Another busy week – where did the time go? The demand for time tracking has exploded in popularity, and now goes way beyond just invoicing and attendance tracking. People want a time tracker to understand what they spend time on so they can improve their productivity. Whether you're a freelancer, solopreneur, busy employee, or team manager, understanding how you spend your time allows you to identify time wasters, boost productivity, and get more done every week.

And gone are the days of manual time tracking, tediously recording your hours in a spreadsheet or notepad to analyze your time. There’s a time tracking app for that now.

Time tracking apps not only automates the process, but gives you the inside scoop on your productivity habits, project timelines, and even your billable hours. Say goodbye to stress and hello to efficiency with the help of time-tracking apps!

So what makes a good time tracking app?

• Time tracking analytics (in real-time)
• Analytics on time categories
• Analytics by projects or clients
• Historical and future time reporting
• Personal & work time insights
• Team analytics & individual analytics
• TIme billing & invoicing
• Attendance tracking
• Integrations
• AI-powered features

In the spirit of saving time, we did the heavy lifting research for you: here are the best time tracking software apps in 2024:

Top 10 time tracking apps

1. Reclaim.ai
2. Toggl Track
3. Harvest
4. Clockify
5. Paymo
6. TrackingTime
7. Forest
8. RescueTime
9. Hubstaff
10. Timecamp

1. Reclaim.ai

Reclaim.ai is an AI calendar and the #1 free time tracking app to try in 2024. Loved by productivity pros, this app automatically analyzes where you spend time right through your calendar so you can cut time-wasters from your schedule and make better planning decisions. 

Easily see how you spend your hours across meetings, tasks, habits, breaks, and even vacations. They have the best productivity analytics on the market, with stats on most productive days, deep work vs. shallow work time, heaviest and lightest meeting days, and tons more. And the best part is they are way more than just a time tracking app – Reclaim gives you the tools to create more focus time every week, get your meetings under control, and improve your work-life balance via AI time blocking through your existing calendar.

It’s super easy to get started too. All you have to do is connect your calendar to create your free account and pull up your time tracking report. It’s completely free to use as an individual, but you can also explore their employee-friendly team plans with anonymous People Analytics for teams who want to understand high-level productivity insights, without betraying employee trust and privacy.

Key features

• Time Tracking: Automatically track your time spent on meetings, tasks, habits, breaks, and overtime across your work and personal calendars.
• Time Breakdowns: Analyze time spent across different meeting types, shallow work, deep work, travel, and breaks to optimize your time planning.
• Productivity Analytics: Gain valuable insights into your most productive days and times, deep work vs. shallow work hours, and time reclaimed each week.
• Meeting Analytics: Analyze advanced meeting stats around heaviest and lightest meeting days, declined meetings, large meetings attended, and who you meet with most.
• Work-Life Balance Analytics: Monitor overtime, personal time usage, and vacation days to ensure you're avoiding burnout.
• Future Time Budgeting: Analyze your future availability up to 12 weeks in the future to plan out your time across projects and clients.
• AI Scheduling: Automatically find the best time to schedule your tasks, meetings, habits, and breaks into your calendar, and auto-reschedule around event conflicts.
• Flexible Smart Events: Create events with AI that tentatively defend time to maximize your availability, and lock into place as you near your due dates.
• Prioritization: Set priority levels for all of your Smart Events so your most important activities are always scheduled first.
• People Analytics: Automatically track high-level productivity insights across your team anonymously so you can identify opportunities to improve, without betraying trust.
• Integrations: Integrates with project management tools like Asana, ClickUp, Todoist, Jira, Linear, and Google Tasks so you can track hours across projects for time billing.

Drawbacks

• Google Calendar only: Currently only supports Google Calendar (Outlook coming soon).
• Feature gap with other time tracking apps: Reclaim.ai doesn't offer features like invoicing, billing, or attendance tracking, which can be found in other time-tracking apps.

Reclaim.ai pricing: Free → paid plans start at $8/month

2. Toggl Track

Toggl Track is a time-tracking software designed to simplify how you manage your work hours. It helps individuals and teams gain clarity on their time usage by offering features like easy time tracking with start and stop buttons, project and task organization, and insightful reports. These reports allow you to analyze your productivity, identify areas for improvement, and ultimately achieve more with your time. 

Its user-friendly, but powerful interface makes it easy to track time, and the insights gained from this tracking can help you improve your productivity by identifying areas for optimization. Freelancers and agencies, especially, can benefit from accurate time billing for fair compensation and efficient invoicing.

Not only that, but Toggl Track features like project dashboards and task tracking enhance project management, allowing you to stay on track and within budget. Of course, because of Toggl Track's free plan, it is a solid contender for the title of free time tracking app.

Key features

• Time Tracking: Offers various ways to track your time, including a simple timer mode, manual entry, and automatic tracking through the Timeline feature.
• Project Tracking: Keep projects organized with dedicated features like a project dashboard, budget and timeline forecasting, and progress tracking. 
• Reporting: Gain insights into your work with detailed reports. Choose from summary, detailed, or weekly reports, filter and sort data, and create visuals for presentations or client reports.
• Team & Data Management: Manage your team and data effectively with user groups, permission controls, and billable/non-billable hour tracking.
• Integrations: Integrates with various tools like Google Calendar, Slack, Asana, and more.

Drawbacks

• Limited project management features: While offering some project management tools, it lacks advanced features like workload balancing and Gantt charts, which might be needed for complex projects.
• Limited offline functionality: While allowing offline time tracking, syncing data across devices requires an internet connection, which can be inconvenient if working offline for extended periods.
• Potential for micromanagement: While promoting transparency, some users report concerns about a potential for micromanagement if not implemented thoughtfully.

Toggl Track pricing: Free → paid plans start at $9/month

3. Harvest

Harvest is one of the top time-tracking apps for its comprehensive approach, offering features beyond basic timers. It allows users to connect tracked time with projects, tasks, and clients, providing valuable insights into team productivity and project profitability.

Harvest also boasts robust reporting and analysis tools alongside invoicing features, making it a great choice for businesses seeking to optimize workflow, gain data-driven insights, and streamline finances. Its free plan, web app, mobile app access, and various integrations further solidify Harvest's position as a versatile and user-friendly solution for teams of all sizes.

Key features

• Time Tracking: Offers a user-friendly interface that allows users to easily start, stop, and track their time on projects with just a few clicks.
• Reporting & Analytics: Provides comprehensive reports and analytics that allow users to see how they are spending their time, identify areas for improvement, and track project progress.
• Invoicing & Payments: Create and send invoices directly to clients, and accept online payments
• Reminders & Notifications: Get nudges to start or stop timers to avoid missed entries.
• Integrations: Integrates with a variety of popular project management, accounting, and other business tools, such as Asana, Slack, and Stripe.

Drawbacks

• Reliance on manual timers: Some users find it easy to forget to start or stop the timer, leading to inaccurate data and potentially missed billable hours.
• Limited customization: While functional, some users find Harvest's features lack the deep customization options needed for highly specific workflows.
• Integration issues: While Harvest integrates with many tools, some users reported frustration with specific integrations, particularly project management software.
• Limited offline functionality: Time tracking heavily relies on an internet connection, which can be inconvenient if you work offline frequently.

Harvest pricing: Free → paid plans start at $10.80/month

4. Clockify

Clockify stands out among time tracking apps for its simplicity and generous free plan supporting unlimited users and unlimited projects. It's easy to understand and use, making it a great choice for individuals and teams of all sizes. Functionally speaking, you can think of Clockify as a minimalist (and cheaper) version of a time tracking app like Toggl Track.

This makes it perfect for anyone wanting to streamline their time tracking without breaking the bank. Clockify's intuitive interface allows for easy time logging across various platforms, making it a great choice for today's mobile workforce. While it may only offer basic time tracking and lacks some advanced features compared to paid options, its simplicity, affordability, and core functionalities make it a strong contender for many users.

Key features

• Time Tracking: Track time using a timer, timesheet, kiosk mode, or calendar integration.
• Reporting: Generate detailed reports to analyze how time is spent across projects, clients, and activities.
• Project Management: Organize projects, tasks, and schedules to keep your team on track.
• Team Collaboration: Manage teams, assign tasks, and track individual work progress.
• Invoicing: Create and send invoices directly from tracked time and expenses for seamless client billing.
• Expense Tracking: Record and categorize project-related expenses alongside time entries.
• Payroll Integration: Simplify payroll calculations by integrating with existing payroll systems.
• Integrations: Integrates with a variety of popular project management, accounting, and other business tools, such as Asana, Jira, Gitlab, ClickUp, and Zendesk.

Drawbacks

• Limited features in the free plan: While the free plan is generous, some advanced features like project templates, billable rates, and workload management are only available in paid plans. 
• Occasional technical issues: Some users report experiencing occasional glitches or errors, particularly with the web interface. 
• Limited language support: Currently, Clockify only supports a limited number of languages, which might be a barrier for users in certain regions. 

Clockify pricing: Free → paid plans start at $3.99/month

5. Paymo

Paymo is a well-rounded option for small businesses and freelancers seeking an efficient and versatile time tracking solution. While several competitors offer similar features, Paymo caters to diverse work styles by offering various time-tracking methods. Use the classic stopwatch for manual tracking, leverage the automatic desktop app tracker, or experiment with the Pomodoro technique for focused work intervals.

Unlike many competitors, Paymo's desktop app automatically tracks time spent in various applications. This eliminates the need to manually switch between the timer and different programs, saving valuable time and reducing the risk of forgetting to track specific tasks.

Paymo simplifies the process of managing timesheets. Whether you prefer to manually add entries in bulk or use the automatic app tracking feature, Paymo allows you to easily categorize and match tracked time with corresponding projects and tasks, streamlining the process for accurate billing and project analysis.

Key features

• Time Tracking: Track time manually, with desktop/mobile apps, or via automatic computer activity capture.
• Project Management: Create, assign, and track tasks & projects with Kanban boards, Gantt charts, and team schedules.
• Invoicing & Payments: Generate invoices, accept online payments, and track invoice status with reminders.
• Collaboration: Share files, communicate within projects, and send team member notifications using Paymo's team management features.
• Customization: Multi-language interface, customizable dashboard, work areas, and global search.
• Mobile App: Track time, manage tasks, and access invoices on the go.
• Reporting & Analytics: Track project progress, identify trends, and gain insights into team performance.
• Integrations: Integrate Paymo with popular business tools like Slack, Google Calendar, and Zapier.

Drawbacks

• Limited mobile app: For users who frequently use their mobile devices, the limited range of features offered by the mobile app could be inconvenient. 
• Steep learning curve: Some reviewers find Paymo to be not the most intuitive software, requiring a significant setup time to get everything organized, which can be frustrating for teams who need to get started quickly.
• Limited integrations: Paymo offers fewer integrations with third-party apps compared to some competitors.

Paymo pricing: Free → paid plans start at $5.90/month

6. TrackingTime

TrackingTime is known for its unique blend of user-friendliness, robust features, and a focus on both individual and team productivity. Unlike apps requiring manual activation, TrackingTime boasts an intelligent "automatic time tracker" that captures your activity in the background, eliminating the need for constant stop-start clicks. This is a boon for forgetful users and those who prioritize uninterrupted workflow.

The platform offers extensive customization options for creating detailed timesheets and reports tailored to specific project needs. Users can categorize time entries, generate reports by project, client, or team member, and gain valuable insights into their time distribution.

Key features

• Time Tracking: Track and manage time spent on tasks and projects through timers, timesheets, and manual entries.
• Project Management: Create and assign tasks to projects, track time spent on each, and monitor project progress effectively.
• Reporting & Analytics: Generate reports and analyze data to gain insights into time usage, project progress, and resource allocation.
• Mobile App: Access and manage your time entries from various devices through the mobile app.
• Integrations: Integrate TrackingTime with commonly used tools like calendars or spreadsheets for a streamlined workflow.

Drawbacks

• Customer support: Some users report inconsistent customer support experiences with TrackingTime. 
• Manual entry: TrackingTime relies heavily on manual time entry, which can be prone to errors and forgetfulness.
• Focus on hours: Similar to other time tracking tools, there's a potential risk of focusing solely on logged hours over the quality of work output. 
• No offline access: This can be inconvenient if you work in areas with unreliable internet or need to track time while traveling.

TrackingTime pricing: Free → paid plans start at $8/month

7. Forest

If traditional time-tracking apps leave you feeling cold and clinical, Forest might be the breath of fresh air you need. This unique app takes a gamified approach to focus, using a delightful tree-planting mechanic to keep you on task. Plant a virtual tree whenever you need to focus. As long as you stay focused and resist the urge to check your phone, your tree flourishes. Straying from the app before the timer ends, however, will cause your tree to wilt and die. This gamification element adds a layer of fun and motivation, making staying focused feel rewarding.

Forest is ideal for individuals who struggle with traditional time tracking methods and find them boring or demotivating. If you respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy a touch of gamification in your productivity tools, Forest could be a game-changer. While Forest may not be the most feature-rich time-tracking app on the market, its unique approach to focus and its commitment to environmental impact make it a compelling option for those seeking a more engaging and rewarding experience.

Key features

• Time Tracking: Plant a virtual tree and watch it grow as you focus on your task. If you leave the app, the tree dies, creating a fun incentive to stay focused.
• Plant a Virtual Tree: Each focused work session becomes a seed you plant to grow a virtual tree.
• Whitelisting: Allow essential apps (like calls or messages) while using the timer to avoid unwanted interruptions.
• Variety of Tree Types: Unlock and grow different virtual tree species, adding a visual element to your focus journey.
• Statistics Breakdown: Gain insights into your focus patterns by analyzing detailed statistics.

Drawbacks

• Limited functionality as a time tracker: Forest is primarily designed for focus and reducing distractions, not comprehensive time tracking. It lacks features like project management, task categorization, or detailed reporting found in dedicated time-tracking apps.
• All-or-nothing approach: The "tree dies" penalty can be discouraging, especially for longer tasks. It doesn't account for occasional checks or quick phone use that might be necessary.
• Limited free features: The free version of Forest offers basic functionality. Features like whitelisting apps, detailed statistics, and real tree planting require a paid upgrade.
• Unsuitable for phone-reliant workflows: If your work heavily involves using phone apps, Forest can be disruptive.

Forest pricing: Free → paid plans start at $3.99/month

8. RescueTime

Unlike other apps that require manual logging or timers, RescueTime operates silently in the background, meticulously tracking your app and website usage across desktops and mobile devices. This effortless monitoring unveils a detailed picture of your time distribution, highlighting productive, unproductive, and distracting activities.

Ever feel like the day vanished without accomplishing much? RescueTime's reports shed light on unconscious time spent on social media, emails, or specific websites, empowering you to reclaim control of your focus. By identifying your most productive times and categorizing activities by their level of focus, RescueTime helps you schedule tasks strategically and maximize your output.

Users consistently praise RescueTime for its unobtrusive nature, actionable insights, and positive impact on their productivity.

Key features

• Time Tracking: Automatically tracks the time you spend on apps and websites, even specific documents, without needing you to manually enter data or use timers.
• Reports & Insights: Provides detailed reports with graphs that show you exactly how you're spending your time and where you can improve your productivity.
• Goal Setting: Set goals for yourself, such as spending less time on social media or more time on focused work.
• Focus Tools: Offers tools to help you block distractions and stay focused, such as website blockers and focus timers.
• Mobile App: Allows you to track your time on the go with the mobile app.
• Integrations: Integrates with a variety of other tools, such as Evernote, Slack, and Google Calendar.

Drawbacks

• Limited reporting features: RescueTime's reports, while informative, can be vague and may not provide the level of detail needed by some users, particularly those who require specific breakdowns of time spent on tasks within projects.
• Challenges assigning activities to projects: Accurately assigning tracked activities to specific projects can be difficult, especially for users who juggle multiple projects at once.
• Privacy concerns: As RescueTime tracks all your computer and device activity, it can be a privacy concern for some users.

RescueTime pricing: Free → paid plans start at $12/month

9. Hubstaff

Hubstaff is a time tracking app that focuses on assisting businesses with managing remote or geographically dispersed teams. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools including time tracking, project management, and even payroll integration. Hubstaff seamlessly integrates time tracking across various devices, including desktops, mobile phones, and even web browsers, ensuring accurate data regardless of location. It provides detailed reports and analytics, empowering users to identify productivity patterns, optimize workflows, and make data-driven decisions.

Users love Hubstaff's ability to simplify time tracking, promote accountability, and provide peace of mind through its commitment to user privacy and control. Whether you're a freelancer or managing a team, Hubstaff offers the features you need to boost productivity and gain valuable insights into your work.

Key features

• Time Tracking: See how much time your team spends on different tasks with detailed time reports.
• Workforce Management: Manage your remote workforce with features like employee scheduling, leave management, and attendance tracking.
• Activity Monitoring: Gain insights into your team's productivity with features like real-time activity tracking, website and app usage monitoring, and idle time detection.
• Reporting & Analytics: Generate customizable reports and gain insights into team productivity and project performance.
• Project Management: Create projects, assign tasks to team members, and track progress.
• Payroll Integration: Streamlines payroll process for remote teams.
• Integrations: Connects with various tools like Asana, Trello, Slack, and PayPal.

Drawbacks

• Privacy concerns & potential for micromanagement: Hubstaff's features like screenshots and employee monitoring can be seen as intrusive by some employees, leading to a feeling of being constantly watched, creating a low-trust work environment and hindering morale.
• Focus on quantity over quality: Over-reliance on metrics like keystrokes and idle time might not accurately reflect actual productivity. 
• Inaccurate time tracking: Features like automatic time tracking based on activity may not always be accurate. Employees might need to manually adjust time logs for meetings or breaks, which can be cumbersome.
• Limited payroll integration: Hubstaff doesn't integrate with all payroll providers, potentially creating extra work for companies with specific systems.

Hubstaff pricing: Free → paid plans start at $4.99/month

10. Timecamp

TimeCamp is a feature-rich and user-friendly time tracker catering to both individuals and teams. It offers an innovative automatic tracking system based on predefined keywords you want to track around. Users can designate specific app names, file names, or website URLs, and TimeCamp automatically tracks time spent when those keywords are detected, streamlining the process significantly.

TimeCamp's automated features and intuitive interface minimize manual data entry, allowing users to focus on core tasks. Additionally, detailed reports provide valuable insights into time allocation, enabling users to identify areas for improvement and optimize their workflows.

Key features

• Time Tracking: Log hours manually with a start/stop timer, leverage automatic tracking for apps and websites, and identify unproductive periods with idle time detection.
• Project Management: Organize and track project progress, monitor billable hours and profitability, create project templates for easy duplication, and gain insights through reporting.
• Reporting & Analytics: Generate detailed reports on time spent, project progress, and team performance.
• Team Collaboration: Collaborate seamlessly with teammates by inviting them to projects, sharing timesheets and reports, and communicating directly within the app.
• Integrations: Integrates with various apps such as Asana, ClickUp, Google, Jira, and more. 

Drawbacks

• Mobile app issues: While TimeCamp has a mobile app, users have reported issues with its performance and design. Complaints include slowness, lagging during report generation, and a lack of user-friendliness compared to the web interface.
• Automatic tracking concerns: The automatic time tracking feature has raised concerns from some users regarding privacy and accuracy.
• Occasional crashes & reliability: While not a frequent occurrence, some users have reported encountering crashes and glitches within the TimeCamp platform, which can disrupt workflow.
• Clarity in reporting: The reporting features could benefit from improved data visualization and presentation for better clarity. This would allow users to gain more insightful findings from their time-tracking data.

Timecamp pricing: Free → paid plans start at $2.99/month

Take control of your time ⏰

There's a good time tracking app out there for everyone, from freelancers to large teams. Consider your needs and try out a few options to find the one that boosts your productivity and helps you take control of your time.