Over the years, ClickUp has slowly gained acclaim as one of the top-performing task management platforms. It is trusted worldwide by small and large companies, thanks to its great-value plans and extensive list of powerful features.
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’ve had the pleasure of looking at six of its close competitors that are impacting the task management scene, checking out their similar traits, and examining their distinct aspects that set each other apart. We can also help you decide if your team is more compatible with ClickUp or other platforms. Keep reading if you still haven’t found your perfect PMS.
For those of you who prefer a more visual experience, here is a video review from Deya on her YouTube channel Deya // Freelance, DBM & Entrepreneurship. ClickUp is a great way to get an overview. You can also check out the article below that compares ClickUp to other companies.
What is ClickUp? A brief overview Is ClickUp Open Source
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. Additionally, it’s best known for its jam-packed free plan and impressively valuable premium contemporaries.
Because of these, ClickUp has gained a highly favorable public following and critical acclaim. Although ClickUp is packed with productivity features, some users find it too much.
What Makes ClickUp Stand Out From the Rest?
ClickUp is a great tool for project management. 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.
The best thing about large tool storage is the fact that they can all be accessed in one location, rather than using multiple apps. It’s also worth noting that you don’t need to pay a lot to get a hold of most of the core ones as they’re already available in its Free Forever plan – that’s what ClickUp exactly promised since its inception in 2017. It’s believed that having all the necessary work tools in one centralized place may increase productivity rates within teams by around 20%.
ClickUp’s Shortcomings
Although having as many features as possible in one platform is a good idea, there are downsides. It is a common occurrence for people to feel tired when trying to deal with too many things at once. A common complaint nearly everyone has about ClickUp is that the overload of tools requires them to allot extra time to learn. 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
- This includes a wide range of solutions for work, from task management to time tracking to goal setting.
- Its free plan is one of the most robust in any project management software
- Lets you explore a wider scope of customization tools
ClickUp’s Cons
- It has so many features in one platform that it may intimidate those entering it for the first time.
- Overload of tools means more time for onboarding
> > Click Here to Sign Up for Free < <
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 is a heavy-featured platform. Asana counters this by offering powerful tools for work and a simplified way to manage tasks.
ClickUp has more tools than Asana, so this may be a good thing for some. Its estimated price range is however twice as expensive as the other, despite its impressive list of features.
Comparison of the Features
ClickUp and Asana offer core workspace tools and features for teams, along with additional customization and portfolio access. While the latter has life-saving tools like integrated time-tracking management, the former does not – this means you would have to find a dedicated program just for that.
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. Asana’s free plans do not offer the same features as ClickUp and can only be accessed by those who have opted for premium tiers. The only thing that saves Asana’s entry-level tier is unlimited storage. This gives ClickUp the obvious upper hand in the category.
Asana’s Unique Aspects
Asana may not be best recognized 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. Asana may have had a greater advantage than ClickUp by not having much to offer.
Although the latter has a lot of features, it may not be enough for all teams, especially those who are going through the onboarding process. With the former, teammates wouldn’t have to worry as much, as its display of core tools is simply laid out and ready to use, further saving time in the process.
With that considered, it’s more liberating to integrate and incorporate as much as you want to enhance your team’s work experience with Asana. 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.
- Its interface and general functions are sleek, making it easier for first-timers to explore the platform.
- Has an impressive list of advanced integrations with third-party apps and services
Asana’s Cons
- 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. Much like the latter, the former lets you do all kinds of task management duties of the highest quality possible.
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.
ClickUp Monday lets you do what it promises. The only differences are that ClickUp’s interface is more modern than the other, easier to use, and more suitable for large groups.
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. You can access half of these tools in ClickUp’s freemium program, but Monday will require you to pay for them. This can make it a bit difficult.
Regarding the pricing range, Monday’s version falls comfortably between ClickUp’s more valuable set and Asana’s more expensive one. Its Basic plan costs $8 – just a good $3 more than ClickUp’s equivalent, but not as pricey. 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. Is ClickUp Open Source
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.
Additionally, considering the cost range of its priced plans and their included tools, Monday has the potential to be a better great-value project management program for mid to large-sized teams. ClickUp works best for small-scale groups, so it’s fitting for Monday to be the ClickUp for bigger ones.
Monday’s Pros
- Has a great-value range of paid plans, most of which are suited for mid-sized and large-scale 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
- Its free plan has some limits features-wise, despite offering users more free storage space allowance.
- It lacks multi-device support, as it can’t be currently connected to voice control platforms like Alexa and Google Assistant.
> > Click Here to Sign Up for Free < <
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.
With Notion, you get to use a set of barebones work features, such as creating an organized list of to-do tasks, viewing the happenings in your workspace in different ways (from Kanban boards to calendar and timeline views), and crafting info-rich documents and 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.
Comparison of 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.
Beyond how much it can offer, Notion’s simplistic nature similarly influences its free tier and paid plans. 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. Is ClickUp Open Source
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. Considering the short list of features, it can offer right away. The notion has the advantage of being easier to explore and use.
Organizing tasks and other duties have always been challenging given its minimalist feel. 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.
Not only is Notion easy to navigate, but its layout is simple enough that it can be maximized however you want. 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 minimalistic interface leads to a less complex setup process
- 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
> > Click Here to Sign Up for Free < <
ClickUp vs. Trello
Breaking away from tradition, Trello cashes in on being the go-to project management platform with an eye for visual detail. 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. Is ClickUp Open Source
From the looks of it, Trello’s task layout capabilities have given ClickUp a worthy competitor in the field. Furthermore, it excels in its distinctive way when it comes to automations and integrations, and its free plan seems to be on par with what ClickUp’s Free Forever variant has in store.
As Trello shines best in its visual layouts, we can’t say the same regarding other important aspects of project management, like reporting. However, the limited number of tools available makes it easier to onboard.
Comparing the Features
Like ClickUp’s take, Trello does not fail to impress us with its storied range of visual task layouts, as each allows you to keep organized and in tune with your team’s primary goals. However, while you can create a Kanban board for free, you may need to pay for a $10 Premium plan to access many options. Regardless, its task management and automation features seem good enough to use by any team.
It is also worth noting that ClickUp’s integration capabilities are seamless. Trello’s free plan limits may limit your options, but you might be able to use its native and power-up offerings to give you more flexibility in your workflow. Additionally, Trello’s entry-level tier gives you unlimited storage, something ClickUp currently isn’t capable of having, which is a welcome bonus!
Trello’s Unique Aspects
Trello is not as flexible as ClickUp. 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. But will that matter if all you want is a place where you can organize your tasks for your team? 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. The Trello Cards feature allows you to combine all your tasks into sub-ecosystems that allow for workplace interactions. Is ClickUp Open Source
Trello’s Pros
- A wide range of work view designs that are board-based, optimized for various purposes.
- Has fewer features, ultimately making the onboarding and setup process less cumbersome
- Its free plan gives users unlimited storage space, which is good news for those who handle extra data.
Trello’s Cons
- Trello must improve its ability to create visuals and boards, as well as other critical tools such reporting and time management.
- You’ll only be limited to Kanban boards unless you sign up for its mid-tier Premium plan.
> > Click Here to Sign Up for Free < <
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. Most of these are geared toward teams specializing in IT and other high-skill fields, so if you happen to be part of one, this may pique your interest.
Jira, like ClickUp is robust and flexible. Its current offerings of tools are great – but it’s better suited to coding pros. 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’s also praised for its remarkable 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
If there are a few things that both Jira and ClickUp have in common, they may include scrums, automations, project reporting, and power-heavy task management capabilities. 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. Is ClickUp Open Source
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.
Although Jira might not have ClickUp, it can offer all the features you need. But it catches up with its integration capabilities and extra gigabytes of free storage space, encouraging you to add whatever is lacking into your workspace. You might like to integrate Gantt charts or time checking. All of these options are available 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
- Packed with an outstanding set of power-heavy tools, most of which cater to teams who work in IT and web development
- A generally functional plan is available. There are also a number of premium plans.
- Its list of over 1000 integrations with other platforms is one of Jira’s strengths. Is ClickUp Open Source
Jira’s Cons
- 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.
> > Click Here to Sign Up for Free < <
ClickUp vs. Airtable
Airtable has been widely admired for its spreadsheet capabilities, but it has more to offer than that. 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. Though more appropriate for teams specializing in organizing important data, Airtable’s inclusive approach makes it a welcoming solution for any purpose.
Airtable is trusted by so many people because of its stability and ease-of-use. It can be difficult to use in certain cases, especially when using its data input functions.
Comparing the Features
Airtable makes it easy to create a well-organized layout using spreadsheets. They can be used in multiple ways and for multiple purposes thanks to the template library. The Interface Designer update has added new ways to view tasks. You can now customize your views to look like ClickUp. Is ClickUp Open Source
Features aside, we have to appreciate how Airtable presents its free plan. It may be less robust in features, but it is surprisingly functional. You get to access some core features, but as for customization, there’s not much range of options to explore unless you sign up for any of its premium plans. Speaking of which, they’re a bit more expensive than ClickUp’s, so be aware.
Airtable’s Unique Aspects
Airtable excels in spreadsheets, out of all the project management tools on our list. It’s also one of the only platforms that cash in on their spreadsheet and table tools as their star asset.
Before the advent of digital boards or other task views, spreadsheet programs such as Microsoft Excel were used to import data and set up tasks for projects. Their formal and neatly stacked nature stemmed from the design has helped get teams to reach 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. Airtable’s unique capabilities make it more suitable for all types of teams, especially with cloud-based work and remote work. Is ClickUp Open Source
Airtable’s Pros
- There are many amazing customization and spreadsheet-creating capabilities.
- Renowned for its stable and functional user interface and experience
- 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.
- Although it may seem difficult to sign up for Airtable, once you get used to the overall functions of the platform, it will be worth it.
Bottom Line: Which Project Management Software Should You Choose? Is ClickUp Open Source
ClickUp is a great option if you want your team members to be able to do everything at once. However, if you don’t want your mates to be fully overwhelmed for the first time, Monday.com is a great alternative. Technically, all platforms in our list are alternatives. However, Monday.com has more in-house capabilities, such as communication tools, collaboration tools, reporting and time-tracking.
Asana, Notion and Airtable offer the perfect combination of functionality and form. You can focus on the task at hand while using as few features as possible. If you want to, integrations are available. The only difference lies in how they’re used: Notion focuses on note-taking and documents, Airtable on spreadsheets, and Asana on task handling with a little communication on the side.
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. Meanwhile, if you rely on an advanced-level interface and agile features and/or specialize in IT, web development, or any computer-related skill, then Jira Software is.
ClickUp is the only way to combine the best features from all other PMS in one place. But, if you’re going for this route, you may need to consider its strengths and weaknesses, most of which we haven’t fully covered 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.
Are you looking for the right PMS to help your team reach their dreams? ClickUp is the right platform for you or something else? We wish you all the best, regardless of which platform you choose.