,400 and 2,140 reviews respectively.

Does GitHub or Linear have a free plan?

Both do. GitHub starts at $0 / $4 per user / month, and Linear starts at $0 / $8 per user / month.