Over the years, ClickUp has slowly gained acclaim as one of the top-performing task management platforms. Backed by a great-value range of plans and a long list of powerful features, it has been used and trusted by companies worldwide, small or big.
But, as eye-catching as it appears to be, it’s not the only software you should consider getting, as there are plenty more out there that might suit your team’s needs better than, say, ClickUp!
We have had the privilege of seeing six of its competitors in the task management industry, comparing their similarities and looking at the differences that make them different. We can also help you decide if your team is more compatible with ClickUp or other platforms. If you haven’t found the perfect PMS yet, keep reading!
Deya has posted a video review on her YouTube channel Deya // Entrepreneurship, Freelance, DBM and Entrepreneurship. To get a comprehensive overview of ClickUp, you may still want to check out our article below, which compares it to some competitors.
What is ClickUp? A brief overview ClickUp For Business
ClickUp is a cloud-based project management software that, like all other platforms, provides companies and groups of different sizes a space to work productively with optimized task-handling, goal-tracking, and reporting tools, as well as an open opportunity to foster growth as a collective to great heights.
ClickUp is one of the most popular productivity platforms today. It has distinct features that make each platform stand out. There are many features available, and most of them are easy-to-use and convenient. It is also known for its free, jam-packed plan and highly valuable premium alternatives.
Because of these, ClickUp has gained a highly favorable public following and critical acclaim. However, while being filled to the brim with productivity features, the amount it offers can be overkill for some users.
What makes ClickUp stand out from the rest?
There’s no denying that ClickUp delivers when it comes to offering teams a wide variety of project management features. ClickUp offers everything you need, including core tools like task creation, calendar, report, and communication. ClickUp also has handy functions such as time and screen recording and real-time collaborations.
What’s particularly nice about the large capacity of tools is that you can access them in one place instead of relying on multiple apps. You don’t have to pay anything to access most of the core tools. ClickUp has been offering this free forever plan since its inception in 2017. According to some studies, having all of the required work tools in one place can increase team productivity by up to 20%.
ClickUp’s shortcomings
However, while having as many features in one single platform as possible is a sound idea, it does have a downside. We all know that dealing with a lot of stuff at once may leave us feeling fatigued at some point. ClickUp has many users complaining about the fact that they have to spend more time learning. Most teams will need to learn the tools before they can use them for their full-time work.
Although not as serious as the other, ClickUp needs to improve its UI. It can sometimes be a little difficult to navigate and may become unresponsive in some cases. But that aside, it catches up in its customization abilities and offers excellent support and learning resources whenever help is needed.
ClickUp’s Pros
- Includes a widely diverse range of work solutions from task management to time tracking to goal-setting
- Its free plan is one of the most robust in any project management software
- Let’s explore more customization options
ClickUp’s Cons
- It offers so many features that it can be intimidating for those who are new to it.
- More time is needed to onboard if you have too many tools
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ClickUp vs. Asana
Similar to ClickUp, Asana is a cloud-based program that allows you to keep up with your team’s tasks at any time on any device – did you know you can access both platforms through the iOS and Android mobile apps?
Asana includes all the essential features that you would expect such as unlimited storage and reporting, goal tracking, communication, and reporting. ClickUp aims to be features-heavy, and Asana counters it by striking a perfect balance between offering powerful work tools and simplifying task management duties.
Asana does not have as many tools as ClickUp, which may be good news for some. However, as high-quality as its lineup of features may seem, its estimated price range is twice as much as the other.
Comparing the Features
Both Asana and ClickUp offer teams a handy slew of core workspace features and tools, plus some additions, including portfolio access and customization. The latter offers life-saving tools such as integrated time-tracking management. However, ClickUp does not. This means that you will need to create a program specifically for this purpose.
Asana’s paid plans cost twice as much as ClickUp’s currently. ClickUp Unlimited plans start at $5, while Asana’s is a staggering $10.99. As for the free plans, Asana does not have the same key features as ClickUp, and most of them cannot be accessed unless you register for a premium tier. The only thing that saves Asana’s entry-level tier is unlimited storage. ClickUp has the clear advantage in this category.
Asana’s Unique Aspects
Asana might not be well-known for its financial value. It may also need to be well-versed when it comes to its offering of project management tools and functions, too. But, for what it’s worth, not having a lot to provide may have given Asana a bigger advantage than ClickUp.
The latter is blessed with a huge load of features, but the overloaded offering may be too much for most teams, especially those going through the onboarding process. The former saves time and makes teammates less concerned.
Asana makes it easy to incorporate and integrate as many things as you need to improve your team’s experience. Asana, like every other project management platform allows you to integrate with different apps and services such as Zapier for a wider reach.
Asana’s Pros
- It has enough task management features to ensure a fast working environment.
- The platform’s interface and functions are simple, making it easy for new users to use.
- It offers a wide range of integrations with third party apps and services.
Cons of Asana
- Access to Asana’s paid-tier offerings is required for most of Asana’s key features.
- The high price tag may not be a good fit for small teams or low-budget groups.
ClickUp vs. Monday.com
On our list of project management platforms, Monday.com is a rare case in which it offers (almost) the exact range of capabilities as ClickUp. The former, much like ClickUp, allows you to manage all tasks with the best quality.
Monday allows you to create any type of task, file them in folders and subtasks. You can also collaborate with your mates in real time even if you are far away.
Essentially, Monday allows you to do exactly what ClickUp promises to offer – the only notable differences are that the interface is sleeker than the other, it’s easier to navigate, and it’s more appropriate in a large-group setting.
Comparing the Features
Monday provides the following tools for work management that ClickUp offers: In addition to primary functions such as task-making and reporting, and automations; these include the Gantt charts and Kanban boards, in-house Documents feature and time-tracking tools. While you can get half of these already in ClickUp’s freemium plan, with Monday, you’d have to pay up just to access them, which can be a bit of a hassle.
The pricing range for Monday’s version is between Asana’s most expensive and ClickUp’s most valuable. The Basic plan costs $8, which is $3 less than ClickUp’s equivalent but not as expensive. Although there isn’t much to be had, Monday’s free plan has the best storage allowance. Comparing ClickUp’s 500MB storage allowance to ClickUp’s 100MB will immediately show the difference. ClickUp For Business
Monday’s Unique Aspects
Monday might be able to offer a greater number of features than ClickUp, but that is only because ClickUp requires access beyond the paywall. However, we do have to appreciate how polished its UI is. Like Asana’s interface, Monday’s was designed to be simple to use even after you have been onboarded.
Monday stands out best in its simplicity based on how it lays out its features. Since it can integrate with third-party platforms, it gives companies with extra needs or solutions a space to maximize the software to the fullest.
Aside from the fact that Monday’s pricing plans and the included tools are affordable, it could be a great project management tool for large to mid-sized groups. ClickUp works best for small-scale groups, so it’s fitting for Monday to be the ClickUp for bigger ones.
Monday’s Pros
- Offers a wide range of great-value plans that are suitable for large and mid-sized teams.
- Has enough work view options, features, and functionality to give off a highly competitive edge
- The interface is easy enough to use for everyone, even new teammates.
Monday’s Cons
- The free plan does not offer unlimited storage, but it has certain limitations.
- It lacks multi-device support, as it can’t be currently connected to voice control platforms like Alexa and Google Assistant.
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ClickUp vs. Notion
Originally a note-taking application, Notion takes on a refreshing approach to task management. Notion does not rely on the traditional interface that is cluttered with many tools as ClickUp and other top platforms, but instead presents its features in a simplified, minimalistic way.
Notion allows you to create a simple set of work features. These include creating a list of tasks and viewing your workspace in various ways, from Kanban boards to calendar views and timeline views, and creating info-rich documents or wikis.
You won’t be able use other useful tools like the Gantt chart because Notion doesn’t have enough capacity. It does have a limited number of powerful solutions but it makes up for it with a simpler working environment.
Comparing the Features
As already established, Notion does not have as wide of a range of functions to offer on the table as ClickUp. As for the general design, the former appears to be less bold and brash than the latter (unless you try out any of its pre-made templates available on its official website). But given how it was originally presented, it makes more sense that it turned out this way.
Notion’s simplicity is reflected in its paid and free tiers. The free plan allows you to try its core tools. What makes it different from ClickUp’s Free Forever is that it’s better suited for personal use than ClickUp’s. Notion’s Teams plan seems to be more suitable for groups that don’t require the additional features. ClickUp For Business
Notion’s Unique Aspects
It is the only software that can cater to freelancers and small teams better than large companies with lots at stake. It is easy to use, considering the limited features it offers. The notion has the advantage of being easier to explore and use.
Given its minimalist look, organizing tasks and other duties has always been difficult. Whether you work alone or with a team, you may appreciate how you can cut straight to the chase and do whatever task is on your mind.
Notion is easy to use. Its layout is also simple enough that you can maximize it however you wish. Although it may not be as efficient as automation, that won’t make it a problem if you are a task manager.
Notion’s Pros
- It excels in task-creating and note-taking. This is especially impressive considering that it was originally a simple notes application.
- Its minimalist interface makes it easier to set up.
- Encourages users to be more functional and fluid in their workflow – this is enough to suit both one-person freelancers and teams with multiple players
Notion’s Cons
- It needs other vital project management tools, such as automation and advanced-level reporting.
- You may need to rely on third-party integrations if you want to use Notion and maximize it with other features it currently cannot offer
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ClickUp vs. Trello
Trello is breaking with tradition and aiming to be the most popular project management platform. It offers a variety of options for teams to organize and see project tasks. Some notable features include Kanban-style boards and Trello cards. There are also eye-catching views that range from lists to tables. ClickUp For Business
ClickUp has been made a credible competitor by Trello’s task-laying capabilities. It excels in automations and integrations. ClickUp’s free plan seems comparable.
As Trello shines best in its visual layouts, we can’t say the same regarding other important aspects of project management, like reporting. Nevertheless, its limited scope of tool offerings makes onboarding less cumbersome.
Comparison of the Features
Trello, like ClickUp, is a great visual task management tool. Each layout allows you to stay organized and aligned with your team’s main goals. You can create a Kanban Board for free but you will need to purchase a premium plan for $10 to have access to many other options. Regardless, its task management and automation features seem good enough to use by any team.
It’s also worth noting that its integration capabilities seamlessly match those of ClickUp. Even if you’re confined to the limits of Trello’s free plan, you may be lucky to take advantage of its native and Power-Up offerings, ultimately giving your extra workflow flexibility. Also, Trello’s entry level tier grants unlimited storage which ClickUp is currently unable to offer. This is a great bonus!
Trello’s Unique Aspects
Compared to ClickUp, Trello lacks a diverse range of workspace capabilities. Trello currently doesn’t allow you to track your projects, set up a timer or record work hours.
It is not suited for data-intensive projects that require a lot of flexibility. If all you need is a place to organize your tasks for your entire team, will this matter? If you don’t want to use Trello’s integration features, the default version might not suffice to meet your workspace requirements.
Trello’s task-management functions are a great way to organize your tasks. Apart from the assorted range of visuals, the Trello Cards feature lets you collate all your tasks into sub-ecosystems full of workplace interactions. ClickUp For Business
Trello’s Pros
- Offers a stellar range of board-based work view designs optimized for a variety of purposes
- It has fewer features which makes the setup and onboarding process easier.
- Its free plan gives users unlimited storage space, which is good news for those who handle extra data.
Trello’s Cons
- Aside from boards and visuals, Trello needs to catch up in other crucial tools like reporting and time management.
- You’ll only be limited to Kanban boards unless you sign up for its mid-tier Premium plan.
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ClickUp vs. Jira Software
Advertised as the #1 project management software for agile teams, Jira Software is packed with a stellar list of advanced-grade and highly functional features. These features are targeted at teams that specialize in IT or other high-skill areas, so if this is something you’re interested in, it may be worth your time.
Like ClickUp, Jira is quite robust and flexible to use based on its current offering of interesting tools – the only difference being it’s more suited for coding pros and the like. Core functions aside, it has been hailed by many who’ve used it for its top-notch reporting, dev-ops, and bug-tracking capabilities.
It is also highly praised for its impressive list of native integrations. While these seem promising, Jira has also drawn ire from most users for its notoriously slow UI, confusing setup, and inability to assign multiple people to one task.
Comparison of the Features
ClickUp and Jira share some commonalities, such as scrums and automations, project reporting, power-heavy task managing capabilities, and project reporting. One of the key differences is Jira’s focus on developers. This may explain why Jira’s features can be difficult to understand if you are not tech-savvy. ClickUp For Business
Another aspect both platforms share is the intimidation upon first impression – ClickUp may be notorious for its feature overload. Still, Jira’s range is so advanced that others may struggle with it. As for Jira’s free and paid plans, you may likely reap the benefits of what each tier offers, especially if you work in IT. However, if you wish to get expert-level access to stuff like SSO and SCIM, you must also consider getting an Atlassian Access subscription, which will add more to your expenses.
Jira’s Unique Aspects
Jira is a powerful project management platform that can be as simple or complex as you might think. Plus, given its offering of functions and tools, it may suit agile teams better – considering the inclusion of distinctive assets like DevOps and IT companies.
Jira may not be capable of offering every feature under the sun like ClickUp. It is able to integrate with ClickUp and offers extra gigabytes storage space. This allows you to easily add any feature that you need into your workspace. Want to incorporate Gantt charts and time checking? You can explore all of them in the Atlassian Marketplace.
Jira has a problem that users frequently have. It can store as many integrations and your computer could run into hardware problems. With that said, Jira can be viewed as a platform where colleagues can collaborate as quickly as possible, so long as you have enough time to explore the platform.
Jira’s Pros
- A great set of tools packed with power, many of which are designed for teams working in IT or web development
- Has a generally functional free plan – and an equally robust list of paid plans
- Its list of over 1000 integrations with other platforms is one of Jira’s strengths. ClickUp For Business
Cons of Jira
- You may find it difficult to navigate Jira if you are not familiar with IT terminology.
- It has been criticised for its slow interface, lack of intuitive functions and inability to manage important tasks.
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ClickUp vs. Airtable
Airtable is well-known for its spreadsheet capabilities. But it also has many other features. Airtable is a real-time spreadsheet-database hybrid that focuses on letting teams combine all the data and workflow into one source of truth.
While ClickUp has some great database management features, Airtable is the best in this area. Airtable is best known for its flexible spreadsheet-adjacent view. Airtable is best suited for data-management teams, but it can be used for all purposes.
From its stable functionality to its user-friendliness, there’s no doubt that Airtable has gained the trust of so many folks who use it. But, in some cases, it can be challenging to use, especially with its data input functions.
Comparison of the Features
Airtable allows you to craft an organized layout with the help of spreadsheets. They can be used in multiple ways and for multiple purposes thanks to the template library. But, as per its recent update, there are more ways of viewing tasks that you can explore beyond spreadsheets, thanks to the Interface Designer feature. Similar to ClickUp, you now have the option to customize your views into calendar form or a Kanban board. ClickUp For Business
Features aside, we have to appreciate how Airtable presents its free plan. It may be less robust in features, but it is surprisingly functional. While you have access to some core features, customization is limited. You can only explore the premium plans if you are interested in more options. These plans are a little more expensive than ClickUp’s so be aware.
Airtable’s Unique Aspects
Out of all the project management software on our list, Airtable stands out best regarding spreadsheets. Airtable is also the only platform that makes spreadsheets and table tools their star asset.
For years before the advent of digital boards and other task views designed for today’s age, spreadsheet programs like Microsoft Excel were primarily used to import data and lay out the tasks for any project. The design of these spreadsheet programs has helped teams achieve their goals.
They became less popular as they were no longer practical and had to be replaced by more functionality. Airtable was created to address the lack of oomph found in most spreadsheet platforms during its release. Today, with the increasing rise of cloud-based and remote work, Airtable’s signature capabilities are more fitting for teams of all sizes. ClickUp For Business
Airtable’s Pros
- There are many amazing customization and spreadsheet-creating capabilities.
- It is well-respected for its functional and stable user interface.
- Its affinity for diversity makes it suitable for many different types of work purposes
Airtable’s Cons
- Sometimes, data import and export can be difficult to manage, especially when data is transferred from MS Excel.
- Onboarding with Airtable may be confusing, but the effort will likely pay off once you’re used to its overall functions
Bottom Line: Which Project Management Software Should I Choose? ClickUp For Business
ClickUp is a great option if you want your team members to be able to do everything at once. Monday.com is an excellent alternative if your team doesn’t want to feel overwhelmed the first time. Technically, most platforms on our list count as alternatives, but Monday has more in-house features, including communication and collaboration tools, reporting, and time-tracking.
If you’re striving for a perfect balance between functionality and form, Asana, Notion, and Airtable are the best bets. Between the three, you get to focus on the tasks at hand with as minimal features as possible, and you can maximize with integrations if you feel like it. There is only one difference between the three: Notion focuses more on document creation and note-taking, Airtable on spreadsheets and Asana on task management with some communication.
Trello might be better suited for workflows that rely on visuals. However, you may need to integrate with other platforms in order to achieve other goals. It shines best when it is used with Kanban board views. Jira Software is a great choice if you are looking for an advanced interface and agile features, and/or a computer-related skill such as IT, web development or any other computer-related skill.
Lastly, if you want to stuff the best features of all the other PMS into one place, there’s no other thing we could think of other than ClickUp. However, this route is not for everyone. You will need to be aware of its strengths and limitations, which we haven’t covered in detail here. ClickUp may have some tools that are better than others, but it does offer a good list of integrations which you can use to your advantage when you most need them.
Have you found the perfect PMS to help your team achieve your dream goals? Is ClickUp the right platform for your team, or is it something else that best suits your needs? We wish you all the best, regardless of which platform you choose.