25 Best Time Tracking Software for Every Need and Situation

Adding bulk time in Paymo is easy with a few clicks or keystrokes

Paymo sets itself apart with its extensive time-tracking features, smoothly integrated with a user-friendly invoicing system. It is a perfect fit for creative teams, consultants, and small businesses of up to 20 people who do client work. This online software is especially beneficial for small businesses that tackle daily tasks and seek to streamline their workflow by automatically generating invoices upon task completion.

In this very brief video, you can see how easy it is to track time in Paymo manually or automatically:

A standout feature of Paymo is its ‘Paymo Track’ app, which automates time tracking. This functionality records desktop activities, including the use of applications and websites, both online and offline, without the need for manual input. This can be a significant time-saver for small businesses working on multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring that all work-related activities are captured accurately with less employee effort.

To do automated time tracking, you start Paymo Track, which runs in the background and automatically logs time spent on desktop applications. When you finish work, you link these logs to specific tasks and projects manually or automatically by creating specific linking rules. All data is stored locally, with users deciding which logs to keep. Unlike TimeDoctor or Hubstaff, Paymo Track doesn’t take screen captures, ensuring user privacy. 

This level of automation should suffice for most small businesses. Still, for those seeking further automation, time-tracking apps like RescueTime or Replicon aim to enhance automation by using AI to transform time entries into tasks. However, this technology is still early and might be more cumbersome than helpful. If you’re searching for more sophisticated automation, explore these apps despite the potential complications.

If you’re a fan of the Pomodoro technique, Paymo has an exceptionally designed Pomodoro timer. The Pomodoro timer is set up with default 25-minute focus periods, accompanied by short breaks of 5 and 15 minutes, which you can easily adjust to your liking. Plus, you have the option to enable audible alerts for session endings. The interface visually tracks four Pomodoros, guiding you through a productive work cycle before signaling a more extended break.

The invoicing module is another standout feature. With Paymo, you can generate invoices from scratch and integrate with popular payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, and Authorize.net. Paymo also has its payment gateway, PM Payments (available only in the US), a convenient method for clients to pay you quickly and securely via credit card and ACH.

This module is perfect for individuals who prefer a straightforward invoicing solution without the need for extensive accounting expertise. When comparing Paymo with other competitors, it’s important to note that similar features are often included in the most expensive packages.

However, with Paymo, you can create unlimited invoices for free, regardless of your subscription level. For more details, please read our article on the best free invoicing software of 2024.

While Paymo has many strengths, it faces challenges in communication. As a timekeeping software, it lacks an integrated chat system, relying instead on task comments, project discussions, and customizable notifications for team interactions.

While this approach can be practical, especially when paired with external communication tools like Slack, it may not meet the needs of teams seeking seamless, in-platform communication. Basecamp, with its more integrated communication features, could be a preferable option.

Opinions on Paymo’s user-friendliness are divided. While some users appreciate its interface, others, especially those with less technical experience, find it less intuitive than alternatives like Toggl Track. Toggl Track is particularly favored by freelancers, who prioritize simplicity and ease of use in time tracking. However, its simplicity may be limiting when managing more complex projects.

Paymo stands out as one of the most affordable options compared to its competitors. It boasts an exemplary support team akin to those of Timely, Harvest, Replicon, or ClickUp, providing top-notch assistance to users. This starkly contrasts with alternatives like TimeDoctor or Zoho, where support quality is lackluster. However, like TrackingTime, Paymo could improve its integration capabilities with other apps.

Paymo was launched in 2008 as a basic tool for time tracking and invoicing. It has since evolved into comprehensive time-tracking software for small businesses integrated into a full work management solution. It is now used by small businesses and agencies in over 50 countries.

Despite its expansion, the focus on time tracking has persisted. The company’s long history suggests it has consistently adapted and refined its features based on user feedback and the market’s changing needs.

A simple manual time entry in Paymo – add time by interval (start-end time) or by duration (hours and minutes)

Pricing

There’s a free plan available that includes time-tracking and invoicing capabilities. Paymo is currently running a spring promotion: up to 40% off on your first 3 months.
Snag the discount here before the offer expires. Paid monthly plans start at $3.9/user/month. Check all the features here.

The app also supports schools, colleges, and universities worldwide by offering a 50% discount. Paymo also supports anyone who wants to do good for society, as nonprofit organizations are eligible for the 50% discount.

Rating

Paymo scores 4.7/5 on Capterra and 4.6/5 on G2. Thanks to its robust and reliable Paymo Track, Paymo could easily rank among the top three software for time tracking functionality. The advanced task management features, resource scheduling, and accounting modules have you covered if you want to manage projects from start to finish with your team.

Check out this complete Paymo review to make an informed opinion before you try it.

Toggl Track is an excellent timekeeping software for freelancers who value simplicity and ease of use. Its straightforward approach to tracking time is its standout feature, making it a viable option for those who require just that and nothing more.

Moreover, Toggl Track’s free version is noteworthy in the time tracking domain, offering a robust set of features many competitors do not. This contrasts with services like Clockify, where the free version’s functionalities are significantly restricted, pushing users towards paid plans while heavily promoting its free version.

Toggl Track could be the perfect fit for individuals who work independently and don’t require an array of complex features. If a simple and direct approach meets your needs, there’s no reason to invest in additional, unnecessary functionalities. Toggl Track provides an optimal mix of essential features and user-friendliness, making it an appealing choice for those seeking efficiency without complications.

However, for those delving into the more complex aspects of project management, especially when handling multiple clients and projects, Toggl Track’s design might not be as conducive. Users have pointed out concerns in their reviews regarding its usability in such situations.

One notable critique involves the significant amount of unused space in Toggl Track’s interface, which limits the amount of visible information to a few lines or projects at any given time, potentially making managing numerous projects or tasks more challenging.

Additionally, users report that navigating Toggl Track can be challenging, primarily due to its reliance on multiple colors to categorize clients and projects. Although this color-coding is meant to facilitate organization, it can inadvertently complicate the process of distinguishing between various projects.

Users have recommended that adopting a more distinct form of labeling, such as color-coded bubbles or other unique visual cues, could significantly enhance the ability to quickly and clearly identify specific entries.

Despite offering one of the most competitive free plans, accommodating up to 5 users, its pricing is higher, beginning at $8 per user. In comparison, there are more budget-friendly alternatives like Time Analytics, with plans starting at $4.99, or Paymo, whose pricing begins at $5.9.

Toggl Track, known initially as Toggl, was established in 2006. Like Paymo, it has had nearly two decades to refine its features and fix bugs. The latest product updates include the Timer page, which shows only active workspace data, and the introduction of an Audit Log for premium users this month, September 2024.

Tip: If you’re interested in learning how to bring structure and execution to your tasks, read this guide on how to manage a project (with a concrete example).

Pricing

There’s a free plan available for teams of up to 5 users. Paid plans start at $10/user/month.

You can get 30 days of Toggl for free with access to all features in a plan.

Rating

Toggl Track gets a 4.7/5 from Capterra and a 4.6/5 on G2.

Check out a comparison between Paymo and Toggl Track on G2.

Clockify is ideal for businesses that need timekeeping software coupled with location tracking. This feature is handy for professionals who often visit different client sites.

For example, a construction manager who needs to document time spent at various construction sites, a home healthcare provider tracking visits to patients’ homes, or a consultant who frequently travels between multiple client offices can significantly benefit from this functionality. 

This also applies to roles such as those involving assessing land for potential contamination, conducting field surveys, or monitoring environmental restoration projects. These responsibilities often necessitate travel to numerous remote locations, which may span diverse geographical areas. 

The ability to track time in conjunction with specific locations allows for accurate documentation and management of time spent on tasks. Moreover, GPS time tracking provides verifiable proof of site visits, which is crucial for maintaining client transparency. It also allows the consultant to review their travel patterns over time, helping in planning more efficient routes or schedules for future site visits, optimizing their workday, and reducing travel-related fatigue.

Many users have shared that Clockify’s interface feels welcoming and easy to navigate, making it quite simple to pick up the basics in just a few hours. This ease of use is particularly valued by those who have had to train their teams, as it means less time spent on lengthy tutorials and more on getting straight to work.

This straightforward approach is a breath of fresh air, especially when compared to more complex platforms like ClickUp, where abundant features and intricate interactions can be overwhelming. For users and teams looking for efficiency without the steep learning curve, Clockify’s simplicity stands out as a practical alternative.

Another noteworthy feature of Clockify is the automated time tracking through its desktop app, which operates in a manner akin to Paymo’s system, as well as a screenshot capture functionality. This feature takes random screenshots roughly every five minutes and is mainly designed to verify work in remote settings. However, it’s important to note that this could lead to concerns regarding privacy and trust, as employees or team members may perceive it as overly intrusive.

Even though Clockify aggressively promotes its free version, the free package has brought significant contention among many users. While helpful, the free version of Clockify includes substantial restrictions on features. Some users have even described the software as a ‘money grab,’ expressing dissatisfaction that all the valuable features are locked behind the highest plan.

Even worse, it looks like the limitations of Clockify’s free version extend beyond the absence of advanced features, leading to a perception mentioned in their user reviews that even basic functionalities are purposefully stripped down to create artificial constraints.

For instance, a significant restriction is the inability to display time tracked in fractions of an hour in the free version. This version only shows time in the format of hours, minutes, and seconds (hh:mm:ss), which can be highly inconvenient for consultants who need to bill or report their time in decimal hours. Better free alternatives would be Toggl Track, TimeCamp, or Paymo.

The lack of transparency builds even further with concerns regarding the cancellation process. Users report difficulties in discontinuing their service, noting that there isn’t an option for online cancellation. Instead, they are required to go through the cumbersome process of emailing the company to initiate cancellation. This cancellation policy exacerbates user discontent, especially among those already disillusioned by the constraints of the free tier.

Clockify, established in 2017, is significantly newer by over a decade compared to veterans like Toggl Track and Paymo. This relative youthfulness accounts for occasional glitches and downtimes noted in user reviews. This month of September introduces auto tracker grouping for Mac and Windows, allowing app breakdown and keyword filtering. Clockify also added budget forecasting and fixed various issues, including time off assignments and custom fields.

Pricing

There’s a free plan that allows time tracking—for Kiosk users, there’s a small fee per month. While the Basic plan starts at $4.99/user/month, it’s aimed at simple administration; for complex time tracking, billing, and scheduling, you’ll have to opt for more expensive plans.

Verdict

Clockify is an established brand – 4.7/5 on Capterra and 4.5/5 on G2. Some users find the UI outdated or unintuitive—the drill-down UI is clunky. Most users find that the free version is good enough but hate the fact that there is no ‘Add Time in Bulk’—at least in the free version. If adding time in bulk is a must, a free option that allows it is Paymo.

TimeDoctor was founded by remote work pioneers Rob Rawson and Liam Martin in 2012. Time Doctor has over 60 employees in 25 different countries.

While not generally advised and often met with strong disapproval from users, there are circumstances where monitoring employees via screenshots or video recordings may be warranted.

This could be relevant in instances of considerable concern regarding an employee’s dedication or when their performance falls markedly short of required standards, leaving termination as the sole alternative. Under these specific conditions, Time Doctor might serve as an appropriate tool.

Despite my firm opposition to such practices and drawing from two decades of experience in time tracking and project management, I’ve never found myself in a situation that warranted such measures.

However, I acknowledge that my experience might not reflect everyone’s reality, and there could be exceptional circumstances where stringent monitoring of employees becomes the only viable course of action. 

Time Doctor offers a feature that captures screenshots of an employee’s screen as frequently as every three minutes. This capability can be crucial for providing oversight in situations that demand close scrutiny, thereby enabling informed evaluations of an employee’s performance or dedication.

Going further, Time Doctor also allows for video screen recordings of an employee’s computer. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who already utilize time-tracking tools with screenshot capabilities but suspect their employees might circumvent this measure.

As one can easily discover through a simple online search, third-party tools like mouse and keyboard emulators hold the capability to manipulate the monitoring system. Yet, altering video recordings poses a markedly more significant challenge.

Recently, TimeDoctor unveiled TimeDoctor 2, adding fresh capabilities for team collaboration, improved web and app usage tracking, internet connectivity insights, and innovative work-life balance metrics. Despite these updates, not all longstanding users have made the switch.

Numerous reviews from TimeDoctor users reveal dissatisfaction with the push towards TimeDoctor 2, particularly after investing considerable time in migrating large teams to the new system. A major point of contention lies in the missing essential functionalities in TimeDoctor 2 that were present in the original iteration. Therefore, if you’re considering moving to Time Doctor 2, you must be cautious and thoroughly evaluate the differences between the two versions.

Concerns have also been voiced about the restricted functionality of Time Doctor’s mobile application. While the desktop version boasts a wide array of features, the mobile counterpart lacks several vital functions that contribute to the effectiveness of Time Doctor.

This limitation poses a significant challenge for users who depend on mobile accessibility for time-tracking. For those who prioritize mobile experience and usability above all and do not require advanced features or a web/desktop interface, Hours Timelord could be a viable alternative. It operates exclusively as a mobile app and may come at a higher cost than more comprehensive tools like Time Doctor or ClickUp. 

Another significant issue with Time Doctor, especially when contrasted with competitors like Replicon, Paymo, and ClickUp, lies in its customer service. Users have reported dissatisfaction with the support received, citing slow response times and a support team that doesn’t meet expectations. This starkly contrasts the exceptional customer service associated with the competitors mentioned above.

Pricing

There’s no free plan available. Paid plans start at a monthly rate of $7/user with silent tracking, unlimited screenshots, activity tracking, and basic reporting.

Rating

With 4.1/5 on G2 and 4.6/5 on Capterra, we added Time Doctor to this ranking because it’s straightforward and fast to create an account and start using it, and it has one of the best personalization options on this list. Likewise, their mobile and desktop apps work well in helping you track time and organize your tasks.

The desktop app performs like the mobile one, but it’s designed only for time tracking and organizing tasks into folders. Also, like many other of the already mentioned best time tracking software, it’s missing the Invoicing module. Here’s how RescueTime fares against Paymo in this Capterra review.

The Viking representative on this list, Timely has 60 employees working in 20 countries who are self-declared as “obsessed with time.” They aim to make the working day as productive as possible and unlock the 25th hour.

Timely is the ideal timekeeping solution for employees navigating the complexities of context shifting in their work. Context shifting involves frequently transitioning between different tasks or focus areas, a common scenario in consulting that can make time tracking and management particularly challenging. For instance, a consultant might dedicate an hour to one project, switch to a meeting, and return to the original project or pivot to an entirely different task.

Despite belonging to the same workday, these activities don’t form a continuous, linear progression but rather a series of disjointed segments. Timely excels in managing this type of work because it adeptly records and categorizes the segmented nature of these tasks. It enables consultants to accurately monitor the array of activities and the time allocated to each, providing clarity and control, even in the face of frequent context shifts.

This is achieved through the Timely Memory app, which tracks all activities in the background. Then, the Memory AI technology tries to assign the recorded activities to the appropriate projects and auto-generates time entry drafts. This AI system adapts to your logging habits over time, enhancing its ability to categorize your activities precisely. Each time you log an entry using tracked memories, the AI refines its understanding, making future draft entries more precise. Over time, this results in a more automated and accurate tracking process, filling your Hours tab with entries effortlessly. 

It’s important to highlight that Timely, along with Replicon and RescueTime, represents one of the pioneering time-tracking software solutions incorporating AI to refine the time-tracking process. Although these technologies are still in the early stages of development, they hold significant potential for the future.

Another noteworthy fact is that Timely, like Paymo, maintains a firm stance against surveillance practices, setting it apart from counterparts like Time Doctor, WebWork, and Hubstaff.

The platform refrains from invasive measures such as capturing employee screenshots, logging keystrokes, or other intrusive monitoring forms. Instead, Timely prioritizes the privacy and independence of its users, aiming to track productivity and work tasks in a manner that respects individual privacy and avoids overstepping personal boundaries.

Timely encounters certain hurdles with its automatic time-tracking feature, mainly when manual tracking might be more straightforward. For example, in screen-sharing sessions within meetings, it only logs the time spent in the foreground application, overlooking the broader context of the meeting.

In the case of emails, the system aggregates all the time spent in email platforms into one lump sum rather than breaking it down by individual email interactions, potentially obscuring the granularity of email activities.

Timely’s team, comprised of 60 individuals across 20 countries, is united by a shared passion for time optimization, striving to enhance daily productivity and “unlock the 25th hour.” With its roots in Norway and India, the company was established by Mathias Mikkelsen and has successfully secured $20 million in funding.

Recent developments on their roadmap include features like automatic time tracking for Chrome, integration with MS Teams, and advanced functionalities for tracking task costs, profitability, and historical rates.

Regarding pricing, Timely positions itself at the higher end of the spectrum, providing only a 14-day free trial without an extended free version for comprehensive testing. This strategy has prompted questions about its overall value, especially given the emphasis on its AI features.

A two-week period may not suffice for users to fully acclimate the AI to their specific needs and workflows, raising concerns about the adequacy of this trial period for informed decision-making before any financial investment.

Pricing

There’s no free plan—subscriptions start at $11/user/month with limitations: 50 projects and three teams. (Custom packages for over 25 people apply.)

Rating

With a few hundred reviews, Timely scores 4.8/5 on G2 and 4.7/5 on Capterra.

Learn more about why automatic time tracking is a must-have for your tool.

Harvest is a simple time-tracking tool that bundles timekeeping and invoices under the same roof. It connects both features so you can be paid based on the tracked time entries without exporting data to another system.

For teams already utilizing project management tools such as Asana, Basecamp, or Trello, which may lack comprehensive time-tracking features, Harvest presents an ideal addition to integrate time tracking into your existing workflow. Known for its user-friendly interface and reliable support, Harvest simplifies the time-tracking process. It resembles Paymo, providing effective time management and invoicing functionalities, making it a versatile tool for enhancing project oversight and financial administration.

While Harvest excels in time tracking and invoicing, it falls short in offering a comprehensive suite of task and project management features found in other tools.

Consequently, it may not be the best standalone choice for teams without an existing project management system, even though it includes some fundamental project management capabilities.

Users have reported that managing projects in Harvest can be challenging and sometimes frustrating. The platform primarily concentrates on time tracking, offering limited functionalities beyond this scope. This focused approach may hinder its utility for teams needing a broader, more integrated project management solution.

Although Harvest emphasizes time tracking, its pricing aligns with or surpasses that of platforms like ClickUp or Paymo, which provide extensive project management functionalities. This pricing model may not appeal to users looking for a broader range of features in addition to time and expense tracking.

This could be a considerable limitation for small businesses searching for a tool that tracks time and offers a comprehensive suite for managing projects, finances, and business opportunities.

Feedback has also highlighted issues with the performance and design of the Harvest website. It is seen as less responsive and dated in appearance relative to comparable platforms. This antiquated aesthetic and the associated performance challenges detract from the user experience, especially given the expectations for speed and contemporary design in web applications, particularly those positioned at a higher price point.

Launched in 2006, close to contemporaries like TimeCamp or Paymo, Harvest originated as a solution crafted by two designers to foster the growth of their own business. Despite its early entry into the market, it hasn’t aged as gracefully or remained as competitive as some of its longstanding peers.

Pricing

There’s a free plan available: unlimited invoices and clients for one user and two projects maximum. Its paid plan costs $12/user/month.

You’ll have to pay separately for the scheduling feature, Harvest Forecast ($5/month, unlimited users and projects).

Rating

Harvest is one of those time-tracking solutions that most users have a reasonable opinion about since the tool got a 4.5/5 on Capterra and 4.3/5 on G2.

See how Harvest fares against Paymo in terms of features and user reviews.

RescueTime was launched in 2007 by Brian Fioca, Tony Wright, and Mark Wolgemuth in Seattle. In January 2008, they were funded by Y Combinator and got additional Series A Financing from True Ventures that September.

Among all the web-based time management tools, this employee time tracking software offers a different approach, promoting trust and encouraging the fair use of creative solutions to solve work-related problems. Also, RescueTime advocates for the four-day workweek.

RescueTime emerges as an up-and-coming tool in the realm of time tracking, especially with its significant emphasis on automated time-tracking features. It marries the convenience of automatically recording activities across applications and websites with the cutting-edge Timesheets AI, which is still in beta.

This artificial intelligence system tries to distribute the captured data across user-generated projects, facilitating daily timesheets’ rapid and accurate completion.

It’s important to know that the Timesheets AI feature of RescueTime is in its developing phase and is available only as a beta version. This early stage might bring about complications for some users, stemming from the expected glitches and constrained functionalities typical of beta iterations.

Yet, suppose RescueTime can effectively refine and advance this feature to a level that becomes both advantageous and dependable. In that case, it can ascend significantly in the rankings within the time-tracking software industry. 

Currently, three key players—Timely, RescueTime, and Replicon—are leveraging AI to enhance the time-tracking process, each aiming to automate timesheet completion and minimize manual input, a task known for being time-consuming.

While a detailed comparison of these AI features is pending due to the extensive research and analysis required, it’s on the agenda for a forthcoming update. For those captivated by the current surge in AI innovations, personally testing these platforms is advisable to quickly assess their effectiveness and discern whether they merely capitalize on AI as a marketing gimmick or genuinely offer substantial benefits.

RescueTime goes beyond just automatical time tracking; it has features that are great for individuals who want to boost their productivity. It’s like having a personal coach that helps you better manage your time by giving you a detailed look at your habits and how they affect your work. Users really like how RescueTime helps them see exactly where their time goes and gives them tips to work smarter.

This awareness is especially beneficial for those who tend to get distracted easily. For instance, it’s common to drift off into unrelated tasks while researching. The FocusTime feature in RescueTime has been highlighted for its effectiveness in making users more conscious of when they wander off task, helping them stay focused and on track with their intended activities.

There’s growing concern about the infrequency of significant updates to RescueTime, especially compared to the continuous enhancements seen in platforms like Paymo and ClickUp. This has led to perceptions of RescueTime’s interface as somewhat outdated. A particular point of critique involves the tool’s handling of certain work-related activities.

For example, tasks that necessitate visiting e-commerce or entertainment sites might lead RescueTime to mistakenly deem this essential activity unproductive, thus unfairly lowering the perceived productivity levels.

This analytical oversight could distort the true picture of one’s productivity, underscoring the importance for RescueTime to distinguish between professional and personal online activities more accurately.

Pricing

There is a free plan available, which includes time tracking, weekly email reports, and a 3-month data history; a premium plan is available for $12/user/month. RescueTime offers a separate team plan that starts at $6 per person per month, with additional time-management training available for $99 per person.

You need a credit card to sign up.

Rating

There aren’t many reviews for you to judge the tool: 4.1/5 from 86 reviews on G2 and 4.6/5 from 132 reviews on Capterra.

RescueTime is more of a productivity tool rather than a project management software: it does not include an Invoicing module, Timesheet approval system, or Resource scheduling. Instead, it focuses on goal setting and progress tracking, breaking down timestamps into productive and unproductive activities by the app. To see how it differs from Paymo’s automatic time tracker, check out G2’s comparison of Paymo vs. RescueTime.

TimeCamp, a web-based time-tracking software, was established in 2009 by Kamil Rudnicki, a 21-year-old student at that time. Asseco Poland and Venture Incubator financed Time Solutions in 2011, growing to a 30+ employee roster in offices in Los Angeles and Poland.

TimeCamp stands out as an ideal timekeeping solution for individuals venturing into time tracking for the first time and looking for a cost-free solution. While Paymo provides a free version indefinitely, TimeCamp’s free tier is notably broader. Furthermore, TimeCamp is recognized as one of the most budget-friendly choices available in the market.

Regarding functionality, TimeCamp is on par with Paymo, notably offering the essential feature of automatic time tracking. Thus, if Paymo doesn’t align with your requirements or expectations, TimeCamp could be a fitting alternative.

However, it’s crucial to know that TimeCamp’s automatic time-tracking capabilities are unavailable in the free or basic paid tiers. Remember this when selecting a plan, as access to these features could be critical for thorough time management and tracking efforts.

TimeCamp ranks as one of the most economical choices, with its most basic package beginning at $2.99 per user, per month. While the features at this entry-level price are somewhat restricted, they still surpass what many competitors offer.

For most small businesses, the package priced at $4.99 should suffice, with its primary constraint being the allowance for only a single integration with another tool.

The capability for employee screenshots is reserved for the premium package, which costs $7.99, but for those in need of more sophisticated employee monitoring functionalities, alternatives like TimeDoctor or Hubstaff might be more suitable.

TimeCamp stands out for its user-friendliness, from initial setup to everyday usage, offering consultants a seamless way to log time and generate reports, thereby enhancing their efficiency.

Its integration with various external tools further streamlines workflows, and its intuitively designed timesheet functionalities allow consultants to minimize time spent on administrative tasks.

However, users should note potential challenges with TimeCamp, including occasional bugs that can disrupt task submissions or time entry edits. Issues such as system lag when moving or deleting time entries, particularly with bulk actions, have been observed.

New users may also encounter a learning curve, especially with setting up invoices and client selection, which can demand additional time and patience to master. Differences in user experience between the desktop application and the Google Chrome extension have also been highlighted, with some finding the desktop version cumbersome compared to the more streamlined Chrome extension or web version.

Pricing

There is a free plan which only includes time tracking and limited tasks. Paid plans, starting at $3.99/user/month, include attendance, overtime tracking, billable time, budgets, and estimates.

Get the free plan if you simply need to keep track of time—invoicing is included only in the Pro plan for $10.99/user/month.

You can access a 50% discount if you’re a nonprofit organization, university, or school.

Rating

TimeCamp as a time clock software scores 4.7/5 on G2 and 4.7/5 on Capterra.

Compare TimeCamp’s time tracking features to Paymo’s in G2’s product review.

Everhour was founded in 2015 by Mike Kulakov and Yury Tolochko, initially named Weavora Consulting LLC, a web development company from Minsk, Belarus. It is currently headquartered in Limassol, Cyprus.

For those needing time-tracking software with an advanced reporting system and robust integration capabilities with popular project management tools like Asana, Jira, Notion, Trello, Basecamp, or ClickUp, Everhour is the ideal choice. Its compatibility with these platforms enriches the time-tracking experience, delivering advanced reporting functionalities essential for comprehensive project insights.

For example, if you’re already using Basecamp, which excels in communication features but lacks time tracking capabilities, then integrating Everhour can effectively enhance its functionality by adding time tracking.

Everhour shares many similarities with Harvest regarding features, so if Harvest doesn’t quite meet your preferences, Everhour could be a worthy alternative to explore. Many users commend Everhour for its advanced reporting system.

However, it’s worth noting that it falls short in providing visual representations such as charts and graphs, an area with room for improvement.

Additionally, Everhour’s support team receives considerable praise in user reviews for their responsiveness and helpfulness.

A limitation of Everhour is its lack of comprehensive project management features, particularly the more sophisticated ones. For those requiring more than just time tracking, it’s advisable to pair Everhour with a robust project management tool like Asana, Jira, Notion, or ClickUp. This need for an additional tool, combined with Everhour’s higher per-user cost, currently at $8.50, can make it a pricier option.

The cost factor becomes even more pronounced when considering that more affordable alternatives, such as Paymo, offer advanced project management functionalities and time tracking. Consequently, Everhour is most suitable for users who already rely on project management software, are unwilling to part ways with it, and are looking to enhance it with time tracking, reporting, and invoicing capabilities despite the higher price. 

The pricing concerns are further exacerbated when customers discover that the minimum purchase package requires payment for five seats, with no option to buy fewer, which means you cannot start with a smaller commitment to test the platform and then scale up; the initial investment mandates a minimum of 5 seats right from the outset.

Another point to consider is that some users have reported a steeper learning curve with Everhour, mentioning that becoming familiar with the interface might require some time. However, it’s worth noting that, in my own experience, I did not encounter this issue. Additionally, there have been user complaints regarding limited customization options within Everhour. Specifically, some users have expressed a desire for greater control over the presentation of their data, wishing for more flexibility in how information is organized and displayed within the platform.

As I mentioned, Everhour was established in 2015, positioned in the mid-range among its competitors in terms of market presence. It doesn’t have the longstanding history of veterans like Toggl or Paymo, which have been around for roughly twice as long, yet it’s not as new to the scene as Time Analytics, which debuted in 2019.

Recent enhancements to Everhour include the implementation of Single Sign-On (SSO), automated team scheduling aligned with task dates, and refined control over user access and administrative permissions.

Additionally, the platform has broadened its utility with new integrations with Notion and Todoist. An overall update to the user interface and the ability to track time independently of tasks mark significant strides in Everhour’s evolution.

Pricing

There’s a free plan available that includes time tracking. Paid plans start at $6/user/month for a minimum of 5 seats and can be integrated with other software, e.g., Trello, Notion, Miro, Slack, Xero, etc.

Rating

With under 200 reviews, Everhour scores 4.7/5 on Capterra and 4.7/5 on G2. Everhour natively integrates with project management software and other digital tools—though adopting another software is costly and time-consuming. It’s better to opt for project management, including time tracking than vice versa. Compare Everhour with Paymo to help you choose the better fit for your business needs.

Timeular is marketed toward software houses, design & marketing agencies, architect’s firms, lawyer’s practices, and freelancers. It’s another simple time-tracking app that offers insights, analytics, and reporting. They also have invoicing features and billable hour tracking.

They offer a physical time-tracking device that’s pretty unique. ZEIº looks like a die (an 8-sided polygon) that users can personalize, connect, and use to keep track of their time.

Timeular stands out with its innovative approach to time tracking, featuring a physical device that resembles an eight-sided die. Each side of this polygon can be designated for a specific activity. To track time, you simply flip the device so the relevant side is up and pair it with your computer or smartphone via Bluetooth, and it automatically begins recording time in the background.

Transitioning between tasks is as easy as flipping the device to the side, representing your next activity. This tactile method eliminates the need to manually start timers, offering a refreshing alternative to conventional automatic time tracking found in tools like Paymo or Timecamp and even those employing AI for task-timesheet matching, such as Timely, RescueTime, or Replicon.

Timeular proves particularly beneficial for individuals who frequently alternate between tasks, making it ideal for roles characterized by high levels of context-shifting. In this aspect, it could serve as a compelling alternative to Timely, which addresses the same challenge through AI-driven solutions.

If the AI’s accuracy matching applications tracked on your desktop to different tasks falls short of expectations, Timeular offers a tangible and intuitive option. Additionally, for those who often overlook starting a timer in their time-tracking software, a physical device like Timeular can serve as a tangible reminder, aiding in forming consistent tracking habits.

The intuitive nature of Timeular’s physical device sets it apart from traditional time-tracking tools; a sentiment echoed in numerous user reviews that commend its tangible interface.

However, it’s evident that this method may not suit everyone. Just as one might forget to initiate a timer from a browser toolbar, it’s equally possible to overlook rotating the Timeular device to switch activities.

Timeular is notably distinguished by its responsive support team, which is commendably proactive in addressing user concerns and exploring solutions for features not currently available within the product. However, the platform’s concentrated emphasis on time tracking presents a double-edged sword.

On one hand, this focused approach allows for significant enhancements in the time-tracking process itself. On the other hand, it necessitates users to rely on external tools for functionalities not encompassed within the app, highlighting a potential area for expansion.

Furthermore, the limited range of integrations with other products has been a point of contention among users, suggesting that broadening these connections could greatly enrich the platform’s utility and user experience.

Including a physical device in Timeular’s setup introduces unique challenges not encountered by other time-tracking solutions, such as connectivity issues. Some users have reported difficulties maintaining a stable connection with the device.

Additionally, the device’s eight-sided design, while innovative, may pose limitations for project managers engaged in extensive and multifaceted operations, where the need to track a greater variety of tasks exceeds the device’s capacity.

The pricing for Timeular is also higher, primarily due to the cost associated with the physical device. However, as a compensatory offer, users are granted two months of free access to the platform upon purchasing the device.

Pricing

There’s no free plan available; paid plans start at €8/user/month. The Timeular Tracker costs €57.50 (excl. taxes) and works with any active subscription.

Verdict

Timeular scores 4.5/5 on G2 and 4.6/5 on Capterra. I give you that the device is unique since it’s a die you can “play” with. But you’ll have to purchase the device, maintain it, and pay for the monthly subscription. As one user put it, “The tracker is only as good as the person using it,” since you have to stay on top of your tasks, flip the die, and remember to switch between tasks. If you want to simply leave the stopwatch running and cherry-pick timestamps to link them to task entries, try the Agenda view in Paymo Track.

Tick (formerly TickSpot) is a simple time-tracking app for desktop, mobile, plus a Chrome extension. It isn’t marketed towards a specific industry, but it’s ideal for freelancers who track billables. Tick offers minimal project management features mainly to make time tracking easier, such as setting up projects and tasks. It has limited functionalities when it comes to complex projects or teams.

Tick stands out as an attractive choice for freelancers focused on a single project, primarily because it offers a free tier for such scenarios. Unlike the typical per-user-per-month pricing model in many time-tracking tools, Tick’s unique pricing structure is based on the number of projects. This approach makes it exceptionally cost-effective for individuals or teams concentrating on just one project.

However, it’s worth noting that the pricing jumps significantly to $19 per month for managing up to 10 projects, a rate comparable to a 4-5 user plan in other software with average market pricing. Despite this, Tick can be highly beneficial for larger teams involved in a limited number of projects, providing a cost-effective solution under those specific conditions.

Tick is often noted for its user-friendly design and responsive support team in user feedback. Additionally, it features automated time tracking and supports a wide array of integrations, around 700 in total, including connectivity with the Apple Watch and compatibility with project management and accounting tools like Basecamp and QuickBooks.

Among the criticisms, users have pointed out issues with functionality errors, inaccurate tracking, and slow loading speeds. There are also complaints about the user interface (UI) being outdated, suggesting that it could benefit from a modern overhaul to enhance user experience and aesthetics.

Pricing

There’s a free plan available with one project and integrates with Basecamp. Paid plans start at $19/month for 10 projects and unlimited people.

Verdict

Although Tick scores 4.5/5 on Capterra, there’s no information on any new updates, and it seems like it is lagging behind its competitors.

Founded in 2012 by Dave Nevogt and Jared Brown, today Hubstaff employs more than 90 people worldwide. Dave Nevogt and Jared Brown founded Hubstaff after hiring freelancers and wanted a better way to manage them. Nevogt was previously the founder of McCordsville-based Innovative Solutions Inc, while Brown had a background as a developer. Hubstaff is suitable for teams in e-commerce who want to see what everyone is working on—screenshots included.

Hubstaff sets itself apart from other time-tracking solutions by focusing on detailed employee monitoring, encompassing screenshots, URL tracking, and mouse and keyboard activity analysis to oversee and manage work engagement and productivity. Hubstaff tracks your activity by checking if you’re using your keyboard and mouse within 10-minute periods.

For example, if you’re active for half of that time, your activity rate is 50%. Hubstaff doesn’t record what keys you press, just if you’re active. It also has a feature to alert you if you’re not moving your mouse or typing for a while to help keep your timesheets accurate.

You can choose to get these reminders after 5, 10, or 20 minutes or not at all. If you get an alert and you’ve been idle, you can decide whether to keep tracking time, stop the timer, or delete the time when you weren’t active.

Hubstaff includes employee monitoring, Geofencing, scheduling, work management, and basic project management features. Still, these might not be as unique or advanced as those offered by similar tools in the market.

Hubstaff proves valuable in scenarios requiring intensive oversight, such as when employee performance is in question and could impact business continuity, in roles with high digital interaction where activity tracking aligns with productivity measures, or when addressing significant performance variances among employees.

Despite privacy considerations, the detailed insights provided by Hubstaff can be critical for informed decision-making, understanding productivity challenges, and ensuring business or performance integrity.

Hubstaff’s monitoring approach, which primarily values keyboard and mouse activity, has led to user dissatisfaction, particularly in roles where work activities, like attending lengthy meetings, don’t involve constant physical interaction with the computer. This can result in productive tasks being undervalued, as the system may not recognize them as significant contributions.

One user remarks, “It’s terrible being monitored by mouse and keyboard usage for 8+ hours a day. Your productivity isn’t measured by those metrics.” Another user concludes that such micromanagement in terms of time tracking “ends up being distracting and fosters an unhealthy urgency mindset.”

Additionally, Hubstaff’s system may not fully capture the essence of work involving less computer interaction, such as reading or learning, posing challenges in roles where research and information absorption are crucial. Concerns about Hubstaff’s pricing structure and the inclusivity of advanced features in its more affordable packages have been raised, particularly by small teams, including bugs and a reporting system that may not meet user expectations for ease and efficiency.

Hubstaff competes with similar tools such as Clockify, TimeDoctor, and WebWork in the realm of time tracking and productivity monitoring. Unlike its competitors, Hubstaff places a greater emphasis on supervising employees. When directly comparing Hubstaff with alternatives such as Clockify, it emerges that Hubstaff might not capture a significant portion of work time, with potential gaps of 20-30%.

This shortfall is especially noticeable in key professional activities like video conferences and training sessions, which are pivotal for development and collaboration. Hubstaff may not fully record such essential tasks in various professional settings, as its tracking primarily focuses on active computer use, such as keyboard strokes and mouse movements.

Pricing

Hubstaff is free for one user but has its limitations. The starter plan ($7/user/month) needs a minimum of 2 users and is time-tracking oriented, while other plans include task management and reporting add-ons with a maximum of 200 users. All plans change their pricing depending on the number of users chosen from the scale bar.

Verdict

Hubstaff has a monitoring system that takes screenshots of desktops to ensure work is delivered and to increase accountability. If close monitoring is what you need, the Hubstaff time tracking tool scores 4.3/5 on G2 and 4.6/5 on Capterra. Clients and supervisors can be invited for free and don’t count as paying users—“Guests” can also be invited in Paymo and not count as paying users, and you can set visibility layers for each and one of them.

Deputy is a time-tracking tool focused on employee scheduling, emphasizing labor compliance features and adherence to fair workweek laws. It seamlessly integrates with payroll, POS, and HR systems and includes a time clock app for comprehensive workforce management.

Users particularly appreciate Deputy’s straightforward scheduling, time-off requests, and clock-in/out processes. The timekeeping software enhances accessibility, making it convenient for both managers and employees to stay connected and informed.

The platform excels in efficient schedule distribution, timely team notifications for rostering, and user-friendly interfaces for tracking hours, breaks, and shift reminders. Its rostering and leave request functionalities are streamlined, with users enjoying the ability to create schedule templates and view their shifts well in advance.

Deputy’s communication tools, such as the ability to send notes to the entire team and its practical features, significantly reduce managers’ time on rostering and shift tracking, making it a highly valued tool in workforce management.

Based on user reviews, it appears that not only managers but also staff members prefer Deputy over other competing apps. The app’s customer support is frequently commended for its effectiveness, though it’s worth noting that live customer support, once available, is no longer an option.

Some drawbacks of Deputy include its color scheme, which users find challenging to navigate. Additionally, manually entering timesheets is inconvenient when staff forget to clock in. While Deputy’s flexible pricing is appreciated, the full utilization of its SMS features can be expensive.

The platform’s task management capabilities also fall short, particularly in finding tasks within the app at the role level. Users have also noted occasional slow loading speeds, which, although infrequent, are noticeable.

Pricing

There’s no free plan available. Both Time & Attendance and Scheduling plans start at $4.50/user/month.

Verdict

If shift management is what you need in time tracking, Deputy is worth considering. Deputy remains favored for its seamless payroll integrations and reliable geofencing features, adding to its appeal in workforce management.

TrackingTime was founded in 2012 by Eric Tulle, Diego Wyllie, and Leonardo Custer and received seed capital from Enzyme VC, one of the top VC firms in Latin America. Currently, the company is headquartered in the US and has other locations in Buenos Aires and Munich. They regard time as the most valuable asset of a company. For this reason, the TrackingTime team’s primary goal is to empower companies to manage their most vital resource effectively.

If you or your team often overlook time tracking due to forgetting to start the timer, TrackingTime might be the perfect fix. It stands out in the time tracking and project management space with two key features aimed at solving this issue. The first is an automatic reminder system that works hand in hand with a feature that compares scheduled work hours with actual logged-in hours for each team member.

This combination provides more than just regular reminders, which can sometimes be overlooked because they’re repetitive. You’ll receive reminders that are not only timely but also relevant, popping up exactly when they’re needed to ensure they catch your attention.

A standout feature of TrackingTime is its seamless integration with a wide array of applications. It smartly embeds a ‘play’ button alongside tasks in platforms like Asana or adjacent to email titles in Gmail, enabling users to effortlessly initiate the timer and track their work hours directly within these apps.

Another defining characteristic of TrackingTime is its exceptional support team. This isn’t a point I’d emphasize for merely good or great support; it’s based on a thorough analysis of over 50 project management and time-tracking tools alongside extensive customer feedback.

Their support stands out as one of the best, on par with or even surpassing industry leaders renowned for top-tier customer service, such as Beebole, Paymo, Harvest, ClickUp, Timely, and Replicon. This level of support sharply contrasts with that of competitors like TimeDoctor, Wrike, or Zoho, where the support experience falls short of these high standards.

For those who often forget to track time, this tool is particularly useful for both individuals and teams, serving as a stopgap until better time-tracking habits are formed. Users highly value its app integrations, effective reminder system, and supportive customer service. The desktop app is acclaimed for its automatic tracking and fluid task transitions.

There’s an apparent demand for expanded integration capabilities, including with accounting software, Microsoft Office tools like Outlook, and other project management platforms like Smartsheets.

Many users suggest that this timekeeping software could be more precise and useful, and some feel the pricing is a bit steep, especially when considering the somewhat restricted features of the free version. There have been a few bug reports, but nothing that seriously hinders the software’s overall performance.

Despite these points, TrackingTime is still seen as a solid choice for time tracking. Although it offers some project management capabilities, many users find it best suited for time tracking, often using it in conjunction with other project management tools similar to competitors like Harvest and Everhour.

Pricing

There’s a free plan for task and time-tracking for up to three users. Monthly paid plans start at $7/user/month for advanced reporting and time management. Refunds and discounts for academic/nonprofit organizations apply.

Verdict

This simple time-tracking software has the fewest reviews from any we’ve analyzed so far: 4.2/5 from 78 reviews on G2 and 4.6/5 from 39 reviews on Capterra.

We’ll place this time logging software in our list for great responsive UI and time tracker portability. From the mobile app, you’ll be able to add tasks, projects, and time entries or start tracking time by clicking on an existing task. Also, you can even see today’s activity and manage all of your projects. Yet, an approval system feature would be a bonus that could bring more users.

See how TrackingTime compares with Paymo in terms of time tracking top features.

Homebase provides employee scheduling, time clocks, payroll, team communication, hiring, onboarding, and compliance. Their product is aimed at hourly teams, including restaurants, retail, healthcare, beauty, home and repair, and professional services businesses. Homebase’s agenda is to minimize time theft and control labor costs.

Homebase stands out primarily as an employee scheduling platform, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious small businesses. It simplifies creating staff schedules, managing clock-ins/outs, processing time cards, and facilitating communication across the organization.

Users highly value its ability to easily duplicate weekly schedules and the effective communication tool that doesn’t require employees to share personal contact information. Additionally, the platform is commended for its group announcement capabilities, shift reminders, and timely notifications for late arrivals.

Homebase and Deputy share many similarities, but Homebase caters specifically to smaller, more budget-conscious businesses. The key distinction lies in their pricing models: Deputy opts for a per-user, per-month fee, whereas Homebase offers flat-rate pricing based on location and features included.

This approach can be particularly beneficial for smaller teams with limited budgets who can manage with fewer features, as well as for larger teams that don’t require advanced options.

However, a common concern among Homebase users is how features are allocated across different pricing tiers, which can become significantly costlier. This issue is especially pronounced when only one feature from a higher-priced package is needed.

The most significant drawback of Homebase, as highlighted by numerous user reviews, centers on its pricing and marketing practices. Homebase has faced criticism for aggressively marketing the “cash out” cash advance program. This program is frequently promoted to the workforce, with new hires often being the primary target.

A user stated in their review, “They also keep spamming new employees with their cash out program, and several of them were “forced” to enroll, believing they had to get paid.” Other users express frustration with the platform’s tendency to increase prices without adding new features.

Pricing

Homebase is rare in the industry by paying per location. So, there’s a free plan available for 1 location with unlimited employees, time clocks, and timesheets—otherwise, plans start at $24.95/location/month. There’s another $39 monthly base fee plus $6/user/month for payroll.

Verdict

Homebase is strong on GPS tracking and image verification features in its mobile app for off-site teams. There’s not much information on any recent updates; it seems they are mainly aimed at hospitality and offsite companies that need employees to clock in and out.

Insightful.io (formerly Workpuls) was founded by Ivan Petrović in 2016 and is, at its core, an employee monitoring software with automatic time-tracking features that let employers and managers monitor how their team members spend time on their computers at work.

Insightful is a time tracking and performance analysis tool tailored for large enterprise teams, offering valuable insights for managers focused on enhancing employee efficiency and optimizing work patterns. It functions similarly to website analytics software but is designed for team productivity. It is similar to Hubstaff in features like calculating productivity scores and identifying unproductive time.

The app goes beyond by capturing random screenshots, monitoring app and website usage, and delivering comprehensive reports at the team or company level, all with the capability to operate in stealth mode, hidden from employees. However, I strongly oppose the stealth feature due to privacy concerns, significantly impacting its ranking on this list.

Insightful shares some common challenges with Hubstaff, particularly in tracking idle time, which may be inaccurately flagged as idle after just a short three-minute break, potentially skewing the data over time.

Unlike some competitors, such as TimeDoctor, Insightful lacks video recording capabilities, which could be seen as a limitation depending on user needs.

Additionally, the application has challenges with time zone management, which may present difficulties for teams spread across various time zones, potentially resulting in discrepancies and coordination challenges.

Pricing

There’s no free plan available: plans start at $8/user/month, and all plans feature real-time monitoring, activities tracking, screenshots, and stealth mode.

Verdict

Should you use Insightful.io as a freelancer? If you like extreme accountability, by all means. You know your work patterns, and you’ll make the most sense of the tracked data. If not, there are better options on the market without needing a “stealth mode,” e.g., Paymo Track for automatic time tracking.

ClickUp stands out as an ideal option for teams with specialized time-tracking needs that standard tools don’t easily accommodate. Its exceptional customizability enables users to modify the platform to suit a wide array of requirements. While ClickUp boasts an impressive range of features surpassing many competitors, this extensive variety can also introduce complexities.

Teams with intricate project demands may value the adaptability ClickUp offers, but smaller businesses or individuals focused on straightforward time-tracking tasks might find the plethora of options and occasional glitches more hindering than helpful, complicating their workflow instead of streamlining it.

ClickUp boasts a support team that rivals top competitors like Timely, Paymo, Harvest, and Everhour, offering significantly more responsive assistance compared to TimeDoctor or Zoho. The platform is known for its advanced automation capabilities and is continually being updated and improved.

However, its complexity brings certain drawbacks that might be avoidable for those who don’t require such intricate features.

Pricing

There is a free plan available with limitations. Paid plans start at $7/user/month if paid yearly.

Verdict

Learning and mastering ClickUp can be daunting due to its steep learning curve, frequent bugs, UI issues, occasional downtime, and slow performance. These challenges are often the trade-off for adding complexity, yet the ClickUp team is dedicated to resolving these issues promptly.

Ultimately, if your needs are highly specific and you’ve struggled to find a suitable solution elsewhere, ClickUp is worth considering.

HourStack is a time-tracking and scheduling tool good for teams of all sizes. It offers different views, like a drag-and-drop Calendar, allowing you to pull reports and schedule tasks. It is a reasonably typical time-tracking software equipped with solid task management capabilities.

HourStack shares many similarities with other time-tracking tools, but what distinguishes it is its unique approach to displaying time entries and managing tasks, particularly its importing functionalities. It offers decent integration options, with Asana being one of the critical integrations highlighted.

Additionally, HourStack is often commended for its user-friendly and intuitive interface. It’s suitable for managers who need to set custom permissions. As for recent updates and improvements, HourStack introduced its v3.0, which now includes task management and scheduling. Recently, HourStack rolled out a dark mode.

When comparing HourStack to its competitors, several key drawbacks and concerns become apparent. Notably, HourStack is positioned at the higher end of the pricing spectrum, charging $12 per month for personal use and $15 per user per month for team members, which some users may consider expensive.

Additionally, when juxtaposed with competitors like ClickUp or Paymo, HourStack’s feature set appears somewhat restricted. For instance, despite its premium pricing, HourStack lacks invoicing capabilities—a feature that Paymo includes even within its free tier. Furthermore, HourStack does not offer Gantt chart functionality or automated time tracking, which are standard features in some other tools.

Moreover, it does not incorporate AI-enhanced features for time tracking, as seen in solutions like Timely, Replicon, or RescueTime, which may enhance productivity and efficiency for users seeking advanced time management tools.

Pricing

There’s no free plan; there’s a paid plan at $12/month for a single user and a team plan for $15/user/month, which some users find expensive in contrast to other products on the market.

Verdict

HourStack scores 4.8/5 on Capterra out of 13 reviews, so there might not be enough user review data to paint a vivid picture of its suitability for you. You may try it out for 30 days or look further.

MyHours, owned by Spica, was founded in 2002 and is based in Slovenia, Ljubljana. It is a time-tracking software designed for freelancers and organizations that want to monitor employee working hours, track time, manage billing, and organize their work. MyHours allows you to track time across multiple devices – iOS and Android apps are free. It has complex reporting and a straightforward time-tracking app.

My Hours is one of the more user-friendly time-tracking tools on the market, drawing comparisons to Paymo and TimeCamp due to its intuitive design. Its simplicity and clean user interface are frequently praised by users, who appreciate the minimalistic approach that reduces distractions.

This tool stands out for its straightforwardness, effectively removing any unnecessary complications or additional steps in the time-tracking process. If, so far, you haven’t found time-tracking software that feels right and everything seems overly complicated, then it might be worth giving My Hours a try.

Regarding pricing, My Hours is competitively placed, offering one of the more affordable solutions available, though it is not the cheapest option. The availability of a compelling free package further enhances its attractiveness to potential users.

However, compared with competitors such as Paymo, My Hours might find an advantage in expanding its feature set, particularly in reporting and invoicing. ClickUp, on the other hand, occupies the opposite end of the spectrum with its abundance of features and customization options, which can overwhelm many users and present a steep learning curve.

Some users have expressed concerns regarding integrations with My Hours. Despite these potential improvement areas, My Hours stands out as a strong contender in the time-tracking software market, especially for those who value simplicity and cost-effectiveness.

Pricing

There’s a free plan available that offers time tracking with some limitations (e.g., you cannot add time in bulk or delete time logs) and unlimited team members and projects. The paid plan costs $9/user/month.

Verdict

MyHour scores 4.8/5 on Capterra and is a popular choice for freelancers who need a free time tracking tool. However, you’ll have to opt for a paid plan to generate client invoices. In contrast, you may invoice clients for free with Paymo. MyHours is a privacy-friendly tool just like Paymo, where users can rest assured of their private data—there’s no screen monitoring or surveillance.

Replicon is a cloud-based time tracking and project management software for freelancers and businesses focusing on billing, payroll, and compliance. It seems to be one of the platforms geared for managers of mid-size to large teams who love to micromanage or for HR departments with complex payroll features.

Replicon sets itself apart in the time-tracking landscape by integrating AI technology, which smartly gathers data to auto-populate timesheets. This innovative feature is designed to streamline the entire process, making timesheet review and submission effortless for both individuals and teams.

On a more concrete note, Replicon’s ZeroTime feature is designed to directly confront the problem of lost billable hours due to administrative tasks, a concern for many businesses. Employing AI to auto-fill timesheets effectively mitigates the time lost in manual entry, preparing the sheets for prompt review and submission. This not only recuperates lost billing time but also enhances operational efficiency, significantly diminishing the administrative load on both employees and management.

Besides its AI-based auto time-tracking, which analyzes and optimizes user data, Replicon’s feature highlight is its GPS time tracking. Another major product update was its AI-enabled timesheets, in which your chat prompts turn into timesheets, making work easier.

While Replicon boasts a range of features, users should be prepared to invest time in learning how to navigate its platform. Feedback indicates that the interface may feel somewhat unwieldy, with tasks often requiring more mouse clicks than might seem necessary, leading to a potentially cumbersome experience.

For instance, performing routine operations like generating reports for semi-monthly timesheet usage involves repeatedly adjusting report parameters to reflect the correct dates. This task could demand up to seven or eight clicks each time, a level of interaction some users find excessive and inefficient.

Pricing

There’s no free plan available; paid plans start at $6/user/month for time and attendance and $12/user/month for complex time tracking.

Verdict

In case you are prepared to invest time to learn how to navigate the platform, you’ll reap the benefits of an AI-powered time-tracking app.

Beebole is a time clock software that keeps track of the team’s time, breaks, billable hours, and time spent on clients, projects, and tasks. Now based in Brussels, it was founded remotely in 2008 by Yves Hiernaux and Mic Cvilic after years spent using time reports and attendance sheets that were difficult to manage and even harder to understand.

Beebole stands out as a notably straightforward and user-friendly option among time-tracking software. For those still searching for a time-tracking solution that fits their needs, Beebole is undoubtedly worth considering. While it may not offer many advanced features, its intuitive interface is frequently praised by users for its simplicity and ease of use. A testament to its customer-centric approach is the exceptional support highlighted by users, with one review emphasizing, “The most valuable part of Beebole is its customer support,” pointing to a responsive and supportive team.

In response to some negative feedback about its aesthetics, Beebole is taking strides to enhance its user interface. The team is actively working on a new design that promises to be more modern and intuitive, reflecting Beebole’s commitment to user satisfaction. This effort to evolve based on user feedback underscores Beebole’s dedication to improving the overall user experience and adapting to the needs of its users.

Beebole’s customizable interface allows you to choose the features that make the most sense for you and your team. User roles and permissions give you control over data access, team structure, and approval workflows. This lets project managers and team leaders approve time entries, lock or unlock hours, and set reminders for employees to submit their timesheets. And by configuring rates and costs to different employees, clients, projects, and tasks, you can easily track project status, budget, and profitability.

Pricing

Free plan no longer available, though there is a free trial. There’s one monthly flat rate of € 6.99 per user.

Rating

With some of the fewest user reviews on our list, Beebole Project Time Tracking has a rating of 4.6/5 on Capterra and 4.5/5 on G2.

Read this comparison of Beebole vs. Paymo for a comprehensive review of the two side by side.

BuddyPunch isn’t marketed toward a particular group, but it’s intended for teams of up to 1000 users. The software features time tracking and scheduling with a drag-and-drop interface, PTO tracking, and integrations with payroll apps.

BuddyPunch stands out as one of the most user-friendly employee time scheduling apps available. While it includes time-tracking features, its standout functionality simplifies the clock-in process, making it exceptionally easy for employees.

This ease of use places BuddyPunch a step ahead of other employee scheduling-focused software like Deputy and Homebase, which, despite receiving positive reviews for their functionality, don’t quite match BuddyPunch’s level of simplicity and user experience.

User feedback underscores the strengths of BuddyPunch, highlighting features that enhance its utility and user-friendliness. For instance, users appreciate how BuddyPunch streamlines the clocking in and out process, provides immediate feedback, and allows for editing timesheets for accuracy. This level of control and flexibility ensures that users can verify their hours before submission, minimizing errors and ensuring accurate payroll processing.

Additionally, the ability to leave notes explaining any discrepancies or changes in clock-in times adds a layer of communication and transparency between employees and supervisors, further enhancing the tool’s effectiveness in managing work schedules and hours.

Despite the high praise for BuddyPunch’s ease of use and functionality, it’s not without its criticisms, which users frequently point out. A notable inconvenience is the requirement for separate logins for the user and administrator roles, even when the same individual holds both roles. This can complicate the user experience, particularly for small business owners or managers who need to switch between these roles frequently.

Another area of concern is the limitation that prevents administrators from logging their own time directly within the system. This can be a significant drawback for teams where leaders also need to track their working hours alongside their team members.

Also, users have reported challenges with submitting time cards from locations outside the designated geofence, which can be particularly problematic for remote or mobile teams. Manual time punches for employees, an essential feature for correcting or adding missed clock-ins, are described as cumbersome by some users.

Similarly, making adjustments to someone’s time card, a common administrative task, is also noted to be somewhat difficult. The visual aspect of the tool may be somewhat plain, but it effectively fulfills its intended functions with the features it offers. Users value the straightforwardness of the interface, appreciating its conventional layout, which avoids the complexity often found in more ‘high-tech’ solutions. This simplicity in design makes it accessible and user-friendly, particularly for those who prefer functionality over aesthetic flair.

Pricing

There’s no free plan available; on top of a $19 monthly base fee, a $3.49 monthly fee is paid for each user for time tracking, basic GPS, Time Off tracking, Job tracking, and Break planning—or $4.49 for employee scheduling, and attendance reporting.

Verdict

BuddyPunch advocates that employees should “punch in” their schedule at all times—they offer GPS tracking and even slightly dystopian face image recognition to ensure employees are “punched in.” The facial identification biometric technology ensures employees are present, so the webcam takes automatic pictures of employees when clocking in and out. If these features are what you are going for, by all means, opt for BuddyPunch.

Timeneye was founded in 2013 by DM Digital Software, an IT company in Modena, Italy. It is intended for both freelancers and managers, offering time-tracking features and apps, simple project tracking, and reporting. It also has billable tracking and team management capabilities. There’s no information on any new updates or features. Timeneye boasts a pleasant and inviting UI that’s easy to use. Some users applaud its nice aesthetics, while others find it lacking.

Timeneye is a time-tracking tool tailored for Microsoft Office Suite users. It is perfect for those already using Microsoft tools for project management and other tasks without wanting to switch platforms.

Timeneye integrates smoothly with Microsoft Teams, To-Do, Projects, Azure AD, Planner, and Outlook Calendar, although it is compatible with Asana, ClickUp, and Jira. However, Timeneye lacks automatic time tracking and AI features found in tools like Paymo, Replicon, or RescueTime.

Its feature set is more limited compared to comprehensive tools like ClickUp, focusing on specific needs within the Microsoft ecosystem. The pricing is relatively high compared to competitors, especially considering the limited feature set.

Pricing

There’s no free plan available. The Pro paid plan costs $7/user/month for unlimited projects and clients, and there’s the option for a tailored Enterprise plan.

Verdict

Timeneye scores 4.8/5 on Capterra and is perfect for freelancers who need a simple tool to track their time and billable hours—otherwise, it’s quite limited for its price point.

Hours Time Lord is a mobile time-tracking app targeted toward people who work billable hours, such as freelancers and lawyers. It’s a simple time-tracking solution with notes, exportable reporting, and customization.

Its most appealing feature is the color customization of the platform, offering 100+ colors to customize your work entries; you may also tag, personalize, and title data entries.

Hours TimeLord stands out for those prioritizing a reliable mobile app for time tracking. Many mobile apps from popular time-tracking platforms often disappoint, lacking features, user experience, and stability.

Hours TimeLord addresses this gap with a straightforward and efficient mobile app, making it an ideal choice for professionals who need to track time on the move without unnecessary complications.

While it doesn’t offer a desktop version, automatic tracking, AI enhancements, or seamless invoicing like other tools, its mobile app excels in simplicity and ease of use. This makes it particularly appealing for consultants or freelancers relying primarily on mobile devices.

Pricing

A free account offers a visual timeline, 5 timers, and summary reports. For unlimited timers and customization, pricing starts at $9.99/user/month.

Verdict

It’s a neat app—terrible name. It’s worth noting that despite its more straightforward functionality, Hours TimeLord’s pricing can be higher than that of more feature-rich tools such as ClickUp or Paymo. Plus, its online presence is limited, with only a basic single-page website offering just a few tutorials, guides, or detailed feature descriptions. This lack of online resources could be a significant limitation for users looking for comprehensive support or more in-depth information about the app.

Jibble is a free-forever platform with unlimited users, offering clock-in and out via mobile, tablet, web, MS Teams, or Slack. Jibble is aimed towards construction, manufacturing, retail, healthcare, F&B, education, startups, agencies, companies with field employees, and office-based and remote companies.

Jibble is an excellent choice for time-tracking newcomers who prefer to explore its benefits without immediate financial commitment. Its free option, which allows unlimited users, sets Jibble apart in the time-tracking software landscape. The main difference between this free tier and Jibble’s paid plans lies in the range of features offered. Regarding affordability and approach, Jibble is similar to TimeCamp, with both platforms positioned as cost-effective solutions in the market. 

Jibble stands out for its ease of use, drawing comparisons to BuddyPunch, particularly for its straightforward clock-in and clock-out functionality, as highlighted in user reviews. However, it falls short in customization options, especially compared to more established competitors. Additionally, users have noted that the Chrome extension could benefit from an expanded feature set.

Pricing

Jibble offers a free plan, but there’s no transparent pricing system—Capterra has some rough prices per user.

Verdict

Jibble integrates with Slack and Microsoft Teams to track time—or you can use the Chrome Time Tracking Extension.  It also offers GPS tracking and biometric identification, so you must take selfies for attendance. One of Jibble’s standout features is its offline timesheets, meaning you can keep tracking time if you lose connection.