Helix vs Linear

What each one covers

Drawn from each product's published feature list. An absence here means we hold no record of it - not that the product lacks it.

What people use each for

The jobs each tool is most often brought in to do.

Where each one falls short

Documented limitations, not opinions. Every one is a constraint you would hit in normal use.

Pricing, plan by plan

Which should you pick?

Questions people ask

Is Helix or Linear better?

Neither clearly leads. Helix starts at Free and Linear at Free, and user ratings are close enough to be indistinguishable. Choose on capability and platform support.

Which is cheaper, Helix or Linear?

Helix starts at Free and Linear at Free.

Does Helix or Linear run on more platforms?

Helix runs on linux, mac, windows. Linear runs on Web, iOS, Android, macOS, Windows.

Can I use Helix for free?

Both have a free tier, so you can try either at no cost before committing.

What is Helix best used for?

Helix is most often used for editing code over ssh or in tmux sessions, working with syntax-aware selection and navigation, getting ide-like completion and diagnostics without plugin setup, lightweight, low-resource code editing on laptops. Of those, editing code over ssh or in tmux sessions and working with syntax-aware selection and navigation are not what Linear is typically brought in for.

What can Helix do that Linear cannot?

Helix covers Multiple Selections, Tree-sitter Syntax Trees, Built-in LSP Support, Fuzzy File Finder. Linear covers Fast, real-time sync, Keyboard-first design, Automatic issue tracking, Cycles (sprints).