Microsoft Project is a project management software that’s commonly used by 35,000+ companies around the globe, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best tool. This forces many individuals, teams and organizations to look for the best Microsoft Project alternatives for effective collaboration and lower prices.

As projects grow in complexity and workforces expand globally, the need for online project management tools is no luxury. There is no lack of Microsoft Project alternatives to choose from, with varying degrees of usefulness and project management features. Microsoft has thrown its considerable weight into the ring with Microsoft Project. While Microsoft Project has become an industry standard in project management, it comes with problems, leaving people to search for the best Microsoft Project alternative.

Why People Look for Microsoft Project Alternatives

Microsoft Project can do much of what you need when planning and managing a project, but it’s not a perfect tool. There are many reasons why people who use it are searching for Microsoft Project alternatives.

That’s why we’ve tried many other project management solutions on the market and have gathered the best Microsoft Project alternatives so you can try them yourself. We’ll get to those in a moment, but first, let’s outline the reasons people are dissatisfied with Microsoft Project.

• Steep Learning Curve for Users: Microsoft Project is not for beginners. The software is very technical and not user-friendly. That might be fine if you have an advanced degree in project management, but for the rest of us, it’s going to require a lot of work, time and training to get a handle on how to use the tool. Why do that when you can simply use one of the best MS Project alternatives?
• No Microsoft Project Mobile App on Android or iOS: It’s hard to imagine a project management software in 2026 without a mobile app, but somehow Microsoft Project doesn’t have one. This is going to severely limit your team’s ability to update tasks from the field. This may be reason enough to find an MS Project alternative for some.
• Poor Team Communication, Even on Microsoft 365: Microsoft Project falls short in this category. You can’t easily message your team in the app, which means you’re going to have to jump onto one of the messaging tools that Microsoft offers, such as Teams, Outlook or Skype. Why do you want an add-on when it’s so much more efficient to choose a Microsoft Project alternative?
• Microsoft Project Doesn’t Integrate with External Apps: While MS Project works okay with other Microsoft products, that’s not the case if you want to use a tool outside of the Microsoft family of apps. So, if you’re looking to integrate with Salesforce, Slack or other tools, you’re probably going to find yourself frustrated and looking for MS Project alternatives.
• Microsoft Project Pricing is Confusing and Expensive: If money is your bottom line, then Microsoft Project’s price tag will be a tough pill to swallow. The current editions of Microsoft Project, Project Standard 2024 and Project Professional 2024 are sold as a one-time purchase for $679.99 and $1,129.99 respectively. What makes matters worse is that you have to pay for each license. You may have to selectively license MS Project to your team. Luckily there are low-cost and even free Microsoft Project alternatives in the market.
• It’s Hard to Share Data with Other Project Management Software: It’s almost as if Microsoft Project doesn’t want your team to work together. If anyone on your team works on an Apple product, they’re out of luck. It’s such a problem that a cottage industry of online tools has emerged that offer ways to take MPP files, convert them into friendlier formats to edit and share and then convert them back to MS Project files. That’s not very efficient!

What Should You Consider When Comparing Microsoft Project Alternatives?

Before putting this list together, we didn’t just skim feature pages or rely on marketing claims. We spent time comparing Microsoft project alternatives and reviewing each of them based on how they actually perform in real project environments, weighing usability, functionality and long-term value to determine which tools truly stand out and deserve to be ranked higher.

• Price: Look beyond subscription cost and evaluate what features are included at each pricing tier.
• Ease of Adoption: Tools should be intuitive enough for teams to start using without heavy training.
• Project Planning Features: Must support task organization, work breakdown structures and clear definition of deliverables.
• Project Scheduling Features: Gantt charts, dependencies and milestones help build and adjust realistic project timelines.
• Project Tracking Features: Should allow teams to monitor progress, update tasks and quickly identify delays.
• Project Reporting Features: Dashboards and reports should provide clear visibility into performance and project health.
• Resource Management Features: Help balance workloads, track availability and avoid team overallocation or underuse.
• Cost Management Features: Enable estimating, tracking and comparing planned versus actual project costs.
• Risk Management Features: Should help identify, assess and monitor risks before they impact project outcomes.
• Integrations: Ability to connect with other tools ensures smoother workflows and better data consistency.
• Methodology Support: Should accommodate Agile, Waterfall or hybrid approaches without forcing rigid workflows.

What Types of Microsoft Project Alternatives Are There?

Once you start looking into microsoft project alternatives, it becomes obvious pretty quickly that they’re not all trying to do the same thing. Some tools are built to cut costs, others focus on making collaboration easier and a few are designed to fix very specific limitations teams run into with Microsoft Project.

Each type of microsoft project alternatives addresses a different pain point, whether that’s pricing, accessibility, system compatibility or the need for more control over how the software works.

• Free Microsoft Project Alternatives: If cost is the main issue, free tools are usually the first place teams look. They tend to cover the basics like task lists, simple Gantt charts or project timelines, but you’ll often notice limitations once projects get more complex. Still, they’re a solid option if you just need something functional without the upfront investment.
• Cloud-based Microsoft Project Alternatives: One of the biggest shifts in project management software is moving everything online. Cloud-based tools let teams access schedules, update tasks and collaborate in real time without worrying about installing software or sending files back and forth. It’s a much smoother way to keep everyone aligned, especially for distributed teams.
• Microsoft Project Alternatives for Mac Users: Anyone who’s tried to run Microsoft Project on a Mac knows it’s not exactly straightforward. These alternatives solve that problem by either being browser-based or fully compatible with macOS, so you can manage project timelines and dependencies without jumping through technical hoops.
• Open-Source Microsoft Project Alternatives: Some teams don’t just want to use a tool, they want to shape how it works. Open-source options make that possible by giving access to the underlying code, which means you can customize features, build integrations and avoid being locked into a vendor’s ecosystem. It’s not for everyone, but it’s powerful if you have the technical resources.

20 Best Microsoft Project Alternatives of 2026

There are many Microsoft Project alternatives in the market, each of which has key features and characteristics that make them unique. The following list includes free, freemium, cloud-based or open-source options. Look through them and decide the best Microsoft Project alternative for you.

1. ProjectManager

ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that tops our list for its incredibly rich project data, competitive pricing and compatibility with Mac. This is an excellent Microsoft Project alternative because it helps you plan and schedule projects while delivering real-time updates with live dashboards and powerful reporting tools to continuously improve analysis and performance. And there’s a free 30-day trial so you can try it out, risk-free.

Award-winning Gantt Charts for Precise Project Schedules

ProjectManager’s Gantt chart software is unmatched: no other Microsoft Project alternative offers four types of dependencies, baseline tracking, real-time workload data, critical path filtering and more. Of course, not everyone works the same, which is why you get access to five different project views including Gantt, kanban, task list, spreadsheet and calendar. As teams execute tasks, even on the mobile app, data is updated instantly across the software offering reliable dashboards and reporting.

Get All the Robust Features, Plus Mac Compatibility

ProjectManager not only works on all Mac products but it does nearly everything that MS Project does, faster, easier and at a lower price point, which puts it at the top of the best Microsoft Project alternatives list. You can collaborate without jumping through hoops and manage schedules, resources, workload and much more. Plus, ProjectManager has real-time dashboards that compile data instantly, streamlining analysis and reporting tasks.

Intuitive Resource Management

In addition to best-in-class project planning features, ProjectManager also offers a painless resource management experience. When scheduling tasks, real-time resource availability appears, so the workload is always balanced. When the project gets underway, you can use the team page to see all the tasks your team is working on in one place. Filter by team type, project and date range to stay on top of your team’s progress. Click on a task to make updates, or reallocate work instantly. You can’t get that level of team management and collaboration in Microsoft Project.

As a bonus, ProjectManager offers a seamless import and export of MPP files. If some team members still use Microsoft Project, it’s never been easier to collaborate on MPP files and project plans. It’s so simple that you might just convince them to make the switch to this Microsoft Project alternative, too. There isn’t a more powerful, yet easy-to-use software in this Microsoft Project alternatives list. See for yourself with a free 30-day trial. 

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Project Management

ProjectManager Pros & Key Features

• Offers versatile views including Gantt charts, kanban boards, task lists and calendars, allowing teams to visualize and manage projects in the style that best fits their workflow and preferences
• Robust planning, scheduling, tracking and resource management tools enable detailed project planning with task dependencies, critical path analysis, real-time progress tracking and efficient allocation and leveling of resources to optimize productivity
• Fully accessible via web browsers on Mac devices, ProjectManager provides secure cloud storage without file limits, ensuring seamless collaboration and easy access to documents from anywhere
• Enables users to import, view, and edit Microsoft Project files, making it a great bridge for teams transitioning from or collaborating with Microsoft Project users
• Equipped with features tailored to support complex project hierarchies, portfolio oversight and multi-project coordination, making it a strong choice for formal PMO environments
• Offers a risk-free opportunity to explore the software’s full range of features before committing, helping teams evaluate fit and usability
• Mobile apps for Android and iOS ensure users can manage tasks, update progress and communicate on the go

ProjectManager Cons & Limitations

• While reporting tools are robust, some users find the customization options restrictive when trying to generate highly specific or unique reports
• Although useful, the mobile app doesn’t offer the full suite of desktop functionalities, which can limit productivity when working solely from mobile devices
• Fewer integrations than other Microsoft Project alternatives in this list
• No free plan to test out the software before making a purchase, though there is a 30-day free trial

ProjectManager Pricing

• Team: $15.00 user/month, billed annually
• Business: $28.00 user/month, billed annually
• Enterprise: contact sales for a custom quote

ProjectManager Reviews

• G2 review: 4.4/5
• Capterra review: 4.1/5
• GetApp review: 4.1/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “ProjectManager works very well with both large and small-scale projects. Being able to use this with anything from a project involving only two members of staff, to hundreds, has been invaluable.” Peter W – from Capterra
• “We used to manage our projects, resources, and reporting in different systems. Enter ProjectManager. We have consolidated systems and work more efficiently.” Jeffrey M – from Capterra
• “Having the full scope of activities and who is responsible to do it, plus the time tracking is excellent.” Flavio M – from G2
• “It has an excellent accounting system capable of calculating the time that a person has used to develop a task that was assigned to him, I like being able to collaborate with all my colleagues in the Finance sector through ProjectManager.” Jesus C – from G2
• “The UI of the application is user-friendly, and it helps to identify what we are looking for with minimal effort.” Pavan H – from G2
• “It’s a solid platform and has very good customer service. you can send collaboration invitations to your customers or partners, without the need for a setup or anything extra. What I like is that the website is always online, does not fall and is easy and intuitive to manage.” Aleksei V – from GetApp

2. Wrike

Wrike is an MS Project alternative that makes our list because it’s easier to use than Microsoft when planning, tracking and analyzing projects. It’s far more collaborative than Microsoft Project. You can easily invite freelancers, contractors, clients and teams from other departments into the tool for free, which is a nice touch.

Related: Best Wrike Alternatives: Free & Paid Options Ranked

Those planning and collaborative features are great, but you’ll need a good deal of time to get comfortable using them. Don’t forget to add training time to your projects to get everyone up to speed with using Wrike. That doesn’t mean it’s hard to use, just difficult to know which is the right plan for you to move forward with. There are the pricing tiers we outline below, but then they have industry-specific versions of the software that add to the confusion. It’s an expensive project management tool, with user minimums, which might stop users from even exploring it as an option.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Collaboration & Planning Simplicity

Wrike Pros & Key Features

• Lets non-licensed users view and interact with projects, which makes sharing updates with clients and stakeholders easy without extra cost
• Includes Gantt charts, calendars and kanban boards for flexible workflow management
• Offers a solid free trial so teams can test core features before committing
• Has a free plan with basic project management tools for small teams or individuals
• Mobile apps for Android and iOS make it easy to update tasks and communicate on the go

Wrike Cons & Limitations

• Feels more like a work management tool than a true Microsoft Project alternative for complex projects
• Gantt charts lack key features like cost tracking, resource planning and workload balancing
• Limited project tracking, reporting and analytics compared to more advanced tools
• Pricing requires a minimum number of users, which can be expensive for small teams
• The interface can feel cluttered and takes time to learn

Wrike Pricing

• Free: $0 user/month
• Team: $10 user/month
• Business: $25 user/month
• Pinnacle: contact sales for a custom quote
• Apex: contact sales for a custom quote

Wrike Reviews

• G2 review: 4.2/5
• Capterra review: 4.4/5
• GetApp review: 4.4/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Wrike has become essential in my day and keeps me organized and on top of my tasks.” Paige T – from G2
• “Productivity has been enhanced by removing essential but repetitive chores.” Denise S – from G2
• “It’s a much simpler system compared to the likes of JIRA. It’s great for smaller teams and it’s much quicker and faster to load.” Mohammed M – from GetApp

3. Smartsheet

Smartsheet is an online MS Project alternative that functions like a spreadsheet but adds collaborative features that connect teams. Its focus on collaboration means that the scheduling and task management features are lighter than some might want, but they’re not absent from the tool. It’s powerful like MS Project but more customizable, supporting automation.

Related: Best Smartsheet Alternatives: Free & Paid Options Ranked

However, because of its limited reach in terms of managing projects, users will have to spend extra to get such tools as time tracking, budgeting and resource management. There are no real-time updates, and autosave can be a little slow, which is frustrating if you lose data before it has been saved. If you need advanced project management features, you’ll need to look for other MS Project alternatives.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Spreadsheets and Templates

• Great for teams moving beyond Excel, with a spreadsheet-style interface plus built-in project management features
• Easily exports to Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Project, making it compatible with existing workflows
• Works smoothly on Mac, making it a solid Microsoft Project alternative for Apple users
• Free trial lets you test features before committing
• Mobile apps for Android and iOS allow task updates and team collaboration on the go

Smartsheet Cons & Limitations

• Missing advanced features like critical path analysis, earned value and full scheduling logic
• Relies heavily on spreadsheet-style formulas, which can be hard to learn
• Limited resource planning and workload balancing for larger teams
• Reporting and dashboards lack depth for portfolio-level insights
• No permanent free plan after the trial ends
• Can slow down with large datasets, affecting performance

Smartsheet Pricing

• Pro: $9 user/month, billed annually ($12 billed monthly)
• Business: $19 user/month, billed annually ($24 billed monthly)
• Enterprise: contact sales for a custom quote
• Advanced Work Management: contact sales for a custom quote

Smartsheet Reviews

• G2 review: 4.4/5
• Capterra review: 4.5/5
• GetApp review: 4.5/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Smartsheet has allowed me to take my to-do list and run with it in a way that I didn’t think would be possible.” Victoria W – from G2
• “I like that Smartsheet has a lot of different functions. It can be used for project management, inventory or event planning.” Lauren M – from Capterra
• “SmartSheet is my go-to for project tracking and timelines. It’s like Excel but way smarter. Super flexible for team work too.” Michael J – from GetApp

4. Primavera P6

Primavera P6 is project management software developed by Oracle and used for enterprise portfolio management. It’s a Microsoft Project alternative that is best suited for large-scale and complex projects, often found in construction, engineering and manufacturing. It’s useful for projects that require extensive scheduling, resource management and detailed reporting. In terms of scheduling, there are Gantt charts, critical path analysis and more. For resource management, the software offers resource leveling, allocation and cost management.

Related: What Is Oracle Primavera P6? Uses, Features & Pricing

The trouble with this Microsoft Project alternative is that it’s complicated and has a steep learning curve, especially for new users. Be prepared to devote time for significant training before doing any project work. On top of this, the price of entry is high. This Microsoft Project alternative is more expensive than most project management software when extra licenses and implementation are required. It’s also resource-intensive. Expect substantial computing resources and infrastructure to support it, plus maintenance.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Complex Projects

Primavera Key Features & Benefits:

• Built for large, complex projects in construction and engineering, with advanced scheduling, resource planning, cost control and risk management—more powerful than many Microsoft Project alternatives
• Available as Primavera P6 (on-premise) or Oracle Primavera Cloud, giving flexibility for different IT and security needs
• Oracle Primavera Cloud adds web-based scheduling, portfolio management and cost tracking for better collaboration
• Mobile apps let teams update progress, check schedules and manage tasks from the field
• Handles multiple users and complex projects with detailed role-based permissions

Primavera Cons & Limitations:

• Support often relies on tickets and documentation instead of fast, direct help
• Interface feels outdated and has a steep learning curve
• Powerful but hard to use without training or onboarding
• Documentation can be difficult to navigate and not always clear
• High cost and enterprise pricing make it unrealistic for small teams
• Limited integrations compared to more flexible modern tools

Primavera Pricing

The pricing for Primavera products in this blog comes from the Oracle Primavera Global Price List.

• Primavera P6 Enterprise Project Portfolio Management: $2,750 license price, plus an additional $605 fee for software update license & support
• Primavera P6 Progress Reporter: $950 license price, plus an additional $209 fee for software update license & support
• Primavera P6 Professional Project Management: approx. $2,500 license price, plus an additional $550 fee for software update license & support

Primavera Reviews

• G2 review: 4.4/5
• Capterra review: 4.4/5
• GetApp review: 4.4/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Oracle Primavera Cloud is very user-friendly, has amazing management and scheduling tools which allows good coordination between the team and also saves money and time.” Bruno L – from Capterra
• “Accurate calculation and output data is perfect.” Sameh H – from Capterra
• “The ability to build huge and complex schedules. P6 has been the construction scheduling standard for a while now. The ability to handle the thousands of activities in a large project and adjust to the constant changes of the construction industry.” Blake B – from GetApp

5. Monday.com

Monday is a Microsoft Project alternative that is fun to use, which makes it nearly the polar opposite of Microsoft Project. Monday is a project management software that doesn’t feel like a project management software. It is easy to start customizing workflows, and it has automation to keep users aligned and updated on due dates. Agile users will love the kanban boards for task management and the custom dashboard that tracks progress in real time.

Related: Best Monday.com Alternatives: Free & Paid Options Ranked

If all this sounds like a good MS Project alternative and you want to check it out, you’ll only have two weeks to play around with the trial version or use the free edition, which is limited to two users. That’s not really enough time to get a handle on an app. More a collection of customized spreadsheets than project management software, Monday might fall short of your management needs. For example, there’s no Gantt chart. The timeline they offer is a lightweight attempt to match the power of the Gantt. There are no dependencies, for one, which is sure to cause headaches as you execute your project. But if you’re looking for simple MS Project alternatives, this could be it.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Ease of Use

Monday.com Pros & Key Features

• Clean, visual interface that’s easy for beginners and cross-functional teams to adopt quickly
• Strong collaboration with comments, mentions and real-time updates for managing timelines
• Lets teams update tasks and track progress from anywhere, including mobile
• Free trial available to test premium features before committing
• Good entry-level option with basic tools for small teams or startups

Monday.com Cons & Limitations

• Not ideal for complex project, program or portfolio management
• Reporting lacks the depth and customization of Microsoft Project alternatives
• Better for task tracking than managing dependencies or detailed schedules
• No built-in critical path, cost or resource tracking without integrations
• Key automations and integrations require higher-tier plans
• Pricing scales quickly due to seat minimums and feature tiers

Monday.com Pricing

• Free: $0 user/month
• Basic: $9 user/month, billed annually ($12 billed monthly)
• Standard: $12 user/month, billed annually ($14 billed monthly)
• Pro: $19 user/month, billed annually ($24 billed monthly)
• Enterprise: contact sales for a custom quote

Monday.com Reviews

• G2 review: 4.7/5
• Capterra review: 4.6/5
• GetApp review: 4.6/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “We used to have a mess of excel sheets and emails but now everything’s in one place.” Laura A – from G2
• “It is overall a great product but it requires a lot of setup initially to take advantage of all its functions and features.” Ana D – from Capterra
• “It has a user-friendly interface. And it’s also great for collaboration, like assigning tasks and file sharing. And it’s pretty easy to use.” Andreas C – from GetApp

6. Asana

Asana is a great Microsoft Project alternative that organizes work across all your teams and makes sure everyone is always productive. It’s highly collaborative and tracks tasks and workflows, which makes it an ideal tool for task management. It’s flexible in that regard, and it has some of the best communication tools on this list, including video messaging that can be shared with the team. There are also multiple project views, including kanban boards, lists and calendars.

Related: Asana vs. Microsoft Project: In-Depth Comparison

But, even with all its features and integrations, it still doesn’t mean Asana is a fully equipped Microsoft Project alternative. There are big holes in the platform. For example, there are no resource management tools, no budgeting and expense tracking and other things that project managers have come to expect in project management software. Projects that involve a lot of design work are not going to be happy that you can’t markup or proof visuals. But many will be won over by the design and flexibility when looking for Microsoft Project alternatives.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Task Management

Asana Pros & Key Features

• Simple, intuitive interface that’s easy to adopt compared to Microsoft Project
• Strong collaboration with shared tasks, comments and real-time updates
• Mobile apps let users manage tasks and timelines on the go
• Free plan includes core project management tools for small teams
• Integrates with Microsoft Teams, Outlook and other tools for smoother workflows

Asana Cons & Limitations

• Timeline view lacks features like cost management, capacity planning and resource allocation
• Missing advanced tools like baselines, earned value and multi-project tracking
• Better for team collaboration than enterprise project or portfolio management
• No built-in time tracking, requires integrations
• Limited reporting and analytics compared to Microsoft Project reports
• Advanced automations require third-party tools or API workarounds

Asana Pricing

• Personal: $0 user/month
• Starter: $10.99 user/month, billed annually ($13.49 billed monthly)
• Advanced: $24.99 user/month, billed annually ($30.49 billed monthly)
• Enterprise: contact sales for a custom quote

Asana Reviews

• G2 review: 4.4/5
• Capterra review: 4.5/5
• GetApp review: 4.5/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Asana is very easy to use, intuitive for my team members who don’t have tech backgrounds but need to start and contribute right away.” Sara G – from G2
• “Overall, I had great success staying organized with this project management tool.” Mary B – from Capterra
• “I love how easy it is to share projects there, and one of my favorite features is having a template which can be applied to any project.” Yolandi E – from GetApp

7. Jira

Jira is a Microsoft Project alternative used for project management and issue tracking. It is mostly used in software development but can fit into other types of projects. It is not an apples-to-apples comparison with MS Project, but has similar capabilities, such as task tracking, workflow management and project planning. It can be customized and integrated with other tools and services. It is especially useful for teams working in an agile environment. It also has robust reporting and dashboards.

This Microsoft Project alternative is not ideal for projects run in a waterfall methodology. That’s because there are no Gantt charts, which are the tool of choice for traditional project management. The interface and many of its features, such as the kanban, are not easy to use. Cost can also be an issue if there are going to be multiple team members licensed to the product. Users have reported some performance issues, as well, when managing large projects. That can negatively impact productivity.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Software Development

Jira Pros & Key Features

• Great for tracking bugs, issues and tasks with highly customizable workflows
• Massive Atlassian Marketplace with plugins to match complex project requirements
• Built-in scrum and kanban boards for managing sprints and workflows
• Mobile apps keep teams connected and projects updated on the go
• Reporting tools offer insights into performance and issue tracking

Jira Cons & Limitations

• No native Gantt chart, making timeline planning harder than other Microsoft Project alternatives
• Interface can feel confusing, especially for new or non-agile users
• Steep learning curve for non-technical teams
• Customization can get complex and hard to manage without admins
• Reporting is powerful but not very user-friendly to configure
• Limited resource and cost tracking without add-ons

Jira Pricing

• Free: $0 user/month
• Standard: $7.53 user/month
• Premium: $13.53 user/month
• Enterprise: contact sales for a custom quote

Jira Reviews

• G2 review: 4.3/5
• Capterra review: 4.4/5
• GetApp review: 4.4/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “In my office we use jira for task management and time management, which helps us for team projects with multiple moving parts.” Saili K – from G2
• “Once we got past the learning phase, Jira significantly improved our project efficiency and collaboration.” Abu R – from Capterra
• “Jira is simple and fast to learn. It offers a lot of features and lets you personalize your Jira experience.” Raqel A – from GetApp

8. Microsoft Planner

If you love Microsoft software but feel that Microsoft Project is too much for you, then try Microsoft Planner. Glaringly, there are no Gantt charts, but if that’s not an issue, then this might be worth a try. This Microsoft Project alternative is a lightweight task management tool that specializes in kanban boards and task lists. And to help grease the wheels of collaboration, there are email notifications and calendars for those who need a work management solution.

Related: Best Microsoft Planner Alternatives: Free & Paid Options Ranked

However, it’s a limited tool compared to Microsoft Project, and you’re certainly not going to get the planning and scheduling features of MS Project, much less its resource management and portfolio management features. But, if you just need an online space to manage tasks with your team and you live in the Microsoft universe, try Microsoft Planner instead.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Microsoft Fans

Microsoft Planner Pros & Key Features

• Simple, intuitive interface that teams can pick up quickly without training
• Seamlessly integrates with Microsoft 365 tools like Teams, Outlook and OneDrive
• Basic task management with assignments, due dates, checklists and progress tracking
• Visual kanban-style boards with drag-and-drop task management
• Mobile apps let teams update tasks and collaborate from anywhere
• Free trial makes it easy to test before committing

Microsoft Planner Cons & Limitations

• No Gantt charts or advanced scheduling features for managing timelines and dependencies
• Lacks built-in automation, requiring third-party tools for more complex workflows
• Limited features like resource management, cost tracking and reporting
• Not suitable for large or complex projects or portfolio management
• Limited customization for task views and workflows
• Works best within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, limiting flexibility
• No built-in time tracking or budgeting tools

Microsoft Planner Pricing

Before diving into the pricing plans available for Microsoft Planner, it’s important to understand there are two main versions of this software, Microsoft Planner Basic and Microsoft Planner Premium.

Microsoft Planner Basic
The version included in most Microsoft 365 subscriptions. Good for lightweight task management. Starts from $6 to $22 per user per month, billed annually. Price varies depending on the Microsoft 365 subscription.

• Microsoft 365 Business Basic: $6.00/user/month, billed annually
• Microsoft 365 Business Standard: $12.50/user/month, billed annually
• Microsoft 365 Business Premium: $22.00/user/month, billed annually
• Microsoft 365 Apps for Business: $8.25/user/month, billed annually

Microsoft Planner Premium

The next level up, for users or teams needing more advanced project management features.

• Planner Plan 1: $10/user/month, billed annually
• Planner and Project Plan 3: $30/user/month, billed annually
• Planner and Project Plan 5: $55/user/month, billed annually

For more detailed information about each of these Microsoft Planner plans and the features that are available for each pricing tier, visit our Microsoft Planner blog.

Microsoft Planner Reviews

• G2 review: 4.2/5
• Capterra review: 4.3/5
• GetApp review: 4.3/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Overall, my experience with Microsoft Planner has been very positive, as it has helped my team share tasks and establish procedures to follow.” Alvaro G – from G2
• “Microsoft Planner is great because it’s part of the Microsoft 365 family. It works really well with other Microsoft apps like Teams and Outlook, making it easy to use.” Anand G – from Capterra
• “I loved that I could set up a project plan and assign tasks to individuals. I also like that you can group tasks for different categories, including individuals, task type, priority, etc.” Nicholas B – from GetApp

9. Zoho Projects

Zoho Projects is a Microsoft Project alternative with kanban boards that organize tasks, a social feed that captures updates on those tasks and forums for lengthier discussions. It connects teams to foster productivity and even has a timesheet feature for managers to see how much time each team member spends on their tasks. It offers issue tracking and a Gantt project view.

What it lacks as an MS Project alternative are resource management tools and reporting. In a sense, a manager is flying blind if they can’t generate status reports and then reallocate resources to keep their teams working at capacity. There is also no function for managing more than one project at a time, leaving the tool limited in what it can do for users.

Verdict: Best Low-cost Microsoft Project Alternative

Zoho Projects Pros & Key Features

• Solid project planning features like tasks, milestones and timelines for small teams
• Mobile app supports task updates, time tracking and collaboration on the go
• Offers a free plan and 10-day trial to test premium features
• Includes built-in time tracking, issue tracking and workflow automation
• Integrates with Zoho apps and tools like Google Workspace, Slack and Microsoft Teams

Zoho Projects Cons & Limitations

• Interface isn’t as polished and can feel harder to use for new users
• Gantt charts lack advanced features like critical path and baselines
• Limited resource planning and workload management for complex projects
• Integrations can require extra setup and aren’t always seamless
• Lacks advanced reporting and portfolio tools needed by PMOs
• Customization isn’t as deep as Microsoft Project or other enterprise tools

Zoho Projects Pricing

• Free: $0 user/month, up to five users
• Premium: $4 user/month, billed annually
• Enterprise: $9 user/month, billed annually
• Projects Plus: contact sales for a custom quote

Zoho Projects Reviews

• G2 review: 4.3/5
• Capterra review: 4.5/5
• GetApp review: 4.5/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “What I like most is how it integrates perfectly with the entire Zoho ecosystem.” Emy L – from G2
• “While the UI and the setup were slightly complicated, Zoho Projects helps you track your projects efficiently.” Shria G – from Capterra
• “It was excellent, I liked it, maybe in the future we will take it into account as our project manager. In the meantime we will use the free” Mario D – from GetApp

10. Airtable

Airtable is a cloud-based Microsoft Project alternative that combines elements of a spreadsheet with the functionality of a database. User-friendly and customizable, users can manage projects across multiple views, such as grid, calendar, kanban and gallery. Those already familiar with spreadsheets will find adapting to this tool easy, there are several pre-built templates for project management, content planning and CRM to help get teams started. It’s also collaborative, has automation for repetitive tasks and a mobile app for iOS and Android.

While there are multiple project views, there is no Gantt chart, which is a foundational project planning and scheduling tool, on any but the top-tier subscription accounts. In fact, its scheduling tools are generally limited. Even though it has some automation, this, too, is limited and might require third-party apps. Even its task management is problematic as setting up tasks and subtasks can be complicated. The Microsoft Project alternative also lacks resource leveling and can link all dependencies, which can create costly delays, and detailed reporting features. This tool simply isn’t suitable for large projects and those who do try it will find the cost prohibitively expensive.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Building Apps

Airtable Pros & Key Features

• Spreadsheet-style interface that’s easy to learn compared to Microsoft Project
• Real-time collaboration with comments and multi-user editing
• Links records across tables to manage dependencies, budgets and workflows
• Large template library for project tracking, content and operations
• Multiple views including grid, kanban, calendar and Gantt-style layouts

Airtable Cons & Limitations

• Advanced features require higher-tier plans, which get expensive at scale
• Record limits can restrict large or complex projects
• Attachment storage limits can be an issue for file-heavy teams
• Advanced customization often requires scripting or integrations
• Lacks strong resource planning and portfolio management features
• Relies on add-ons for advanced scheduling and resource tracking

Airtable Pricing

• Free: $0 user/month
• Team: $20 user/month, billed annually ($24 billed monthly)
• Business: $45 user/month, billed annually ($54 billed monthly)
• Enterprise Scale: contact sales for a custom quote

Airtable Reviews

• G2 review: 4.6/5
• Capterra review: 4.7/5
• GetApp review: 4.7/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “A lot of templates to start with. Highly customizable.” Jean D. – from Capterra
• “When you got a table up and running it was super effective.” Matt H. – from Capterra
• “I like how easily I can see data no matter how large. I can sort and create various views with ease.” Samantha P – from GetApp

11. Notion

Notion is a workspace tool that can be a strong Microsoft Project alternative depending on one’s needs. It’s an all-in-one workspace that combines note-taking, task management, database management and collaborative features. It has a more user-friendly interface than Microsoft Project, which is designed to be intuitive and doesn’t require a great deal of training.

Users who are looking for a Microsoft Project alternative with detailed Gantt charts, resource leveling and automated scheduling will be disappointed. Notion has limited advanced project management features. It’s also going to be a better fit for smaller teams or even individual use. Those looking to scale up to larger projects will become frustrated by Notion’s flexibility and look for a more specialized project management tool instead.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Notetaking

Notion Pros & Key Features

• Flexible task boards, kanban views and calendars for managing projects and deadlines
• All-in-one workspace for notes, wikis and docs linked to tasks and projects
• Custom databases with filters and views, offering spreadsheet-like flexibility
• Highly customizable workflows, dashboards and templates without heavy setup
• Clean, minimalist interface that’s easy to use but still powerful

Notion Cons & Limitations

• No built-in Gantt charts, resource planning or advanced scheduling tools
• Lacks native time tracking and project costs management
• Automation requires third-party tools like Zapier or Make
• Performance can slow down with large or complex databases
• Advanced features like formulas and relations take time to learn
• Limited export options can cause formatting or data issues

Notion Pricing

• Free: $0 user/month
• Plus: $10.00 user/month, billed annually
• Business: $20.00 user/month, billed annually
• Enterprise: contact sales for a custom quote

Notion Reviews

• G2 review: 4.7 / 5
• Capterra review: 4.7 / 5
• GetApp review: 4.7/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “I usually use it as a note taking, studying board, planner and even to organize my financial life – it is all my life in one place.” Fabiane C. – from G2
• “Originally a really good UI, available on multiple platforms, very dynamic and responsive.” Keith P – from Capterra
• “Love the easy to use interface, flexibility to create whatever tools you want, unlimited data and file uploads, Notion charts and automations.” Arjan S – from GetApp

12. Procore

Procore is a Microsoft Project alternative that is used in larger construction projects. It’s not a direct replacement for MS Project, as it’s focused on construction project management. However, it does have robust tools for managing project timelines, tasks and documentation, including scheduling, budgeting and resource management. Real-time collaboration keeps communication between general contractors, subcontractors and stakeholders, which reduces risks of misunderstandings and delays. There’s also a mobile app and integration with third-party tools.

Related: Best Procore Alternatives: Free & Paid Options Ranked

While the Microsoft Project alternative has Gantt charts and project calendars, these are the only scheduling tools available. Users might expect more views, considering the high cost of the product, which only increases when more users are added. Needless to say, this is not the software one is going to choose to run projects outside of construction. It’s simply designed for construction project management and little else. Like other complicated software products, this has a steep learning curve. Smaller projects, even small construction projects, are not going to be appropriate for this software. It would be overkill. One reason is that the setup and integration of Procore with existing systems is time-consuming and complex.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Large Construction Projects

Procore Pros & Key Features

• Built for large construction projects, managing multiple sites, teams and subcontractors
• Centralizes drawings, specifications, contracts and RFIs for real-time access
• Tracks budgets, change orders and costs to help control overruns
• Includes tools for labor tracking, workforce management and timesheets
• Integrates with Microsoft Project and Primavera P6 for scheduling
• Mobile apps support field updates, reporting and communication

Procore Cons & Limitations

• Limited scheduling views compared to other Microsoft Project alternatives
• Complex scheduling tools with a steep learning curve
• Weak resource planning and workload management features
• Gantt charts lack built-in cost tracking at the task level
• No free plan or trial to test the software
• Pricing is high and typically requires custom quotes

Procore Pricing

• Contact sales for a custom quote

Procore Reviews

• G2 review: 4.6 / 5
• Capterra review: 4.5 / 5
• GetApp review: 4.5/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Procore is a great tool for Construction professionals. The feature set is very tailored to construction related tasks.” Mark T – from Capterra
• “If you are willing to read and follow along with everything presented it will be incredibly helpful.” Mathew K – from G2
• “Management of projects with Procore is smooth and straightforward. You are able to share large volume data and documents. It’s a tool that enhances team collaboration.” Agasti S – from GetApp

13. Paymo

Paymo is comprehensive project management software with time tracking and invoicing capabilities so business owners and project managers can track project success. Its automatic time tracker makes Paymo a tough contender in the project management ring.

Task management is straightforward, with multiple assignees, priorities, customizable statuses, and project views including list, table, kanban, calendar and Gantt. There’s also an extra meta-Kanban view for a bird’s-eye view of your team’s tasks. This MS alternative is a great PM tool, but it has its limitations with third-party applications and can be complex and difficult to use.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Project and Time Tracking

Paymo Pros & Key Features

• Multiple views including Gantt charts, task lists and kanban boards
• Built-in invoicing and payments, great for small businesses
• Strong time tracking for managing billable hours
• Collaboration tools for team communication and file sharing
• Mobile apps for managing projects on the go

Paymo Cons & Limitations

• Limited resource planning for complex workloads or large teams
• Basic reporting compared to advanced project management platforms
• Fewer native integrations with enterprise tools
• Interface can feel cluttered for new users
• Mobile app lacks some desktop features
• Limited workflow and template customization

Paymo Pricing

• Free: $0 user/month
• Starter: $5.90 user/month, billed annually
• Small Office: $10.90 user/month, billed annually
• Business: $16.90 user/month, billed annually

Paymo Reviews

• G2 review: 4.6/5
• Capterra review: 4.7/5
• GetApp review: 4.7/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Paymo has all the capabilities that allows me to save time by automating project and task management procedures.” Larry K – from G2
• “I like the way Paymo has been designed. With its straightforward menu sidebar, it’s easy to access everything your business needs quickly and easily.” Jamie Lee J – from G2
• “All the basics are well integrated from a simple task list to complex product road maps with the invoicing system / expenses that we can sync with our accounting software.” Adami T – from GetApp

14. ClickUp

ClickUp is a project management platform for teams across industries such as marketing, product planning and software development. It offers similar features to Microsoft Project, including Gantt charts, kanban boards, task lists and dashboards. Additionally, ClickUp offers document editing, instant messaging and email management tools. One of the main advantages of this software is the variety of integrations with third-party software, which allows users to customize the software to fit their needs.

Related: Best ClickUp Alternatives: Free & Paid Options Ranked

However, unlike Microsoft Project, ClickUp wasn’t exclusively designed for project management. As a result, some of its features are limited. For example, ClickUp’s Gantt charts don’t allow you to track project costs or the percentage complete of each task, and they don’t track the four types of dependencies that are used in project management. So while ClickUp it’s a versatile tool that can help you manage tasks, teams and workflows, it might not be the best Microsoft Project alternative.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Team Productivity

ClickUp Pros & Key Features

• Strong collaboration tools, including built-in email and team communication
• Highly customizable for different teams, industries and project methodologies
• Multiple views like kanban boards and dashboards for agile workflows
• Advanced task management with priorities, dependencies and automations
• Mobile apps for managing projects and tasks on the go

ClickUp Cons & Limitations

• Feature-heavy interface can feel overwhelming and hard to learn
• Missing advanced tools like deep resource planning and cost tracking
• Exports limited to PDF, reducing flexibility
• Limited project reporting for detailed insights
• No dedicated trial for premium plans
• Performance can slow down on large or complex projects

ClickUp Pricing

• Free: $0 user/month
• Unlimited: $7 user/month, billed annually
• Business: $12 user/month, billed annually
• Enterprise: contact sales for a custom quote

ClickUp Reviews

• G2 review: 4.7/5
• Capterra review: 4.6/5
• GetApp review: 4.6/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Good for operational tasks and customer support.” Hovhannes G – from G2
• “ClickUp sits right in the middle between typical task management tools and business platforms.” Pawel M – from Capterra
• “ClickUp enables teams to stay in sync by facilitating collaboration on a single activity where all participants can see each other’s contributions, comments, and status updates.” Kelly M B – from GetApp

15. GanttPRO

If you’re a small team in need of a Microsoft Project alternative with Gantt charts, GanttPRO may be right for you. Like Microsoft Project, its primary feature is the Gantt chart, and you’ll find that it’s fairly robust when it comes to planning and scheduling. And, when compared to Microsoft Project, it’s quite easy to use. Plus, there’s a kanban board feature for those who aren’t comfortable using the Gantt.

However, the Gantt is about all it does well. When it comes to tracking and reporting, it falls behind the pack. Furthermore, if you need to do billing or invoicing, you’ll have to rely on integrations to get it done. Unforutnately, its integrations aren’t very robust either, so you may find yourself using other tools in addition to this Gantt-heavy Microsoft Project alternative.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative with a Gantt for Small Teams

GanttPRO Pros & Key Features

• Exports to PDF, PNG and Excel for easy sharing with stakeholders
• Simple to share and collaborate on projects, even with external users
• Includes cost tracking to estimate, assign rates and monitor budgets
• 14-day free trial with full access to premium features
• Mobile apps for managing timelines and tasks on the go

GanttPRO Cons & Limitations

• No bulk timesheets, only basic task-level time tracking
• Limited reporting and project health insights
• Few native integrations, often requires third-party tools
• No free plan for long-term use
• Limited customization for workflows and reports
• Not suited for large or complex projects with advanced needs

GanttPRO Pricing

• Core: $7.99 user/month, billed annually
• Advanced: $12.99 user/month, billed annually
• Business: $19.99 user/month, billed annually
• Enterprise: Contact sales for a custom quote

GanttPRO Reviews

• G2 review: 4.8/5
• Capterra review: 4.8/5
• GetApp review: 4.8/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “I especially enjoy the collaboration feature where I can invite colleagues to edit tasks and timelines in the live document. I have moved from using Google Sheets.” Glen K – from G2
• “GantPro software offers a seamless project management experience with its intuitive interface and robust features.” Dixie F – from Capterra
• “Extremely detailed and helpful for the project management of our college FSAE team. Could create a 14 month timeline with ease thanks to the great user interface. Helps assign and track tasks as well.” Kritik M – from GetApp

16. Trello

Trello is a tool that manages projects and helps teams collaborate. This software uses a kanban board interface that allows users to visualize their workflow. It provides transparency and fosters collaboration. It has real-time updates, which is a plus and has easy onboarding for teams. It’s a fun and easy-to-use MS Project alternative, which is why it made it number five on our list.

Related: Best Trello Alternatives: Free & Paid Options Ranked

But, as a fully-fledged Microsoft Project alternative, Trello falls short. It has a project bar chart instead of a Gantt. While that feature might try to mimic the usefulness of a Gantt it doesn’t set a baseline to track your actual progress against your planned effort, there are no inter-project dependencies and it can’t filter for the critical path in your schedule. Since it’s not the best project management software, Trello is recommended only for basic project management features.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Kanban Boards

Trello Pros & Key Features

• Easy to use on Mac and web, with no setup or compatibility issues
• Flexible boards, lists and cards for agile project management
• Integrates with tools like Slack, Google Drive, Jira and Teams
• Mobile apps support task updates and real-time collaboration
• Free trial available to test premium features

Trello Cons & Limitations

• Basic features compared to more advanced Microsoft Project alternatives
• No native Gantt charts or advanced scheduling tools
• Requires Power-Ups or integrations to match advanced functionality
• Lacks features for governance and portfolio management
• Limited reporting and analytics without external tools

Trello Pricing

• Free: $0 user/month
• Standard: $5 user/month, billed annually
• Premium: $10 user/month, billed annually
• Enterprise: $17.50 user/month, billed annually

Trello Reviews

• G2 review: 4.4/5
• Capterra review: 4.5/5
• GetApp review: 4.5/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “I use it at work for my daily tasks and I also use it at home for a variety of different things.” Michelle J – from G2
• “Aside from the UI being rather outdated, overall, Trello has streamlined our workflow significantly.” Peter Z – from Capterra
• “I used it in a company I was working at, and I also used it in a personal project, and both times it was a great tool.” Carina R – from GetApp

17. Basecamp

Basecamp is a Microsoft Project alternative that has team collaboration and is simple to use, two benefits that the notoriously uncollaborative and difficult MS Project can’t touch. Teams looking for a more straightforward and user-friendly solution to Microsoft Project will be attracted to this Microsoft Project alternative. It has task management features and communication tools, such as message boards, team chat and automatic check-ins. It creates a centralized hub for project collaboration.

Related: Best Basecamp Alternatives: Free & Paid Options Ranked

However, it falls short of being a holistic project management tool. That’s because it lacks Gantt charts and resource management features and can’t handle complex dependencies. This Microsoft Project alternative is not suited for projects with detailed scheduling and resource planning. Reporting is limited, which reduces the analytic capabilities that help guide project managers in their decision-making.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Managing Everyday Work

Basecamp Pros & Key Features

• Simple interface for assigning tasks, setting deadlines and tracking progress
• Mobile apps let teams manage projects and communicate from anywhere
• Flat pricing with unlimited users makes it cost-effective for growing teams
• Built-in tools for messaging, chat, file sharing and documents
• Free plan available for small teams or basic use

Basecamp Cons & Limitations

• Basic task management with no dependencies or advanced workflows
• No tools for tracking workloads or resource availability
• No Gantt charts for timeline planning or dependencies
• Limited reporting and analytics for project insights
• No built-in time tracking, requires external tools
• Minimal customization and automation options

Basecamp Pricing

• Basecamp Free: $0 user/month
• Basecamp Plus: $15 user/month
• Basecamp Pro Unlimited: $299/month, unlimited users

Basecamp Reviews

• G2 review: 4.1/5
• Capterra review: 4.3/5
• GetApp review: 4.4/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “As a company, it allows us to flawlessly track all of our conversations, planning, tasks, and project progress.” Özgür K – from G2
• “The interface transforms complex functionalities into an intuitive experience for all users.” Tom G – from G2
• “Basecamp has single page projects that are relatively simple to use. The to-do lists are easy to use as well. Basecamp can also handle large file transfers.” David B – from GetApp

18. Teamwork

Teamwork is an easy-to-use Microsoft Project alternative. It organizes tasks and subtasks, labeling priorities and identifying dependencies to avoid bottlenecks. There are messages at the task level to connect teams as they work on their tasks and time tracking for managers to monitor progress. Like many Microsoft Project alternatives, it also features a Gantt chart view.

There’s a free version that has limited features. Reviewing all these apps shows the shortcomings of MS Project when it comes to teamwork, hence the name of this product. However, the tool isn’t great for every type of collaboration. For example, you can’t mark up files, which is a problem if teams are working on visual materials. But it’s still miles ahead of MS Project and other Microsoft project management software.

Verdict: Best Microsoft Project Alternative for Team Collaboration

Teamwork Pros & Key Features

• Supports task lists, subtasks, dependencies and milestones with an easy drag-and-drop interface
• Built-in time tracking, timesheets and invoicing for managing billable work
• Free trial lets teams test premium features before committing
• Mobile apps mirror desktop functionality for managing work on the go
• Includes workload management, portfolio views and client access controls

Teamwork Cons

• Gantt charts lack advanced features like critical path and baselines
• Reporting is basic, with limited dashboards and analytics
• Geared more toward agencies than general or technical teams
• Requires a minimum number of users on paid plans
• Advanced features can take time to learn and set up
• Full functionality often requires additional tools or integrations

Teamwork Pricing

• Free: $0 user/month
• Deliver: $10.99 user/month, billed annually
• Grow: $19.99 user/month, billed annually
• Scale: Contact sales for a custom quote

Teamwork Reviews

• G2 review: 4.4/5
• Capterra review: 4.5/5
• GetApp review: 4.5/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “It’s a great tool for unifying developers, designers and everyone involved in a project, needing little training.” Brett W – from G2
• “Can also be used for personal projects, tasks, planning and dreaming/distractions, to get the info out of your head and recorded in a central system.” Jacki B – from G2
• “Teamwork makes it super easy to handle repetitive task-and-project management procedures via real-time automation.” Oyekanmi O – from GetApp

19. GanttProject

GanttProject has one giant advantage over MS Project and even most of the Microsoft Project alternatives—it’s free. Gantt charts are the heavy lifters in project management and a free one is sure to be attractive. Especially one that’s easy to use and that can export documents to MS Project. That means this could prove a major asset to MS Project users.

Related: What Is GanttProject? Pros, Cons & Alternatives

That is also its deterrent. You’re still wedded to MS Project. Though, perhaps you’d use GanttProject all by itself to manage your project. After all, Gantt charts are great tools. The problem is that this Gantt is limited in what it can do. For this free MS Project alternative, you’re going to have to use a suite of other apps to get the project management features that MS Project offers.

Verdict: Best Free Microsoft Project Alternative for Gantt Charts

GanttProject Pros & Key Features

• Open-source and free, ideal for teams needing a no-cost, customizable solution
• Simple interface for building Gantt charts with tasks, dependencies and milestones
• Supports task hierarchies, resource assignments and critical path tracking
• No subscriptions or user limits, making it accessible for small teams
• Works on Windows, macOS and Linux with export options and MS Project compatibility

GanttProject Cons & Limitations

• Very limited features compared to modern Microsoft Project alternatives
• No dashboards, kanban boards or capacity planning tools
• Desktop-only with no cloud or real-time collaboration
• No mobile app for managing projects on the go
• Outdated interface compared to modern tools

GanttProject Pricing

• Free downloadable software

GanttProject Reviews

• G2 review: 4.3/5
• Capterra review: 4.2/5
• GetApp review: 4.2/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Good ability to insert and manage various resources and control the critical activities for the project.” Gianluca M – from G2
• “This software hits what I need which is free and simple to use.” Max P – from Capterra
• “You can have GanttProject for free or low price, and it is very easy to use, export and import projects, print a Gantt or Pert and in addition to project management, we can manage resources and estimate costs.” Alex (Alexandre) M – from GetApp

20. ProjectLibre

ProjectLibre is a free project management software that offers simple project management tools such as task lists, Gantt charts, project dashboards and resource management spreadsheets. Some of its key features include work breakdown structure (WBS) charts, resource histograms and network diagrams. It’s a downloadable open-source software that works on Windows, Mac and Linux computers, and it’s available in over 20 languages. One of its key advantages is that it can be used to view and edit Microsoft Project files without a Microsoft Project license.

Related: What Is ProjectLibre? Pros, Cons & Alternatives

However, while ProjectLibre promotes itself as the best Microsoft Project alternative, it lacks many of the tools that Microsoft Project offers such as timesheets, kanban boards or project management reports. On top of that, its project management features are limited and its user interface is outdated compared to the vast majority of Microsoft Project alternatives.

Verdict: Best Open-source Microsoft Project Alternative

ProjectLibre & Key Features

• Supports 20+ languages, making it a good fit for international teams
• Works on macOS, Windows and Linux, unlike Microsoft Project
• Completely free with no licensing costs, ideal for small teams
• Can open and edit Microsoft Project files (.MPP) for easy migration

ProjectLibre Cons & Limitations

• Outdated interface that can feel hard to use
• Lacks agile tools, dashboards, time tracking and collaboration features
• Basic resource planning with limited forecasting
• No cloud features or real-time collaboration
• No mobile app for managing projects on the go
• Limited support and documentation for new users

ProjectLibre Pricing

• Free downloadable software

ProjectLibre Reviews

• G2 review: 4.2/5
• Capterra review: 4.4/5
• GetApp review: 4.4/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “It’s open-source. It also provides Gantt charts, defining task dependencies, setting milestones and allocating resources.” Tisagh C – from G2
• “I was looking for a cheap or free alternative to MS Project to plan and follow my projects.” Nicolas B – from Capterra
• “This software is free! Also, it is very stable and has been around enough to have good help online and it is easy to import and export.” Max P – from GetApp

Microsoft Project Alternatives FAQs

What Are the Best Free Microsoft Project Alternatives?

Free Microsoft Project alternatives include a mix of fully free tools, freemium plans and free trials. Some platforms like GanttProject and ProjectLibre are completely free and open-source with no usage limits. Others such as ClickUp, Trello and Asana offer free plans with feature restrictions, user caps or storage limits. Many tools like Monday.com, Wrike and Smartsheet provide free trials, which give full access to premium features for a limited time before requiring a paid subscription.

• ProjectManager (free trial)
• Wrike (free plan + free trial)
• Smartsheet (free trial)
• Monday.com (free plan + free trial)
• Asana (free plan)
• Jira (free plan)
• Microsoft Planner (included with Microsoft 365 subscription)
• Zoho Projects (free plan)
• Airtable (free plan)
• Notion (free plan)
• Paymo (free plan + free trial)
• ClickUp (free plan)
• GanttPRO (free trial)
• Trello (free plan)
• Basecamp (free trial)
• Teamwork (free plan + free trial)
• GanttProject (fully free)
• ProjectLibre (fully free, open-source)

What Are the Best Cloud-Based Microsoft Project Alternatives?

• ProjectManager
• Wrike
• Smartsheet
• Monday.com
• Asana
• Jira
• Microsoft Planner
• Zoho Projects
• Airtable
• Notion
• Procore
• Paymo
• ClickUp
• GanttPRO
• Trello
• Basecamp
• Teamwork

What Are the Best Microsoft Project Alternatives for Mac?

• ProjectManager
• Wrike
• Smartsheet
• Monday.com
• Asana
• Jira
• Microsoft Planner
• Zoho Projects
• Airtable
• Notion
• Procore
• Paymo
• ClickUp
• GanttPRO
• Trello
• Basecamp
• Teamwork
• GanttProject
• ProjectLibre

What Are the Best Open-Source Microsoft Project Alternatives?

• GanttProject
• ProjectLibre

Related Microsoft Project Content

• Top Microsoft Project Management Software
• Best Project Management Software: Rankings, Reviews & Comparisons
• Best Project Management Software
• Best Microsoft Planner Alternatives
• Best Monday.com Alternatives
• Best Smartsheet Alternatives
• Best ClickUp Alternatives
• Best Wrike Alternatives
• Best Asana Alternatives
• 10 Mejores Alternativas a Microsoft Project (2025)
• 10 meilleures alternatives à Microsoft Project : options gratuites et payantes
• 10 beste Microsoft Project Alternativen: Kostenlose & kostenpflichtige Optionen
• 14 Melhores Alternativas ao Microsoft Project (Gratuitas e Pagas)

ProjectManager is award-winning software that organizes tasks, teams and projects. It’s the best Microsoft alternative, with all the features and none of the frustration. You can use it to import and export MS Project files or better yet, abandon the expensive tool and subscribe to ours with multiple payment tiers. Try it free today.