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.
It’s certainly eye-catching, but it’s not all you need. There are many other software options that may be more suitable for your needs than 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.
Deya has posted a video review on her YouTube channel Deya // Entrepreneurship, Freelance, DBM and 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 Which ClickUp vs Xlsm
ClickUp, a cloud-based project-management software, is available to companies and groups of all sizes. It offers a place to work efficiently with optimized task-handling and goal-tracking tools as well as reporting tools. ClickUp also gives you the opportunity to encourage growth and collaboration 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?
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. 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.
Though not much of a great concern as the other, ClickUp also needs to improve in terms of UI in that it can be buggy in rare cases and a bit complicated to navigate through. 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 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 and Asana, Asana allows you to track your team’s tasks from anywhere on the internet. Did you know that you can access both platforms via the iOS or Android mobile apps?
Asana comes with the core features you may expect, such as unlimited storage, reporting, goal tracking, and communication. 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. 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. 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. For reference, the ClickUp Unlimited plan is priced at just $5; meanwhile, Asana’s equivalent is at a whopping $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. 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. But, for what it’s worth, not having a lot to provide may have given Asana a bigger advantage than ClickUp.
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. The former saves time and makes teammates less concerned.
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.
- The platform’s interface and functions are simple, making it easy for new users to use.
- 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.
- Its expensive price range may not bode well for small-scale teams and low-budget groups.
ClickUp vs. Monday.com
Monday.com is one of the few platforms that offers almost the same 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. 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. You’ll spot the difference immediately if you compare its 500MB to ClickUp’s 100MB. Which ClickUp vs Xlsm
Monday’s Unique Aspects
Monday may be capable of offering a different amount of features than ClickUp on the table in its free plan – given that most of them require access beyond the paywall. We do appreciate the polished UI. 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 is best for small groups so Monday should be the ClickUp for larger 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
- Its free plan has some limits features-wise, despite offering users more free storage space allowance.
- It doesn’t support multi-device connectivity, so it cannot be connected to voice control platforms such as Alexa or 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.
However, you wouldn’t be able to try out other handy tools, including the Gantt chart, as Notion does not have enough capacity to offer them. 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). It makes sense, however, given the way it was presented originally.
Notion’s simplicity is reflected in its paid and free tiers. Its free plan, on the one hand, allows you to taste its core tools – what makes it different is that it’s more suited for personal use compared to ClickUp’s Free Forever plan. Notion’s Teams plan, on the other, seems to fit groups who may not need any of the increasingly complicated fuss of extra features better. Which ClickUp vs Xlsm
Notion’s Unique Aspects
The notion is one of the only software out there that caters to solo freelancers and minimalist teams better than large-scale companies with a lot at stake. Considering the short list of features, it can offer right away. It is easy to understand 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. It may not be as great as other tasks like automation, but those won’t be much of a great concern if you’re a simple task management type.
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 also requires other essential project management tools such as automation or advanced-level reporting.
- If you want to maximize Notion’s capabilities and add other features, third-party integrations may be necessary
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ClickUp vs. Trello
Trello is breaking with tradition and aiming to be the most popular project management platform. It specializes in offering teams a wide range of flexible ways to see and organize project tasks, with some notable ones including Kanban-style boards, signature Trello cards, and eye-catching views from lists to tables. Which ClickUp vs Xlsm
ClickUp has been made a credible competitor by Trello’s task-laying capabilities. 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.
Comparison of 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. However, the Kanban board’s task management and automation tools are sufficient to be used by any team.
It is also worth noting that ClickUp’s integration capabilities are seamless. 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. 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. You can’t record work hours with a timer, track and report on how well your project has been, or send e-mails within the platform – all because Trello doesn’t offer any of these currently.
This lack of range means it won’t be a great fit for ambitious data-heavy projects. 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. The Trello Cards feature allows you to combine all your tasks into sub-ecosystems that allow for workplace interactions. Which ClickUp vs Xlsm
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.
- If you don’t sign up for the Premium mid-tier plan, your access to Kanban boards will be restricted.
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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. These are all great features, but Jira is also criticized for its slow UI, confusing setup and inability assign multiple people to the same 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. The key distinction is the focus on dev teams, which may explain why some of Jira’s features are hard to digest if you’re not tech-savvy. Which ClickUp vs Xlsm
Another aspect both platforms share is the intimidation upon first impression – ClickUp may be notorious for its feature overload. Jira’s features are so extensive that some may have trouble understanding 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. Atlassian Access subscriptions are a good option if you want to have expert-level access, such as SCIM and SSO.
Jira’s Unique Aspects
As daunting as it may seem, Jira has the potential to be a highly functional project management platform. 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. 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. You might like to integrate Gantt charts or 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
- A generally functional plan is available. There are also a number of premium plans.
- Jira is known for its over 1000 integrations with different platforms. Which ClickUp vs Xlsm
Jira’s Cons
- If you’re not as well versed in IT jargon, you may have difficulty navigating through Jira for the first time.
- 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 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.
ClickUp may have good database management features, but Airtable excels across the board in this field. It’s best recognized for its generously customizable spreadsheet-adjacent table 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. The Interface Designer update has added new ways to view tasks. Similar to ClickUp, you now have the option to customize your views into calendar form or a Kanban board. Which ClickUp vs Xlsm
Airtable’s free plan is a great feature. Although it lacks some core features, it’s still very 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
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.
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. Their formal and neatly stacked nature stemmed from the design has helped get teams to reach their goals.
But, as time passed, they slowly went out of style, considering the need for more flexibility and functionality. Airtable was designed to solve the shortcomings of spreadsheet platforms. Today, with the increasing rise of cloud-based and remote work, Airtable’s signature capabilities are more fitting for teams of all sizes. Which ClickUp vs Xlsm
Airtable’s Pros
- Houses plenty of remarkable spreadsheet-creating and customization 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? Which ClickUp vs Xlsm
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.
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. After all, it shines best when it comes to 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. It’s worth mentioning that some of ClickUp’s tools may be better, while others may not – nevertheless, it offers a decent list of integrations, which you can use to your advantage if you need it most, as with any other existing project management software.
Have you found the perfect PMS to help your team achieve your dream goals? ClickUp is the right platform for you or something else? Regardless of your choice, we’ll wish you the best of luck!