{"id":451,"date":"2018-05-31T12:06:39","date_gmt":"2018-05-31T10:06:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/?p=451"},"modified":"2025-07-23T02:00:00","modified_gmt":"2025-07-23T00:00:00","slug":"best-productivity-tools","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/best-productivity-tools\/","title":{"rendered":"20 Best Productivity Tools in 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>If you\u2019re reading this blog, chances are you\u2019re looking for that missing piece \u2014 the thing to boost you ahead of the competition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Naturally, it all boils down to you and your performance, but who\u2019s to say you have to do it all by yourself?&nbsp; <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From time tracking to task management, productivity apps can assist you in various ways. That\u2019s why I\u2019ve tested and categorized the best ones that the market offers in 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"555\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20-productivity-apps-cover-1110x555.jpg\" alt=\"20 productivity apps-cover\" class=\"wp-image-32448\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20-productivity-apps-cover-1110x555.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20-productivity-apps-cover-600x300.jpg 600w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20-productivity-apps-cover-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20-productivity-apps-cover-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20-productivity-apps-cover.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f0faff\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-5c430e3af789a59ad881a6001925c424\" style=\"color:#0c1013\"><strong>WHY TRUST US?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8f5aeff3e8f21adb3a112105a556e19b\" style=\"color:#263238\">The apps we talk about are selected, tested, and written about by human reviewers who follow strict review and editorial guidelines. We pick solutions that are practical, purposeful, and can offer real value for the specific use case or business context we\u2019re covering \u2014 while also being justified in their pricing. Our methodology is transparent, clear, and available to everyone:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-7f5f4bccd56f4d6606a10d2709890b37\" style=\"color:#0287c5\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/our-software-review-methodology\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Learn more about our review methodology here \u2192<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"overview-of-the-20-best-productivity-apps-for-businesses\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Overview of the 20 best productivity apps for businesses<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before I delve into the best productivity tools, here\u2019s a quick overview of each app:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>App Name<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Best For<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Free Plan<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Cheapest Paid Plan<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Availability<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Clockify<\/td><td>Tracking productivity and work hours<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$3.99\/month\/user (if billed annually)<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Hubstaff<\/td><td>Employee monitoring<\/td><td>No<\/td><td>$4.99\/month\/user (billed yearly)<\/td><td>Mac, Windows, Web, ChromeOS, Linux<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Zoom<\/td><td>Video communication<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$159.90\/ user\/year<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Figma<\/td><td>Collaborative design<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$12\/user\/month<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Google Calendar<\/td><td>Calendar management<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>N\/A<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Google Drive<\/td><td>File collaboration<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$1.99\/user\/month<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Microsoft OneDrive<\/td><td>File storage for Windows users<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$6\/user\/month (billed annually)&nbsp;<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, macOS, Windows<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Trello<\/td><td>Simple task management<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$5\/user\/month (billed yearly)<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, macOS, Windows<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Pumble<\/td><td>Team communication<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$2.49\/month (if billed annually)<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Chanty<\/td><td>2-in-1 collaboration and communication<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$3\/user\/month<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Plaky<\/td><td>Project and task management<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$3\/user\/month<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IFTTT<\/td><td>Automation for beginners<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$2.99\/month (billed annually)<\/td><td>MacOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Dropbox<\/td><td>File storage<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$9.99\/user\/month (if billed annually)<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Evernote<\/td><td>Taking notes<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$10.83\/month (if billed annually)<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Superlist<\/td><td>AI note-taking<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$13\/user\/month (billed annually)<\/td><td>MacOS, iOS, Android<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sunsama<\/td><td>Digital planner<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$16\/month (if billed annually)<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Noisli<\/td><td>Deep focus<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$10\/month (if billed annually)<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, Chrome extension<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Todoist<\/td><td>To-do list management<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$4\/user (if billed yearly)<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Notion<\/td><td>Block-based notes<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$10\/user\/month (billed annually)<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, macOS, Windows<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Structured<\/td><td>Managing your day<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>$1.67\/month (billed annually)<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-i-chose-and-tested-the-best-productivity-tools\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How I chose and tested the best productivity tools<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When selecting which productivity apps to include, I thoroughly tested each piece of software. Some of them I already use as part of my daily routine \u2014 others, I tested specifically for this article. In the latter case, I gave each of them a try for a couple of days to see how they affect my productivity.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ultimately, I only included apps that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Provide<\/strong> tangible value to my daily workflow,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Have<\/strong> a free plan or a free trial so you can check them out yourself, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Offer<\/strong> something unique you can\u2019t find in most competing apps.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Without further ado, let\u2019s dig into the productivity apps themselves!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"best-productivity-apps-for-work\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best productivity apps for work<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Naturally, online productivity tools are most useful for work. So, let\u2019s check out some of the best work efficiency tools available today.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"1-clockify-best-for-tracking-productivity-and-work-hours\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#1: <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Clockify<\/a> \u2014 best for tracking productivity and work hours<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"374\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/clockify-1110x374.jpg\" alt=\"Clockify\" class=\"wp-image-32268\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/clockify-1110x374.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/clockify-730x246.jpg 730w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/clockify-768x259.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/clockify-18x6.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/clockify.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Clockify is a time-tracking software that enables you and your team to track project progress throughout the day.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I use Clockify daily. To me, the interface feels natural and intuitive \u2014 I usually <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/features\/timer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">start the timer<\/a> at the beginning of my workday and hit stop when I\u2019m ready to <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/business\/simple-clock-in-clock-out-system\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">clock out<\/a> \u2014 it\u2019s that easy. I can also use the timer to track individual tasks, for a more granular view of each workday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How to Use Time Tracker in Clockify | Clockify Tutorial (2024)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/c7CmPLydefE?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Moreover, the <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/features\/auto-tracker\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">auto tracker function<\/a> works great if you don\u2019t want to bother with manually inputting your work hours. In fact, the auto tracker automatically records which different websites and apps I use, and for how long.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"487\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Auto-tracker-in-Clockify-1-1110x487.jpg\" alt=\"Auto tracker in Clockify\" class=\"wp-image-32270\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Auto-tracker-in-Clockify-1-1110x487.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Auto-tracker-in-Clockify-1-683x300.jpg 683w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Auto-tracker-in-Clockify-1-768x337.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Auto-tracker-in-Clockify-1-18x8.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Auto-tracker-in-Clockify-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Auto tracker in Clockify\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>I can convert any activity recorded by the auto tracker into a time entry with a single click, and it immediately shows up on my timesheets.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"940\" height=\"362\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Timesheets-in-Clockify.png\" alt=\"Timesheets in Clockify\" class=\"wp-image-32417\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Timesheets-in-Clockify.png 940w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Timesheets-in-Clockify-730x281.png 730w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Timesheets-in-Clockify-768x296.png 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Timesheets-in-Clockify-18x7.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 940px) 100vw, 940px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Timesheets in Clockify<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>For me, Clockify is one of the best productivity apps because it delivers the best value for my money. It\u2019s more affordable than most of its competitors, and you can easily scale your account depending on your workspace needs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike most other professional time trackers, Clockify is as simple or complex as I want it to be. When I need a simple start-stop timer, it\u2019s there. And it\u2019s also there when I want to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Edit<\/strong> my timesheets in depth,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Generate<\/strong> client invoices, or&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Calculate<\/strong> my client\u2019s profitability.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Get Clockify now<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Clockify pro:<\/strong> Simple and efficient user interface that makes it easy to track time in various ways and calculate export-ready expenses and costs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Clockify con:<\/strong> GPS tracking is not available in the free tier.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Clockify: <\/strong>As of the July 2025 update, Clockify users can <a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/updates\/clockify-q2-2025#pumble-integration\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">automatically receive notifications on Pumble<\/a> for the status of their timesheets, as well as reminders to log their time.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Clockify<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>7-day free trial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$3.99\/month\/user (if billed annually)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for: <\/strong>Small to medium-sized businesses in all industries who want an affordable time tracking solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 CLOCKIFY PRO TIP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Want 2 more useful productivity apps by the team that brought you Clockify? If so, check out the bundle below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/bundle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAKE.com\u2019s Productivity Bundle<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"2-hubstaff-best-for-employee-monitoring\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#2: <a href=\"https:\/\/hubstaff.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hubstaff<\/a> \u2014 best for employee monitoring<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"582\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/hubstaff-1110x582.jpg\" alt=\"Hubstaff\" class=\"wp-image-32273\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/hubstaff-1110x582.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/hubstaff-572x300.jpg 572w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/hubstaff-285x150.jpg 285w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/hubstaff-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/hubstaff-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/hubstaff.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>At its core, Hubstaff is a time-tracking tool, but with a greater emphasis on employee tracking and monitoring.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each employee can track time using a simple web timer \u2014 they select a project and task, and start the timer by clicking the play button. Everyone can also enter their hours manually in timesheets.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"373\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/web-timer-in-hubstaff.jpg\" alt=\"Web timer in Hubstaff\" class=\"wp-image-32274\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/web-timer-in-hubstaff.jpg 800w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/web-timer-in-hubstaff-643x300.jpg 643w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/web-timer-in-hubstaff-768x358.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/web-timer-in-hubstaff-18x8.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Web timer in Hubstaff<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>While you and your team can use Hubstaff solely as a time tracker, the platform\u2019s primary use is employee monitoring.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, in my opinion, it\u2019s not the most cost-effective option for freelancers or team leaders who don\u2019t want to micromanage their teams.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"584\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/location-tracking-in-hubstaff-1110x584.jpg\" alt=\"Location tracking in Hubstaff\" class=\"wp-image-32276\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/location-tracking-in-hubstaff-1110x584.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/location-tracking-in-hubstaff-571x300.jpg 571w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/location-tracking-in-hubstaff-285x150.jpg 285w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/location-tracking-in-hubstaff-768x404.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/location-tracking-in-hubstaff-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/location-tracking-in-hubstaff.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Location tracking in Hubstaff\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The main feature of Hubstaff\u2019s dashboard is an interactive world map. When I added employees to the platform, I could track their locations in real time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Besides location, Hubstaff can also monitor:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>App usage &amp; URL visits,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keyboard strokes and mouse movements,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Employee screens via regular screenshots, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Idle time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 CLOCKIFY PRO TIP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Want to monitor your employee\u2019s productivity without invading their privacy? Check out this useful guide:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/tracking-time\/non-invasive-employee-time-tracking\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Track Employee Time Without Invading Privacy<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, most of the advanced reports are locked behind more expensive subscription tiers. Since Hubstaff doesn\u2019t offer a free tier and the useful reports aren\u2019t available with the basic paid plan, you need to pay $12 per user per month to access the platform\u2019s actual selling point.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Hubstaff pros<\/strong>: An idle time reminder for inactive employees.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Hubstaff cons:<\/strong> In-depth staff monitoring that many employees find intrusive, and no free plan is available.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Hubstaff: <\/strong>In April 2025, Hubstaff introduced the option to <a href=\"https:\/\/roadmap.hubstaff.com\/c\/191-audit-log-export\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">export audit logs<\/a> in CSV or PDF for record-keeping and compliance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Hubstaff<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>No<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Starting price<\/td><td>$4.99\/month\/user (billed yearly)&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Mac, Windows, Web, ChromeOS, Linux<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for: <\/strong>Teams that don\u2019t mind extensive monitoring and micromanaging.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Try a budget-friendly alternative<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"3-zoom-best-for-video-communication\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#3: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zoom.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Zoom<\/a> \u2014 best for video communication<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"544\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/zoom-1110x544.jpg\" alt=\"Zoom\" class=\"wp-image-32277\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/zoom-1110x544.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/zoom-612x300.jpg 612w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/zoom-768x376.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/zoom-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/zoom.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Zoom helps teams collaborate by facilitating meetings and conference calls. To make sure I don\u2019t miss any important meetings, I integrated my Zoom account with Google Calendar services to stay on top of everything.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a result, I can simply create Zoom meetings directly from Google Calendar and invite participants.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"861\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-Zoom-meetings-directly-from-Google-Calendar-861x630.jpg\" alt=\"Creating Zoom meetings directly from Google Calendar\" class=\"wp-image-32281\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-Zoom-meetings-directly-from-Google-Calendar-861x630.jpg 861w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-Zoom-meetings-directly-from-Google-Calendar-410x300.jpg 410w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-Zoom-meetings-directly-from-Google-Calendar-768x562.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-Zoom-meetings-directly-from-Google-Calendar-16x12.jpg 16w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-Zoom-meetings-directly-from-Google-Calendar.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 861px) 100vw, 861px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Creating Zoom meetings directly from Google Calendar\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>With Zoom\u2019s AI assistant, I can also stay organized by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Drafting<\/strong> chat messages based on conversational context,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Generating<\/strong> a meeting summary based on the topic of the conversation, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Making<\/strong> AI assistant queries during meetings to catch up on missed topics.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>I think Zoom does a great job of simplifying video conferencing as much as possible. As I work in a geographically dispersed team, these quality-of-life AI features make it easier to maximize the value of every meeting. I don\u2019t have to waste time jotting down extensive notes for every meet, for example.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Zoom pros: <\/strong>Being able to reserve meeting rooms or desks directly from the platform via Zoom Rooms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Zoom cons: <\/strong>Security issues, like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techtarget.com\/searchsecurity\/definition\/Zoombombing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">interruptions by uninvited guests<\/a>, are common enough to have their own name.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Zoom: <\/strong>Since July 2025, Zoom allows administrators to <a href=\"https:\/\/support.zoom.com\/hc\/en\/article?id=zm_kb&amp;sysparm_article=KB0080363\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">create a standard look for the Waiting Room<\/a> before meetings and lock it down, preventing other employees from changing it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Zoom<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>30-day free trial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$13.33\/user\/month (billed annually)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for:<\/strong> Geographically dispersed businesses that heavily rely on video conferencing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"4-figma-best-for-collaborative-design\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#4: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.figma.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Figma<\/a> \u2014 best for collaborative design<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"454\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/figma-1110x454.jpg\" alt=\"Figma\" class=\"wp-image-32284\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/figma-1110x454.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/figma-730x300.jpg 730w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/figma-768x314.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/figma-18x7.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/figma.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you and your employees need to collaborate on visual design? If so, Figma could be the productivity app for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Figma is a cloud-based design tool made for businesses of all sizes, as well as freelancers, to craft, share, and collaborate on design prototypes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Teams can collaborate on project pages remotely, and any changes are updated in real time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, the feature I appreciate the most is audio chatting. It allows me and other collaborators to chat directly in Figma files without leaving the platform or resorting to an external program. This speeds up collaboration immensely.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"369\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Audio-chat-in-Figma-369x630.jpg\" alt=\"Audio chat in Figma\" class=\"wp-image-32285\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Audio-chat-in-Figma-369x630.jpg 369w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Audio-chat-in-Figma-176x300.jpg 176w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Audio-chat-in-Figma-7x12.jpg 7w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Audio-chat-in-Figma.jpg 662w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 369px) 100vw, 369px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Audio chat in Figma<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>For me, the biggest benefit of Figma was its extremely active community. Since it\u2019s one of the most popular design tools on the Internet, Figma\u2019s community hub is a treasure trove of resources that designers share on Figma\u2019s website.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a design newbie without advanced skills, I could easily find templates and plugins for pretty much anything. Consequently, I could finish a design more quickly than in most competing apps.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Figma pros:<\/strong> The app\u2019s browser-based interface works on any OS.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Figma cons: <\/strong>Performance issues with larger files.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Figma: <\/strong>Since July 2025, Figma supports <a href=\"https:\/\/help.figma.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/32640822050199-Add-a-backend-to-a-functional-prototype-or-web-app\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Supabase integration<\/a>, allowing users to easily create working web applications on the platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Figma<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>30-day free trial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$12\/user\/month<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for:<\/strong> Professionals and in design positions, and team leaders in design teams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Try a time tracker for designers<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"best-productivity-apps-for-beginners\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best productivity apps for beginners<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Enhancing productivity is a skill like any other \u2014 which means you can learn it, get better at it, and master it. If you\u2019re not accustomed to office productivity tools yet, here are a few beginner-friendly options to get you started.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"1-google-calendar-best-for-calendar-management\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#1: <a href=\"https:\/\/workspace.google.com\/products\/calendar\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Google Calendar<\/a> \u2014 best for calendar management&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"493\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/google-calendar-1110x493.jpg\" alt=\"Google Calendar\" class=\"wp-image-32288\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/google-calendar-1110x493.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/google-calendar-675x300.jpg 675w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/google-calendar-768x341.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/google-calendar-18x8.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/google-calendar.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Google\u2019s Calendar app is one of the most popular choices in its niche because it divides your time into easily manageable blocks. And since I personally use <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/time-blocking-app\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">time blocking<\/a> to plan my day and manage tasks, I found it especially useful.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"491\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Time-blocking-in-Google-Calendar-1110x491.png\" alt=\"Time blocking in Google Calendar\" class=\"wp-image-32290\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Time-blocking-in-Google-Calendar-1110x491.png 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Time-blocking-in-Google-Calendar-678x300.png 678w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Time-blocking-in-Google-Calendar-768x340.png 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Time-blocking-in-Google-Calendar-18x8.png 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Time-blocking-in-Google-Calendar.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Time blocking in Google Calendar\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>However, Google Calendar\u2019s biggest advantage is its native integration with other Google Workspace apps, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Gmail<\/strong>, allowing me to add events, flight confirmations, and other info from emails directly to my calendar.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Google Meet<\/strong>, allowing me to add video conferencing to any calendar event.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Google Drive<\/strong>, allowing me to attach relevant documents directly to my calendar events.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Google Tasks<\/strong>, allowing me to create and manage tasks related to my events.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>While this level of integration is a massive benefit for those who work in Google Workspace, it\u2019s a double-edged sword. If you use any other work suite, like Microsoft Office, you\u2019ll get a lot less value out of Google Calendar.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 CLOCKIFY PRO TIP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Struggling to manage your business calendar? Check out this article for some tips on planning and juggling various work events:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/calendar-management-tips-business-owners\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Effective Calendar Management Tips for Business Owners<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Google Calendar pros:<\/strong> Intuitive user interface and layered calendars that let you view multiple schedules at once. This makes it easy to see when your colleagues are free when you want to schedule a meeting.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Google Calendar cons: <\/strong>Data privacy concerns tied to Google products and the lack of a desktop app for Windows and macOS.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Google Calendar:<\/strong> In July 2025, Google added the option of <a href=\"https:\/\/workspaceupdates.googleblog.com\/2025\/07\/release-notes-07-11-2025.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">sharing calendars between users<\/a> to its Android app. Previously, it was only available on the web version of Google Calendar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Google Calendar<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>\/<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best value for: <\/strong>Existing<strong> <\/strong>Google Workspace users who want a simple calendar app.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"2-google-drive-best-file-collaboration-app\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#2: <a href=\"https:\/\/workspace.google.com\/products\/drive\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Google Drive<\/a> \u2014 best file collaboration app<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"504\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/google-drive-1110x504.jpg\" alt=\"Google Drive\" class=\"wp-image-32291\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/google-drive-1110x504.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/google-drive-661x300.jpg 661w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/google-drive-768x349.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/google-drive-18x8.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/google-drive.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Like Google Calendar, Google Drive has also become one of the default options in its niche \u2014 specifically, cloud storage.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can use Google Drive to upload:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Images,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Documents,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Videos,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Audio files, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Notes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>What I appreciate the most about Google Drive is the ability to share and collaborate on various types of documents \u2014 from docs to spreadsheets.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since I generally share my work with other writers and editors, the ability to instantly grant access to my files is extremely important to me on a daily basis, which is where Google Drive comes in.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"771\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Giving-file-permissions-to-other-people-via-Google-Drive-771x630.png\" alt=\"Giving file permissions to other people via Google Drive\" class=\"wp-image-32293\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Giving-file-permissions-to-other-people-via-Google-Drive-771x630.png 771w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Giving-file-permissions-to-other-people-via-Google-Drive-367x300.png 367w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Giving-file-permissions-to-other-people-via-Google-Drive-768x628.png 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Giving-file-permissions-to-other-people-via-Google-Drive-15x12.png 15w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Giving-file-permissions-to-other-people-via-Google-Drive.png 1018w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 771px) 100vw, 771px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Giving file permissions to other people via Google Drive\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Also, the free Drive version comes with 15 GB of storage capacity, which can be upgraded to 2 TB of storage space with the Premium Google One plan. For personal use, it\u2019s one of the most affordable file storage options on the market.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 CLOCKIFY PRO TIP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Need help managing your digital storage and reducing clutter? Here are a few expert tips:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-time\/digital-declutter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Declutter Your Digital Space<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Google Drive pros: <\/strong>Powerful search function that can find phrases within documents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Google Drive cons:<\/strong> Subpar desktop app with frequent sync issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Google Drive<\/strong>: As of July 2025, you can use Gemini to <a href=\"https:\/\/workspaceupdates.googleblog.com\/2025\/07\/execute-basic-organizational-tasks-using-gemini-in-drive.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">perform basic organizational tasks in Google Drive<\/a>, like creating new folders or moving files.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Google Drive<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>No<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$1.67\/user\/month (billed annually)&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for: <\/strong>Personal use and small businesses that need the most affordable cloud storage option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"3-microsoft-onedrive-best-file-storage-for-windows-users\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#3: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/en-us\/microsoft-365\/onedrive\/online-cloud-storage\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Microsoft OneDrive<\/a> \u2014 best file storage for Windows users<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"579\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/microsoft-onedrive-1110x579.jpg\" alt=\"Microsoft Onedrive\" class=\"wp-image-32296\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/microsoft-onedrive-1110x579.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/microsoft-onedrive-575x300.jpg 575w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/microsoft-onedrive-285x150.jpg 285w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/microsoft-onedrive-768x401.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/microsoft-onedrive-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/microsoft-onedrive.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Although Microsoft\u2019s cloud storage service trails behind Google Drive in terms of market share, OneDrive is still arguably the best online storage for Windows users.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I got OneDrive pre-installed with Windows 11. It\u2019s unintrusive, existing as just another folder where I can move and copy my files. And when I do, the files and subfolders are automatically backed up to my OneDrive account.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It all happens in the background, making cloud backups seamless and simple. Plus, OneDrive natively integrates with other Microsoft Office apps, like Word and PowerPoint.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"749\" height=\"410\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Saving-Microsoft-Office-files-directly-to-OneDrive.png\" alt=\"Saving Microsoft Office files directly to OneDrive\" class=\"wp-image-32297\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Saving-Microsoft-Office-files-directly-to-OneDrive.png 749w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Saving-Microsoft-Office-files-directly-to-OneDrive-548x300.png 548w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Saving-Microsoft-Office-files-directly-to-OneDrive-18x10.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 749px) 100vw, 749px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Saving Microsoft Office files directly to OneDrive\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>When I work in Microsoft Word or PowerPoint and want to save a copy of my file, I can save it directly to OneDrive without leaving the app. It makes backing up my work quicker and gives me peace of mind in case anything happens to my computer.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Microsoft OneDrive pros: <\/strong>Secure password-protected folder with optional 2-factor authentication called Personal Vault, for more sensitive files.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Microsoft OneDrive cons:<\/strong> Slow initial sync time, and occasional performance issues with larger files or huge folders with many smaller files.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Microsoft OneDrive:<\/strong> Since October 2024, users can <a href=\"https:\/\/support.microsoft.com\/en-us\/office\/onedrive-release-notes-845dcf18-f921-435e-bf28-4e24b95e5fc0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">color-code OneDrive folders in Windows<\/a>, not just the OneDrive app.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Microsoft OneDrive<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$6\/user\/month (billed annually)&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, macOS, Windows<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for: <\/strong>Microsoft Office and Windows users who need a cloud storage solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"4-trello-best-for-simple-task-management\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#4: <a href=\"https:\/\/trello.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Trello<\/a> \u2014 best for simple task management<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"577\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/trello-1110x577.jpg\" alt=\"Trello\" class=\"wp-image-32298\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/trello-1110x577.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/trello-577x300.jpg 577w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/trello-768x399.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/trello-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/trello.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for the digital equivalent of a whiteboard with sticky notes, Trello will suit you as a task manager.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For me, simplicity is the biggest advantage of Trello compared to other task management and note-taking apps. Everything in the app is organized into boards, lists, and cards.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"525\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Boards-lists-and-cards-in-Trello-525x630.png\" alt=\"Boards, lists, and cards in Trello\" class=\"wp-image-32300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Boards-lists-and-cards-in-Trello-525x630.png 525w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Boards-lists-and-cards-in-Trello-250x300.png 250w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Boards-lists-and-cards-in-Trello-10x12.png 10w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Boards-lists-and-cards-in-Trello.png 578w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Boards, lists, and cards in Trello\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Here, <em>My Trello board<\/em> is a board, <em>Today<\/em> is a list, and the individual tasks within are cards.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a simple hierarchy that anyone can customize to suit their needs and habits. I can also move the cards and lists around the board with a simple drag-and-drop movement. As a result, I don\u2019t have to put much thought or effort into how I\u2019m using Trello \u2014 giving me more time and energy to focus on the actual tasks.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This simplicity, however, means Trello isn\u2019t always the best fit for highly complex projects. If you\u2019re managing a large team or a project with a confusing web of interlocking parts, I\u2019d suggest a more straightforward <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/project-management-techniques\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">project management tool<\/a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Trello pros: <\/strong>Many useful features from native and third-party add-ons called Power-Ups.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Trello cons: <\/strong>Limited reporting and analytics features without power-ups and a paid plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What&#8217;s new in Trello: <\/strong>As of May 2025, Trello has overhauled the way card comments are displayed for better visibility. Now, <a href=\"https:\/\/developer.atlassian.com\/cloud\/trello\/changelog\/#CHANGE-2532\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">card comments and activity are shown side-by-side<\/a> with card details.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Trello<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$5\/user\/month (billed yearly)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, macOS, Windows<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for: <\/strong>Personal use and simple task management with minimal project dependencies.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"best-free-productivity-tools\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best free productivity tools<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re paying for digital productivity tools yourself, you probably can\u2019t afford to use many of them. The same goes for teams on tight budgets that want to scale without compromising productivity or quality.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s check out some free productivity tools that won\u2019t do any damage to your bottom line.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"1-pumble-best-for-team-communication\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#1: <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pumble<\/a> \u2014 best for team communication<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"574\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/pumble-1110x574.jpg\" alt=\"Pumble\" class=\"wp-image-32312\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/pumble-1110x574.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/pumble-581x300.jpg 581w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/pumble-768x397.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/pumble-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/pumble.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Pumble is a free team communication tool by <a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAKE.com<\/a> that has everything you need to efficiently and effectively collaborate in a team, especially a remote one.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Aside from direct messaging, Pumble users can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Call<\/strong> their coworkers (audio and video),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Join<\/strong> group calls,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Communicate<\/strong> with members via channels, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Share<\/strong> photos, videos, GIFs, and files.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Our team uses Pumble each day. What I\u2019ve noticed is that being able to quickly create a channel for any specific topic or a group chat for any team makes collaboration a breeze.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, Pumble lets me <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-time\/deep-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">engage in deep work<\/a> whenever I want to \u2014 making it one of the least intrusive messaging apps I\u2019ve used. I can easily pause my notifications for 5 or 30 minutes or even longer, up to 2 hours. This helps me stay focused and complete my assignments.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"524\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Pausing-notifications-in-Pumble-524x630.jpg\" alt=\"Pausing notifications in Pumble\" class=\"wp-image-32315\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Pausing-notifications-in-Pumble-524x630.jpg 524w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Pausing-notifications-in-Pumble-250x300.jpg 250w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Pausing-notifications-in-Pumble-10x12.jpg 10w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Pausing-notifications-in-Pumble.jpg 666w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 524px) 100vw, 524px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pausing notifications in Pumble\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>In my opinion, Pumble\u2019s biggest advantage is its generous free plan. With the free tier, you get:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Unlimited number of users,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unlimited message history, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unlimited channels.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This makes Pumble the most value-centric option for businesses who want to scale without increasing software costs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, the first paid plan is a bargain, offering screen sharing, up to 10 integrations, and other useful features.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark clockify-gradient-bundle\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Powerful productivity bundle<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">A full 3-in-1 productivity suite. Includes an easy-to-use time tracker, a practical project management tool, and a seamless team communication app.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/bundle\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/suite\" target=\"_blank\">Download<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-bottom \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/clockify\/bundle@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/clockify\/bundle.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Pumble pros:<\/strong> Easy import from Slack and an intuitive interface for quick communication.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Pumble cons:<\/strong> Guest users are only supported with a paid subscription.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Pumble: <\/strong>Since June 2025, <a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/updates\/pumble-plaky-clockify-integration\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pumble offers native integration with Clockify<\/a>, allowing users to get various time tracking notifications in Pumble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Pumble<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>No<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$2.49\/month (if billed annually)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best value for: <\/strong>Any-size businesses that want to communicate and share files in one place without burning through their budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"2-chanty-best-2-in-1-collaboration-and-communication-tool\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#2: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chanty.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Chanty<\/a> \u2014 best 2-in-1 collaboration and communication tool<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"582\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Chanty-1110x582.jpg\" alt=\"Chanty\" class=\"wp-image-32316\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Chanty-1110x582.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Chanty-572x300.jpg 572w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Chanty-285x150.jpg 285w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Chanty-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Chanty-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Chanty.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Chanty is a business productivity tool that strives to centralize the essential processes of any business. These include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Platform for messaging and video calling among coworkers,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Channels to help with communication and file sharing,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Task management boards with task distribution systems, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Integrations with other productivity suites.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"578\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Kanban-view-in-Chanty-1110x578.jpg\" alt=\"Kanban view in Chanty\" class=\"wp-image-32318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Kanban-view-in-Chanty-1110x578.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Kanban-view-in-Chanty-576x300.jpg 576w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Kanban-view-in-Chanty-768x400.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Kanban-view-in-Chanty-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Kanban-view-in-Chanty.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Kanban view in Chanty\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Chanty also has a built-in Kanban board for project management. The fact that you can discuss tasks in the Kanban view without going to a separate chat window is definitely useful.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While Chanty is a great option if you want project management tools and team communication features in one place, I used individual apps for these functions more often.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here, there\u2019s a bit of a \u201cjack of all trades, master of none\u201d situation. Apps that focus only on one of the two functions, like Pumble and Plaky, will always have more in-depth features. Many of them integrate with each other or with apps from other suites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Chanty pros: <\/strong>The ability to turn any message into a Kanban task.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Chanty cons: <\/strong>Limited number of integrations compared to competitors, even at higher subscription tiers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Chanty:<\/strong> As of November 2024, Chanty users on iOS and MacOS devices can <a href=\"https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/us\/app\/chanty-team-collaboration\/id1272755325\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">share lines of code with their colleagues<\/a> and receive reactions in group chats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Chanty<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>No<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$3\/user\/month<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for<\/strong>: Businesses with a solid budget that want collaboration and team communication in one tool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"3-plaky-overall-best-project-and-task-management-app\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#3: <a href=\"https:\/\/plaky.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Plaky<\/a> \u2014 overall best project and task management app<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"946\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/plaky-946x630.jpg\" alt=\"Plaky\" class=\"wp-image-32319\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/plaky-946x630.jpg 946w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/plaky-451x300.jpg 451w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/plaky-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/plaky-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/plaky.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 946px) 100vw, 946px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Plaky is a free project management software that allows teams to collaborate on different projects and tasks.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I use Plaky daily, and the user interface is refreshingly simple for me, while still providing a powerful set of project management features. Like on a Kanban board, my colleagues and I create cards for each task, and fill in details like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Status,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Assignees,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deadlines,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reporters,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Priority, and more.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>We can also organize cards into groups and boards. This makes any card easy to find, and the overall project more organized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When I\u2019m assigned to a task or added as a reporter, I get notifications whenever the task card is changed by anyone else. As a result, I\u2019m always keeping track of project changes and progress without any effort.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"792\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Cards-in-Plaky-792x630.jpg\" alt=\"Cards in Plaky\" class=\"wp-image-32320\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Cards-in-Plaky-792x630.jpg 792w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Cards-in-Plaky-377x300.jpg 377w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Cards-in-Plaky-768x611.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Cards-in-Plaky-15x12.jpg 15w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Cards-in-Plaky.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 792px) 100vw, 792px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Cards in Plaky<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Similar to Clockify and Pumble, the other 2 apps available in the <a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/bundle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAKE.com Bundle<\/a>, Plaky offers a surprisingly robust free plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With the free account, I can create an unlimited number of spaces, boards, and items. On the other hand, paid subscriptions provide access to more advanced features, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Longer activity log,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gantt view, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Handy automations.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Even with a paid subscription, Plaky is still a steal compared to heavyweights like Asana. For teams that don\u2019t want to spend a fortune on project management software, it\u2019s a no-brainer.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Plaky pros: <\/strong>The option to invite external partners, contractors, and others to specific channels as guests, and a bargain when bought as part of the CAKE.com Bundle.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Plaky cons:<\/strong> The activity log in the free version goes back just a week.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Plaky: <\/strong>Since July 2025, Plaky lets you instantly <a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/updates\/chart-view\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">turn tasks into interactive charts<\/a>. This feature can provide deeper insights into the progress of the project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Plaky<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>14-day free trial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$3\/user\/month<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for: <\/strong>Mid-sized and small businesses that need a simple yet powerful task management app.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"4-ifttt-best-automation-app-for-beginners\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#4: <a href=\"https:\/\/ifttt.com\/explore\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">IFTTT<\/a> \u2014 best automation app for beginners<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"583\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ifttt-1110x583.jpg\" alt=\"IFTTT\" class=\"wp-image-32322\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ifttt-1110x583.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ifttt-571x300.jpg 571w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ifttt-285x150.jpg 285w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ifttt-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ifttt-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ifttt.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>IFTTT, meaning <em>If This Then That<\/em>, is the simplest online automation service that connects various online services via a basic trigger-based causal relationship. It\u2019s a great alternative to AI-based automations, which are often overwhelming for beginners and overkill for many use cases.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s an example of a problem I solved with IFTTT. I often forget to check the weather before I leave my house in the morning, so I\u2019m rarely prepared for bad weather.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With IFTTT, I solved this by creating a simple trigger that automatically adds an event describing the weather to my Google Calendar each morning.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"638\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-a-weather-event-in-your-Google-Calendar-638x630.jpg\" alt=\"Creating a weather event in your Google Calendar\" class=\"wp-image-32324\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-a-weather-event-in-your-Google-Calendar-638x630.jpg 638w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-a-weather-event-in-your-Google-Calendar-304x300.jpg 304w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-a-weather-event-in-your-Google-Calendar-768x758.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-a-weather-event-in-your-Google-Calendar-12x12.jpg 12w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-a-weather-event-in-your-Google-Calendar.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 638px) 100vw, 638px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Creating a weather event in your Google Calendar\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>There are tons of premade triggers like this one, and all I need to do is toggle it on and grant permissions for various apps when the request pops up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019m not a big fan of smart home devices myself, but if you are, IFTTT will be even more useful. With the right hardware, you can set it to automatically turn on the lights when you enter your home, for instance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For me, automating many small daily tasks frees up a lot of time and energy for more productive endeavors and deep work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top IFTTT pros:<\/strong> The large number of premade triggers you can set with literally 2 clicks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top IFTTT cons: <\/strong>You\u2019re limited to trigger-based automation, which isn\u2019t complex enough for everyone\u2019s needs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in IFTTT: <\/strong>Since March 2025, IFTTT has <a href=\"https:\/\/ifttt.com\/explore\/new-on-ifttt-2024\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">introduced a new action<\/a> called <em>Send rich notification to the IFTTT mobile widget<\/em>, allowing users to receive mobile notifications from IFTTT directly.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>IFTTT<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$2.99\/month (billed annually)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>MacOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for:<\/strong> Non-tech-savvy people interested in automation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"best-paid-business-productivity-apps\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best paid business productivity apps&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Some productivity apps don\u2019t offer a free plan, or have an extremely limited one. However, that doesn\u2019t necessarily mean they\u2019re not worth their subscriptions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s check out some of the best paid apps that you should consider using in your daily workflow.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"1-dropbox-best-file-storage-app\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#1: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dropbox.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dropbox<\/a> \u2014 best file storage app<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"439\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/dropbox-1110x439.jpg\" alt=\"Dropbox\" class=\"wp-image-32325\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/dropbox-1110x439.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/dropbox-730x289.jpg 730w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/dropbox-768x304.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/dropbox-18x7.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/dropbox.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Dropbox is one of the rare cloud providers that can compete with behemoths like Google in terms of storage. Its key selling advantages are a unique combination of security and simplicity.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The platform is packed with various security features for safekeeping files, such as:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Advanced file recovery system,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Password protection,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Download permissions,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Watermarking, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Viewer history.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Using-the-Dropbox-recovery-system-780x630.jpg\" alt=\"Using the Dropbox recovery system\" class=\"wp-image-32328\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Using-the-Dropbox-recovery-system-780x630.jpg 780w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Using-the-Dropbox-recovery-system-371x300.jpg 371w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Using-the-Dropbox-recovery-system-768x621.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Using-the-Dropbox-recovery-system-15x12.jpg 15w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Using-the-Dropbox-recovery-system.jpg 990w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Using the Dropbox recovery system\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Dropbox also probably does file syncing best out of all cloud storage platforms. Once I choose a folder on my computer to back up to Dropbox, all files are immediately synced to Dropbox.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>No lag, no synchronization issues \u2014 with smaller files, you don\u2019t even see it happening. Dropbox is the smoothest cloud storage experience I\u2019ve ever had, by far.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, it doesn\u2019t come cheap. The free tier is designed to be little more than a trial. At just 2 GB of storage, you won\u2019t get far without a paid subscription \u2014 especially if you want to use Dropbox for visual work.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a writer who mainly works in Google Docs, though, I don\u2019t need that much space \u2014 so even 2 GB gave me plenty of secure storage for backups of my articles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Dropbox pros: <\/strong>Collaboration features like Dropbox Replay, which lets team members leave comments on specific frames of videos.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Dropbox cons: <\/strong>Competitors like Google Drive offer 7 times the amount of free storage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Dropbox: <\/strong>As of July 2025, <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.dropbox.com\/topics\/company\/spring-2025-release-dropbox-dash-search-videos-images-create-content-fast\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dropbox has introduced Dash<\/a> \u2014 an AI-based search tool that can easily extract information from uploaded documents and answer questions about their contents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Dropbox<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>30-day free trial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$9.99\/user\/month (if billed annually)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for:<\/strong> Businesses with large storage needs and a large budget.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"2-evernote-best-for-taking-notes\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#2: <a href=\"https:\/\/evernote.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Evernote<\/a> \u2014 best for taking notes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/evernote-1110x576.jpg\" alt=\"Evernote\" class=\"wp-image-32329\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/evernote-1110x576.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/evernote-578x300.jpg 578w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/evernote-768x399.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/evernote-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/evernote.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Evernote is a modern note-taking app, which lets you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Record<\/strong> and attach audio files to notes,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clip<\/strong> images and videos, locally or from the web, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Attach<\/strong> instant screenshots.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Evernote\u2019s Web Clipper extension makes it easy for me to get information from the Internet into my digital notebook. It can capture full web pages or specific parts, while automatically removing sidebars, ads, and other distracting elements.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The app also includes a decent document scanner with handwriting recognition, although I didn\u2019t have the chance to use it extensively since my work doesn\u2019t involve many physical documents.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Evernote also made planning and organization much easier \u2014 there are Android and iOS versions that sync with my web-based version and desktop app in real time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"947\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Setting-meeting-reminders-in-Evernote-947x630.png\" alt=\"Setting meeting reminders in Evernote\" class=\"wp-image-32330\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Setting-meeting-reminders-in-Evernote-947x630.png 947w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Setting-meeting-reminders-in-Evernote-451x300.png 451w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Setting-meeting-reminders-in-Evernote-768x511.png 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Setting-meeting-reminders-in-Evernote-18x12.png 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Setting-meeting-reminders-in-Evernote.png 1160w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 947px) 100vw, 947px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Setting meeting reminders in Evernote \n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>While Evernote offers a free plan, it\u2019s clear that it\u2019s intended only as a trial before purchasing a paid subscription. With the free tier, I was only able to create 50 notes and a single notebook.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At least for me, this made the free plan unsustainable for work notes. However, Evernote speeds up my research on various topics by giving me a single place to gather info from physical and digital sources. That\u2019s why I\u2019m subscribed to the cheapest subscription plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Evernote pros:<\/strong> An excellent \u201cdigital file cabinet\u201d for organizing work-related information.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Evernote Cons: <\/strong>Lack of a flexible block-based note system, present in more modern competitors. In such systems, each paragraph, image, or other element is a block you can easily pick up and move around the document.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Evernote:<\/strong> In May 2025, Evernote added an <a href=\"https:\/\/evernote.com\/blog\/110-improvements-jan-jun-2025\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">email alert feature<\/a> for comments on individual notes.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Evernote<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>14-day free trial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$10.83\/month (if billed annually)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for:<\/strong> Professionals who work on multiple projects and devices simultaneously and who want to take plenty of notes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"3-superlist-best-ai-note-taking-app\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#3: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.superlist.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Superlist<\/a> \u2014 best AI note-taking app<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"579\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/superlist-1110x579.jpg\" alt=\"Superlist\" class=\"wp-image-32332\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/superlist-1110x579.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/superlist-575x300.jpg 575w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/superlist-285x150.jpg 285w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/superlist-768x401.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/superlist-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/superlist.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Plenty of productivity apps claim to supercharge your productivity with AI, but Superlist is one of the rare cases where that\u2019s not an empty promise.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the surface, Superlist looks like a Notion clone with a similar block-based interface. Each text paragraph, image, or video is its own block \u2014 an element you can drag and drop around the page to rearrange everything quickly.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, Superlist\u2019s AI features is where the app truly stands out.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"988\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Starting-meeting-capture-in-Superlist-988x630.jpg\" alt=\"Starting meeting capture in Superlist\" class=\"wp-image-32334\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Starting-meeting-capture-in-Superlist-988x630.jpg 988w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Starting-meeting-capture-in-Superlist-471x300.jpg 471w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Starting-meeting-capture-in-Superlist-768x490.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Starting-meeting-capture-in-Superlist-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Starting-meeting-capture-in-Superlist.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 988px) 100vw, 988px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Starting meeting capture in Superlist\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>When I enter a meeting on any platform, such as Zoom or Google Meet, Superlist can capture my computer\u2019s audio and screen, and automatically transcribe what everyone said in the meeting using AI. All I need to do is press <em>Start meeting capture <\/em>before the call starts.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plus, Superlist\u2019s AI can automatically summarize the meeting and create notes. It saved me a ton of time and effort after each call and helped me focus on communication during the meeting instead of frantically taking notes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, unlimited AI note-taking is available only with the most expensive subscription tier, which costs $21\/user\/month (if billed annually).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Superlist pros: <\/strong>An excellent hybrid of a note-taking system and an AI transcription app.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Superlist cons: <\/strong>Integrations with other apps and other useful features are only available in paid tiers, and there\u2019s no Windows support.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Superlist: <\/strong>Since July 2025, Superlist users can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.superlist.com\/updates\/list-sharing-and-more\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">share lists in read-only mode<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Superlist<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$13\/user\/month (billed annually)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>MacOS, iOS, Android<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for:<\/strong> People who attend a lot of meetings daily and want to automate note-taking.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark clockify-gradient-default\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Free productivity tracker<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">See how productive you are \u2014 for free. Clockify shows you the time you spend on various apps and websites.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/apps\" target=\"_blank\">Download<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-middle \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/clockify\/default@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/clockify\/default.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"best-personal-productivity-tools\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best personal productivity tools<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Productivity isn\u2019t exclusively tied to work. In fact, a lot of productivity services try to help you balance your work tasks and personal chores. Here are a few suggestions for personal productivity platforms.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"1-sunsama-best-digital-planner\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#1: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sunsama.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sunsama<\/a> \u2014 best digital planner<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"501\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Sunsama-1110x501.jpg\" alt=\"Sunsama\" class=\"wp-image-32335\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Sunsama-1110x501.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Sunsama-664x300.jpg 664w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Sunsama-768x347.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Sunsama-18x8.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Sunsama.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Sunsama is a simple digital planner that combines notes, to-do lists, and a calendar into one intuitive interface.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The app allows me to quickly group my calendar entries and tasks in one place, prompting me to check in and write down the essentials for the week ahead. This makes it much easier for me to organize my home chores, work tasks, and anything else I have to do.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"562\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Grouping-tasks-and-Calendar-entries-in-Sunsama-1110x562.jpg\" alt=\"Grouping tasks and Calendar entries in Sunsama\" class=\"wp-image-32336\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Grouping-tasks-and-Calendar-entries-in-Sunsama-1110x562.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Grouping-tasks-and-Calendar-entries-in-Sunsama-592x300.jpg 592w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Grouping-tasks-and-Calendar-entries-in-Sunsama-768x389.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Grouping-tasks-and-Calendar-entries-in-Sunsama-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Grouping-tasks-and-Calendar-entries-in-Sunsama.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Grouping tasks and Calendar entries in Sunsama\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>For me, Sunsama\u2019s daily shutdown routine is its most unique and interesting feature. At the end of each workday, the platform guides me through an intentional routine that involves jotting down my reflections on everything I\u2019ve completed for the day.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s designed to clear my mind of work and improve my work-life balance. It may not work for everyone, but it helped me detach from work \u2014 particularly after a stressful day.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 CLOCKIFY PRO TIP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Want to learn more about work-life balance and how workers maintain it across the world? Check out the latest statistics here:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/work-life-quality-balance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Work-Life Balance Statistics for 2025: Global Trends<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Sunsama pros:<\/strong> Interesting focus on work-life balance that\u2019s absent from most competitors.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Sunsama cons:<\/strong> Lack of a free tier and pricey paid tiers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Track your routine with Clockify<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Sunsama:<\/strong> As of May 2025, Sunsama supports <a href=\"https:\/\/roadmap.sunsama.com\/changelog\/google-tasks-integration\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">integration with Google Tasks<\/a>, allowing users to easily import tasks from that platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Sunsama<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>14-day free trial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$16\/month (if billed annually)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for: <\/strong>Multitaskers and professionals who feel their work-life balance leaves room for improvement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"2-noisli-best-for-deep-focus\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#2: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.noisli.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Noisli<\/a> \u2014 best for deep focus<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"526\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Noisli-1110x526.jpg\" alt=\"Noisli\" class=\"wp-image-32337\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Noisli-1110x526.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Noisli-633x300.jpg 633w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Noisli-768x364.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Noisli-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Noisli.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Noisli lets you choose different ambient sounds that suit your workflow, from nature noises to office chatter. Personally, it helped me with deep work that requires more focus than regular tasks.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In essence, Noisli helps me focus by setting a timer in combination with specific sounds. Then, I simply start the timer and focus on writing until it\u2019s time to take a well-deserved break.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"494\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-sound-playlists-in-Noisli.png\" alt=\"Creating sound playlists in Noisli\" class=\"wp-image-32339\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-sound-playlists-in-Noisli.png 300w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-sound-playlists-in-Noisli-182x300.png 182w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-sound-playlists-in-Noisli-7x12.png 7w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Creating sound playlists in Noisli\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>I used it in combination with the <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/pomodoro-technique\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pomodoro technique<\/a> and found it quite helpful for smoothly separating work and break sessions. In the process, I set the timer to play my Focus mix for 25 minutes, and then a Relax mix for my 5-minute break.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a writer, I thought one feature was particularly useful \u2014 Noisli\u2019s built-in text editor. As I write, the background color subtly changes in rhythm with the ambient sounds. The feature is meant to keep you engaged and focused, and it worked wonders for me.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Noisli pros: <\/strong>The ability to mix various ambient sounds, as opposed to just playing them.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Noisli cons: <\/strong>The free plan has a daily time limit, so you probably need the paid version for long-term work use.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Noisli: <\/strong>In 2024, Noisli implemented its Oscillation feature, which periodically changes the volume of each sound within a sound combination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Noisli<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>3-month free trial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$10\/month (if billed annually)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, Chrome extension<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best value for:<\/strong> Individuals who focus better with audio stimulations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"3-todoist-best-for-to-do-list-management\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#3: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.todoist.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Todoist<\/a> \u2014 best for to-do list management<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"356\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/todoist-1110x356.jpg\" alt=\"Todoist\" class=\"wp-image-32341\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/todoist-1110x356.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/todoist-730x234.jpg 730w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/todoist-768x246.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/todoist-18x6.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/todoist.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Todoist\u2019s premise is simple \u2014 it\u2019s a task manager where you can create lists and cards for each task.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For me, the most useful feature is that the lists can be broken down into smaller tasks or subgroups with more assignees. This allowed me to easily collaborate with my teammates on any task.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a writer who collaborates with editors, designers, and managers, this is extremely helpful.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"847\" height=\"625\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-a-subtask-in-Todoist.jpg\" alt=\"Creating a subtask in Todoist\" class=\"wp-image-32342\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-a-subtask-in-Todoist.jpg 847w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-a-subtask-in-Todoist-407x300.jpg 407w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-a-subtask-in-Todoist-768x567.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Creating-a-subtask-in-Todoist-16x12.jpg 16w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 847px) 100vw, 847px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Creating a subtask in Todoist\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Todoist also supports natural language inputs via its Task Quick Add function. Here, I can just write \u201cCreate a task reminding me to check on project progress each Friday #Project4\u201d \u2014 and Todoist will automatically create a recurring task and assign it to Project 4.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To be honest, I only used this feature a couple of times. Even though it\u2019s a unique option that most work efficiency tools don\u2019t provide, I ultimately got things done quicker using the UI.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Todoist pros: <\/strong>Quick sync across a wide range of devices, even including some smartwatches like the Apple Watch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Todoist cons: <\/strong>Many basic features are locked behind paid subscription, including a calendar view for tasks.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Todoist: <\/strong>As of early 2025, Todoist has <a href=\"https:\/\/www.todoist.com\/help\/categories\/product-updates\/whats-new\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">introduced a calendar layout<\/a> for its tasks, making it easier to manage recurring tasks and more time-sensitive projects.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Todoist<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>No<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$4\/user\/month (billed yearly)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for<\/strong>: People who need a personal task manager that syncs across all devices.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"4-notion-best-for-block-based-notes\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#4: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.notion.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Notion<\/a> \u2014 best for block-based notes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"577\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/notion-1110x577.jpg\" alt=\"Notion\" class=\"wp-image-32343\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/notion-1110x577.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/notion-577x300.jpg 577w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/notion-768x399.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/notion-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/notion.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Notion is the most popular block-based note editor, making it one of the most widely used productivity apps in the world.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Notion, everything you write or import exists as a block \u2014 a heading, a checklist, a text paragraph, an image, etc. I can move these building blocks around my document by simply holding and moving them with my cursor.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Adding-a-new-block-in-Notion-600x630.png\" alt=\"Adding a new block in Notion\" class=\"wp-image-32344\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Adding-a-new-block-in-Notion-600x630.png 600w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Adding-a-new-block-in-Notion-286x300.png 286w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Adding-a-new-block-in-Notion-11x12.png 11w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Adding-a-new-block-in-Notion.png 646w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Adding a new block in Notion\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>It may seem like a minor change compared to traditional note-taking apps, but it introduces a whole new world of flexibility. For me, it\u2019s much simpler to format and edit a page in Notion with different elements \u2014 embedded calendars, to-do lists, screenshots \u2014 than in a Google Docs or a Microsoft Word document.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plus, I can arrange Notion\u2019s pages into a hierarchical structure that makes sense to me \u2014 making it easy to find any page at any time.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"436\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Page-hierarchy-in-Notion-436x630.png\" alt=\"Page hierarchy in Notion\" class=\"wp-image-32345\" style=\"width:436px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Page-hierarchy-in-Notion-436x630.png 436w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Page-hierarchy-in-Notion-208x300.png 208w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Page-hierarchy-in-Notion-8x12.png 8w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Page-hierarchy-in-Notion.png 454w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 436px) 100vw, 436px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Page hierarchy in Notion\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>However, I found it frustrating that Notion is online-only, even with the desktop version. If I\u2019m in a place with an unstable Internet connection, my edits don\u2019t always get saved \u2014 which can be annoying, especially with work notes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Notion pros:<\/strong> Generous free plan for personal use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Notion cons: <\/strong>Steep learning curve for people not used to block-based document editors and content management systems.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Notion: <\/strong>In July 2025, Notion <a href=\"https:\/\/www.notion.com\/releases\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">introduced a new Feed layout<\/a> to its database views, allowing users to view their database changes like a blog feed.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Notion<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>Yes (for business users)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$10\/user\/month (billed annually)&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, macOS, Windows<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for: <\/strong>People used to block-based editors, like technical writers building knowledge bases.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"5-structured-best-for-managing-your-day\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">#5: <a href=\"https:\/\/structured.app\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Structured<\/a> \u2014 best for managing your day<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1110\" height=\"585\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/structured-1110x585.jpg\" alt=\"Structured\" class=\"wp-image-32346\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/structured-1110x585.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/structured-570x300.jpg 570w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/structured-285x150.jpg 285w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/structured-768x404.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/structured-18x9.jpg 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/structured.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Structured is an app for folks who struggle with a lack of structure throughout their day \u2014 myself included.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For me, the visual clarity of the interface was an immediate win. I had a near-zero learning curve, since the entire app consists of a visual timeline for each day. I can scroll through the timeline and add tasks at specific times.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"535\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Adding-a-task-in-Structured-535x630.png\" alt=\"Adding a task in Structured\" class=\"wp-image-32347\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Adding-a-task-in-Structured-535x630.png 535w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Adding-a-task-in-Structured-255x300.png 255w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Adding-a-task-in-Structured-768x905.png 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Adding-a-task-in-Structured-10x12.png 10w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Adding-a-task-in-Structured.png 1226w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 535px) 100vw, 535px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Adding a task in Structured\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Creating tasks is simple, since I only have to adjust a couple of options. You can also color-code each task differently, though I stuck with the default, soothing orange for all tasks.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The app isn\u2019t rocket science, and it won\u2019t help you meticulously manage complex tasks at work. However, it gave me some much-needed structure. I found comfort in the way my day slowly unfolded on the visual timeline, as I moved from bubble to bubble \u2014 each representing a distinct part of my day.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It also features an Inbox for storing random thoughts and tasks that haven&#8217;t been assigned a specific time yet. I used it to get rid of mental clutter and spontaneous thoughts during the day quite often.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Structured pros:<\/strong> Bubbles representing tasks slowly shrink as their scheduled time passes, making it easy to see how much time you\u2019ve got left.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Structured cons: <\/strong>Repeated tasks are only available with a subscription, practically making the paid version a must for long-term use.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s new in Structured:<\/strong> In May 2025, <a href=\"https:\/\/structured.app\/blog\/replan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Structured introduced Replan<\/a> \u2014 the option to revisit unfinished tasks and choose how to deal with them.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Structured<\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Free plan<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Free trial<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cheapest paid plan<\/td><td>$1.67\/month (billed annually)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Availability<\/td><td>Android, iOS, Web, MacOS, Windows, Linux<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best fit for:<\/strong> People who prefer to structure their day with a visual timeline.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"frequently-asked-questions-about-the-best-productivity-tools\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently asked questions about the best productivity tools<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that you know more about top productivity software, I\u2019ll answer some of the Internet\u2019s most common questions on the topic:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"what-is-the-best-tool-for-productivity\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the best tool for productivity?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The best tool for productivity depends on what you want to achieve. For example, I use Clockify for time tracking, Superlist for AI note-taking, and IFTTT for various daily automations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"what-is-the-333-rule-for-productivity\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the 333 rule for productivity?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.inc.com\/jessica-stillman\/productivity-time-management-oliver-burkeman-333-method.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">333 Rule for Productivity<\/a> is a productivity method developed by author Oliver Burkeman. To be truly productive each day, Burkeman\u2019s newsletter recommends we:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Work 3 hours<\/strong> on a crucial project without interruption,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Work on 3 urgent tasks<\/strong> that don\u2019t take a lot of time, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Work on 3 maintenance activities<\/strong> as a part of our professional or personal routines.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This framework was designed to instill a sense of accomplishment and control each workday.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"what-is-the-1-productivity-app\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the #1 productivity app?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The #1 productivity app for me is Clockify. It shows me how much time I spend in all other apps and how much I\u2019m actually getting done.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"what-are-the-3-major-productivity-tools\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the 3 major productivity tools?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The three major productivity tools I use, besides Clockify, are Evernote, Trello, and Notion. I use Evernote for storing research, Trello for simple task management, and Notion for my long-term knowledge base.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"mastering-your-workflow-with-the-cake-com-bundle\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mastering your workflow with the CAKE.com Bundle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are various productivity apps you can incorporate into your daily routine to help you stay productive and improve your workflow. However, many of them don\u2019t integrate well with each other, and paying for the best productivity tools can be expensive.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The CAKE.com Bundle is the most cost-effective solution for businesses of all sizes. It provides access to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Clockify<\/strong> for time tracking,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pumble<\/strong> for team communication, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Plaky<\/strong> for project management.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These web productivity tools integrate in various useful ways. For example, you can set up Pumble notifications to remind you to track time in Clockify, and Clockify\u2019s browser extension lets you track time on specific projects directly in Plaky.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Introducing: CAKE.com Account\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/xTWMpZcDmco?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>You can use a single account to log into all 3 apps, and the CAKE.com Bundle provides them at a fraction of the cost of most individual productivity apps.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Supercharge your productivity without increasing costs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/bundle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Get started with the CAKE.com Bundle<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn all about the best productivity tools for professional and personal use, including the top free and paid apps for beginners in 2025.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":32452,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-451","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-productivity"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/451","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=451"}],"version-history":[{"count":131,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/451\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":36211,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/451\/revisions\/36211"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/32452"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=451"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=451"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=451"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}