19 Paid and Free Microsoft Project Alternatives in 2023

Paid and Free Microsoft Project Alternatives

Contents

Microsoft Project, a trusted and feature-rich project management tool, has empowered countless project managers to plan, organize, and execute projects effectively. However, in project management, different teams and organizations have diverse requirements. Some may seek more flexibility, enhanced collaboration, or a more straightforward user interface. 

Our list of 19 paid and free Microsoft Project alternatives come in here. We’ve meticulously curated this collection to provide various options to accelerate your success and propel your project management endeavors to new heights.

Whether you’re a small team or a large organization, these alternatives offer a range of features and functionalities to meet your project management needs. From agile-focused solutions to robust collaboration tools, these alternatives are designed to enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and drive successful project outcomes.

Why do People look for Microsoft Project alternatives?

Microsoft Project is famous for project management, but users seek alternatives due to various reasons:

Why do People look for Microsoft Project alternatives
  • Complexity: Some find Microsoft Project overwhelming and prefer a more straightforward interface.
  • Cost: Paid software may not suit individuals or small teams with limited budgets.
  • Collaboration Needs: Users require enhanced real-time collaboration features.
  • Specific Use Cases: Different industries may need specialized project management tools.
  • Platform and Integration: Seamless integration with other applications is preferred.
  • Scalability: Smaller projects may require more lightweight and agile solutions.
  • Mobile Accessibility: Some users find limited mobile functionality inconvenient.
  • Industry-Specific Features: Industries like construction have unique requirements.

Exploring alternatives helps users find tools that better fit their needs.

How have we picked the best alternatives?

We employed a meticulous selection process to ensure we presented the best alternatives to Microsoft Project. Here’s an overview of how we picked these top alternatives:

  • Extensive Research: Our team conducted in-depth research, analyzing numerous project management tools available in the market. We examined their features, functionalities, user reviews, and overall reputation to identify the most promising candidates.
  • User Feedback: We considered feedback from users with firsthand experience with these alternatives. By examining reviews, testimonials, and user ratings, we gained insights into the strengths and weaknesses of each tool.
  • Feature Comparison: We compared the features and capabilities of each alternative to Microsoft Project. We evaluated factors such as project planning, task management, collaboration tools, reporting capabilities, ease of use, and integrations with other software.
  • Popularity and Market Presence: We assessed the popularity and market presence of the alternatives, taking into account factors such as the number of users, customer base, and industry recognition.
  • Affordability and Pricing: We considered the pricing models and affordability of the alternatives, ensuring that both free and paid options were included to cater to a wide range of budget requirements.

By combining these research methodologies, we aimed to present a well-rounded list of the best Microsoft Project alternatives. However, it’s important to note that the final selection ultimately depends on each user or organization’s unique needs and preferences.

19 Paid & Free alternative to MS Project to Achieve Success

1. Onethread – Empowering Project Management for Success (100 words):

Onethread is a powerful project management app that empowers teams to collaborate effectively and succeed. With its comprehensive features, Onethread enables users to streamline their project management processes and stay organized. 

Onethread

The app allows teams to create projects, assign tasks, track progress, communicate seamlessly, and generate insightful reports. Centralizing project-related information, Onethread enhances collaboration, improves productivity, and ensures project success. 

Its user-friendly interface and affordable pricing make it an ideal choice for businesses of all sizes, providing them with the tools to accelerate success.

Key Features

  • Task Management: Onethread offers robust task management capabilities, allowing users to create, assign, and track tasks with ease.
  • Communication and Collaboration: The app provides in-app messaging and commenting features, facilitating seamless communication and collaboration among team members.
  • Analytics and Reporting: Onethread’s analytics and reporting feature enables users to generate insightful reports on project progress, team performance, and areas for improvement.

Is Onethread Better than Microsoft Project?

When comparing Onethread with Microsoft Project, several key aspects make it a compelling alternative:

  • User-Friendly Interface: Onethread’s clean and intuitive interface makes it easier for users to adopt and navigate the platform, resulting in quicker onboarding and increased productivity. On the other hand, Microsoft Project can be more complex and overwhelming for new users due to its extensive range of features and functionalities.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Onethread offers competitive pricing plans, including a free option, making it more affordable for businesses, tiny and medium-sized ones.  Microsoft Project is known for its higher price point, which can be a barrier for businesses with limited resources or smaller projects.
  • Collaboration and Communication: Onethread provides seamless in-app messaging and commenting features, promoting practical cooperation among team members, while Microsoft Project may require external communication tools. While Microsoft Project offers collaboration capabilities, it may require external communication tools like email or chat platforms for effective team collaboration, leading to scattered conversations and information.
FeatureOnethreadMicrosoft Project
User-Friendly InterfaceClean and intuitive interfaceComplex interface
PricingCompetitive and affordableExpensive
CollaborationBuilt-in messaging and commentingExternal tools required

Customer Rating: 4.5/5

Pricing Plans

Starter: Free Forever (Up to 10 Users)

Growth: $2/user/month

Scale: $4/user/month

Enterprise: Contact Team Onethread for Details

2. Trello

Trello is a versatile project management app that simplifies task organization and collaboration. Its intuitive interface allows users to create boards, lists, and cards to represent tasks and projects. With drag-and-drop functionality, tracking progress is effortless. 

Trello

Trello promotes collaboration through comments, file attachments, and card due dates. It seamlessly integrates with third-party tools, enhancing productivity. Trello’s flexibility, simplicity, and accessibility make it a popular choice for efficient project management.

Key Features

  • Kanban-style boards for visual task management
  • Customizable lists and cards to fit project requirements
  • Collaboration tools for seamless team communication

Is Trello Better than Microsoft Project?

Trello is a user-friendly and agile alternative to Microsoft Project. It prioritizes simplicity and collaboration over complex project planning and resource management. With visual boards and customizable cards, Trello organizes and tracks tasks effectively, particularly for small to medium-sized projects. 

Unlike Microsoft Project, it has an intuitive interface that requires no extensive training or setup. Trello also integrates seamlessly with various tools, enabling a smooth workflow for users who rely on different software applications.

FeaturesTrelloMicrosoft Project
Visual Task Management
Collaboration Tools
Robust Planning

Customer Rating: 4.5/5

Price

  • Free plan: Basic features with limited integrations and file attachments
  • Business Class: $12.50 per user/month (billed annually) with advanced features, larger file attachments, and enhanced administrative controls
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing for large organizations with additional security and support features

3. Asana

Asana is a dynamic project management solution that empowers teams to achieve peak performance. With its robust feature set, including task management, progress tracking, seamless team communication, and file sharing, Asana revolutionizes collaboration and boosts productivity. In addition, it provides a streamlined platform that ensures projects are executed flawlessly, enabling teams to deliver exceptional results.

Key Features

  • Smooth task management for efficient project execution
  • Real-time progress tracking and reporting for enhanced visibility
  • Seamless team communication and collaboration to foster productivity

Is Asana Better than Microsoft Project?

Asana is an exceptional alternative to Microsoft Project, offering an agile and intuitive project management approach. While Microsoft Project excels in comprehensive planning and resource management, Asana’s strength lies in its user-friendly interface and seamless collaboration. 

Asana’s task-centric approach and real-time progress tracking provide teams with clear visibility, ensuring projects stay on track. Moreover, Asana’s ease of use and extensive integrations enable effortless adoption and compatibility with existing tools, making it an ideal choice for teams of all sizes.

FeaturesAsanaMicrosoft Project
Task Management
Real-time Tracking
Seamless Collaboration

Customer Rating: 4.8/5

Price

  • Basic: Free plan with essential features for small teams and personal use
  • Premium: $13.49 per user/month (billed annually) with advanced features and priority support
  • Business: $30.49 per user/month (billed annually) with additional admin controls and integrations
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing for large organizations with advanced security and customization options

4. ClickUp

Imagine a project management tool that effortlessly transforms how teams collaborate and achieve their goals. ClickUp is that powerful platform. With its rich feature set, including seamless task management, intuitive team communication, customizable workflows, and goal tracking, ClickUp empowers users to streamline their projects, enhance productivity, and drive success like never before.

Key Features

  • Easy and customizable task management for efficient project execution
  • Classic team communication and collaboration tools for real-time coordination
  • Goal tracking and progress monitoring to keep projects on track and achieve milestones

Is ClickUp Better than Microsoft Project?

ClickUp is a superior alternative to Microsoft Project for project management excellence. With its unparalleled user experience, powerful automation capabilities, and seamless integrations, ClickUp surpasses Microsoft Project’s features. Collaborate effortlessly, visualize progress with interactive Gantt charts, and automate repetitive tasks for enhanced productivity. 

ClickUp’s versatility and flexibility make it the ultimate choice for dynamic project management. Unlock your team’s full potential by switching to ClickUp.

FeaturesClickUpMicrosoft Project
Task Management
Team Collaboration
Goal Tracking

Customer Rating: 4.7/5

Price

  • Free plan: Basic features to get started with project management
  • Unlimited plan: $5 per user/month (billed annually) with advanced features and unlimited storage
  • Business plan: Custom pricing for larger teams with enhanced security and priority support

5. Wrike

Imagine a project management app that simplifies your work, keeps your team in sync, and ensures projects run like clockwork. That’s Wrike! With powerful features like task management, real-time team collaboration, customizable dashboards, and visual timelines, Wrike makes it effortless to stay organized and collaborate seamlessly with your team.

Wrike

Key Features

  • Smooth task management for effortless organization
  • Real-time team collaboration to boost productivity
  • Customizable dashboards and visual timelines for clear project insights

Is Wrike Better than Microsoft Project?

Wrike offers an exceptional alternative to Microsoft Project, providing a user-friendly experience and powerful features that make project management a breeze. Unlike the complexity of Microsoft Project, Wrike keeps things simple, allowing you to focus on getting work done rather than getting lost in endless settings and configurations. 

Wrike’s intuitive interface lets you quickly organize tasks, communicate with your team in real-time, and gain valuable insights through customizable dashboards. It’s a modern and user-friendly project management solution that keeps your team connected and projects on track.

FeaturesWrikeMicrosoft Project
User-Friendly
Real-Time Collaboration
Customizable Dashboards

Customer Rating: 4.6/5

Price

  • Free plan: Basic features to get started with project management
  • Professional: $9.80 per user/month (billed annually) with advanced collaboration features and additional storage
  • Business: $24.80 per user/month (billed annually) with robust work management features and customization options
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing for large organizations with advanced security and enterprise-grade support

6. Bitrix24

Bitrix24 is a comprehensive project management app that empowers teams to collaborate efficiently and achieve exceptional results. With features like task management, team communication, document sharing, and customizable workflows, Bitrix24 provides a centralized platform for seamless project execution. As a result, it enhances productivity, streamlines processes, and fosters effective team collaboration.

 Bitrix24

Key Features

  • Task management with customizable workflows
  • Team communication and collaboration tools
  • Document sharing and version control

Is Britix24 Better than Microsoft Project?

Bitrix24 offers a compelling alternative to Microsoft Project by providing a robust project management solution focusing on team collaboration and communication. Bitrix24’s strength lies in its user-friendly interface, comprehensive team collaboration tools, and extensive document-sharing capabilities. 

Bitrix24 ensures teams can seamlessly collaborate, track tasks, and share project files, enhancing overall productivity. With its centralized platform and intuitive features, Bitrix24 offers a more accessible and collaborative project management experience.

FeaturesBitrix24Microsoft Project
Team Collaboration
Document Sharing
Customizable Workflows

Customer Rating: 4.5/5

Price

  • Free plan: Basic features for small teams
  • Plus: $55 per month (for 2 users) with expanded features and storage
  • Standard: $79 per month (for 6 users) with advanced project management and communication tools
  • Professional: $159 per month (for unlimited users) with full functionality and customization options

7. Freedcamp

Freedcamp is another powerful project management app that helps teams streamline their workflows and achieve project success. With features like task management, team collaboration, file sharing, and time tracking, Freedcamp provides a comprehensive platform for efficient project execution. In addition, it promotes effective communication, enhances productivity, and ensures project transparency.

Freedcamp

Key Features

  • Simple Task management with customizable boards
  • Easy Team collaboration and communication tools
  • Smooth File sharing and version control

Is Freedcamp Better than Microsoft Project?

Freedcamp provides a centralized platform for teams to effectively manage tasks, communicate seamlessly, and share project files. It offers a more accessible and collaborative approach to project management, making it an ideal choice for teams seeking a user-friendly alternative.

FeaturesFreedcampMicrosoft Project
Team Collaboration
File Sharing
Customizable Task Boards

Customer Rating: 4.6/5

Price

  • Free plan: Basic features for small teams
  • Minimalist: $1.49 per user/month with advanced project management features
  • Business: $7.49 per user/month with additional storage and project templates
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing for larger organizations with advanced security and customization options

8. TeamGantt

TeamGantt is an intuitive project management app that easily empowers teams to plan, collaborate, and track progress. Its user-friendly interface, interactive Gantt charts, and task management capabilities enable teams to visualize project timelines, allocate resources effectively, and stay on top of deadlines. As a result, TeamGantt simplifies project management, enhancing productivity and team coordination.

TeamGantt

Key Features

  • Interactive Gantt charts for visual project planning
  • Simple yet effective Task management and progress tracking
  • Smooth Resource allocation and team collaboration tools

Is TeamGantt Better than Microsoft Project?

TeamGantt focuses on intuitive and accessible tools that enable teams to plan, track, and collaborate effectively. TeamGantt’s interactive Gantt charts and streamlined task management make it easier to visualize project timelines, allocate resources, and keep everyone on the same page. It’s an ideal choice for teams seeking a user-friendly project management solution.

FeaturesTeamGanttMicrosoft Project
Visual Project Planning
User-Friendly Interface
Streamlined Collaboration

Customer Rating: 4.7/5

Price

  • Free plan: Basic features for small teams
  • Standard: $24.95 per user/month with advanced project management and collaboration features
  • Advanced: $29.95 per user/month with additional features like dependencies and custom branding

9. KanbanFlow

KanbanFlow is a versatile project management app that enables users to visualize and streamline their workflows effectively. It offers features such as task tracking, time tracking, collaboration tools, and a visual Kanban board, providing users with a clear overview of their projects and facilitating efficient task management. As a result, users benefit from improved organization, enhanced team collaboration, and increased productivity.

 KanbanFlow

Key features

  • Classic Visual Kanban board
  • Task tracking and time tracking capabilities
  • Collaboration tools for seamless teamwork

Is KanbanFlow Better than Microsoft Project?

KanbanFlow is a good alternative to Microsoft Project, offering a flexible and visual approach to project management. Unlike the complex and feature-heavy interface of Microsoft Project, KanbanFlow provides a simpler and user-friendly interface focusing on visualizing tasks and workflows. In addition, it emphasizes agility and enables users to track tasks and progress in real-time using the Kanban board.

FeaturesKanbanFlowMicrosoft Project
Visual Task Management
User-Friendly InterfaceX
Real-Time Collaboration

Customer rating: 4.5/5

Pricing

  • Free Plan: Basic features, limited to 2 boards and 5 team members.
  • Premium Plan: $5 per user/month, unlimited boards and team members, additional features like file attachments, and priority support.

10. MeisterTask

MeisterTask is a collaborative project management app that simplifies tasks and enhances team productivity. With its intuitive interface, customizable project boards, and seamless integration with popular productivity tools, MeisterTask empowers teams to streamline their workflows, track progress, and collaborate effectively. It brings clarity, transparency, and efficiency to project management.

MeisterTask

Key Features

  • Customizable project boards for visual task management
  • Task automation to streamline workflows
  • Integration with popular productivity tools for seamless collaboration

Is MeisterTask Better than Microsoft Project?

MeisterTask excels in simplicity and user-friendly features. MeisterTask’s customizable project boards, task automation, and seamless integrations enable teams to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and adapt to their unique project needs. It’s an excellent choice for teams seeking a more agile and collaborative project management solution.

FeaturesMeisterTaskMicrosoft Project
Visual Task Management
Task Automation
Integration with Productivity Tools

Customer Rating: 4.6/5

Price

  • Basic: Free plan with essential features for small teams
  • Pro: $8.25 per user/month with advanced features and integrations
  • Business: Custom pricing for larger teams with additional security and collaboration options

11. OpenProject

OpenProject is your ultimate project management tool to boost collaboration and streamline workflow. With powerful features like task management, Gantt charts, document sharing, and time tracking, OpenProject empowers teams to stay organized, communicate effectively, and achieve project success. So say goodbye to scattered information and embrace a centralized platform that keeps everyone on the same page.

OpenProject

Key Features

  • Intuitive task management for seamless project organization
  • Dynamic Gantt charts for visualizing project timelines
  • Document sharing and collaboration for efficient team communication

Is OpenProject Better than Microsoft Project?

OpenProject offers a refreshing alternative to Microsoft Project by prioritizing open collaboration and user-friendly features. While Microsoft Project focuses on intricate planning and resource management, OpenProject stands out with its emphasis on team collaboration and transparency. 

With OpenProject, teams can easily manage tasks, visualize project timelines with dynamic Gantt charts, and collaborate effortlessly on documents. It’s perfect for teams seeking a more agile and collaborative project management solution.

FeaturesOpenProjectMicrosoft Project
Task Management
Dynamic Gantt Charts
Document Sharing

Customer Rating: 4.5/5

Price

  • Community Edition: Free plan for small teams and open-source enthusiasts
  • Cloud Edition: Starting at $5 per user/month, with advanced features and cloud hosting
  • Enterprise Edition: Custom pricing for larger organizations with additional security and support options

12. Monday.com

That’s Monday.com! With its sleek interface and robust features, Monday.com empowers teams to plan, track, and execute projects. From customizable workflows to visual project boards and real-time collaboration, Monday.com transforms how teams work, enabling them to achieve remarkable results.

Key Features

  • Simple project management process to match your team’s unique needs, ensuring a smooth and efficient workflow.
  • Visually appealing boards to get a clear overview of tasks and deadlines that keep everyone in sync and motivated.
  • One centralized platform to foster effective teamwork with seamless communication, file sharing, and progress updates.

Is Monday.com Better than Microsoft Project?

Monday.com embraces an intuitive and user-friendly approach. With Monday.com, teams can quickly adapt their workflows, visualize project progress at a glance, and collaborate in real-time. It’s a game-changer for teams seeking a more dynamic and engaging project management experience.

FeaturesMonday.comMicrosoft Project
Customizable Workflows
Visual Project Boards
Real-time Collaboration

Customer Rating: 4.7/5

Price

  • Basic Plan: Starting at $8 per user/month, with essential features for small teams.
  • Standard Plan: Starting at $10 per user/month, offering additional features and advanced customization.
  • Pro Plan: Starting at $16 per user/month, providing enhanced functionality and priority support.

13. Smartsheet

Imagine a powerful project management tool that combines the flexibility of spreadsheets with collaborative features to supercharge your team’s productivity. That’s Smartsheet! With its intuitive interface, dynamic project tracking, and seamless collaboration, Smartsheet empowers users to plan, execute, and deliver projects with precision. Enjoy real-time visibility, automated workflows, and customizable templates that ensure successful project outcomes.

Smartsheet

Key Features

  • Real-time updates and interactive Gantt charts to stay on top of project progress, milestones, and deadlines.
  • Team collaboration with shared workspaces, discussions, file sharing, and commenting in one centralized platform.
  • Streamline processes and eliminate manual tasks with automated workflows, reminders, and notifications for seamless project execution.

Is Smartsheet Better than Microsoft Project?

Smartsheet offers a compelling alternative to Microsoft Project by combining the familiarity of spreadsheets with enhanced collaboration and automation capabilities. Unlike the complex learning curve of Microsoft Project, Smartsheet provides a user-friendly experience that empowers teams to adopt and leverage its features quickly. With Smartsheet, you can enjoy the flexibility of a spreadsheet-based interface while enjoying advanced project management functionality and seamless collaboration.

FeaturesSmartsheetMicrosoft Project
Dynamic Project Tracking
Collaborative Workspaces
Automated Workflows

Customer Rating: 4.5/5

Price

  • Individual Plan: Starting at $14 per user/month, offering essential project management features for individuals.
  • Business Plan: Starting at $25 per user/month, providing teams with advanced project management capabilities and collaboration tools.
  • Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing is available for large organizations with additional security, scalability, and support features.

14. Basecamp

Basecamp is a highly regarded project management app offering various features to streamline project workflows and enhance collaboration. With Basecamp, users can centralize their projects, create to-do lists, assign tasks, share files, and engage in real-time discussions. In addition, the app benefits users by promoting transparency, reducing email clutter, and fostering effective teamwork, ultimately accelerating project success.

 Basecamp

Key Features

  • Centralized project management workspace
  • Task lists and assignments
  • Real-time collaboration and communication tools

Is Basecamp Better than Microsoft Project?

Basecamp provides a compelling alternative to Microsoft Project, particularly for small to mid-sized projects prioritizing collaboration and simplicity. Unlike Microsoft Project, which is more suited for complex projects with intricate planning and resource management needs, Basecamp emphasizes a user-friendly interface, real-time collaboration, and streamlined project management. It offers a more intuitive and team-centric approach, enhancing communication and reducing complexity for better project outcomes.

AspectBasecampMicrosoft Project
User-FriendlinessEasy to use interfaceComplex interface
CollaborationEmphasizes real-time teamworkFocused on planning
Project ComplexitySuitable for small to mid-sized projectsIdeal for complex projects

Customer Rating: 4.5/5.

Price Plans

  • Basecamp Personal: Free for personal projects with limited features
  • Basecamp Business: $99/month flat fee for unlimited projects and users

15. Zoho Projects

Zoho Projects is a powerful project management application that offers many features to help teams streamline their work and achieve success. With its user-friendly interface and robust functionality, Zoho Projects provides an intuitive platform for managing projects effectively.

Zoho Projects

This app caters to the needs of various industries, from small businesses to large enterprises. It enables teams to collaborate seamlessly, assign tasks, track progress, manage timelines, and communicate effectively. With Zoho Projects, users can stay organized, improve productivity, and ensure project success.

Key Features:

  • Users can create and assign tasks, set deadlines, and track progress.
  • Offers interactive Gantt charts, enabling users to visualize project timelines, dependencies, and milestones. 
  • Zoho Projects provides a secure repository for storing and sharing project-related documents.

Is Zoho Projects Better than Microsoft Project?

Zoho Projects is a solid alternative to Microsoft Project, offering several key differences. While Microsoft Project is a desktop-based application, Zoho Projects is cloud-based, allowing users to access their projects from anywhere, collaborate in real time, and eliminate the need for software installation or updates.

Furthermore, Zoho Projects provides a more affordable pricing structure than Microsoft Project, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious teams. The table below highlights three main comparisons between Zoho Projects and Microsoft Projects.

FeatureZoho ProjectsMicrosoft Project
DeploymentCloud-basedDesktop-based
AccessibilityAnywhere, anytime accessLimited to installed devices
PricingCost-effective subscription plansHigher upfront costs, licensing fees

Customer Rating: 4.5/5

Price Plans

  • Free Plan: Suitable for small teams with basic project management needs. Price: $0
  • Standard Plan: Offers enhanced features and supports more users. Price: Starting at $25/month.
  • Professional Plan: Provides advanced capabilities for larger teams and complex projects. Price: Starting at $50/month.
  • Enterprise Plan: Tailored for enterprise-level requirements, with additional security and customization options. Price: Starting at $100/month.

16. Teamwork

Experience the game-changing power of Teamwork – the ultimate project management solution. Unleash your team’s potential with seamless collaboration, streamlined workflows, and unparalleled efficiency. Say goodbye to chaos and hello to organized success. 

 Teamwork

With a comprehensive toolkit, intuitive interface, and crystal-clear communication channels, Teamwork empowers you to conquer projects effortlessly. Boost productivity, meet deadlines, and achieve greatness together. Don’t settle for mediocrity – embrace the centralized platform revolutionizing project management. Join the ranks of satisfied users and start your journey to excellence today. Success awaits with Teamwork – are you ready?

Key Features

  • Task Management to efficiently create, assign, and track tasks with advanced capabilities.
  • Collaboration Tools to Foster seamless communication and teamwork through real-time updates and file sharing.
  • Reporting and Analytics to gain valuable insights into project performance with robust reporting features.

Is Teamwork Better than Microsoft Project?

Teamwork is an excellent alternative to Microsoft Project, offering several key differences. Unlike Microsoft Project’s desktop-based approach, Teamwork is a cloud-based platform that provides anytime, anywhere access, real-time collaboration, and automatic updates without the need for software installation. Additionally, Teamwork emphasizes user-friendly interfaces and intuitive workflows, making it easier for teams to adopt and use effectively.

FeatureTeamworkMicrosoft Project
DeploymentCloud-basedDesktop-based
CollaborationReal-time updates and file sharingLimited collaboration features
AccessibilityAnywhere, anytime accessLimited to installed devices

Customer Rating: 4.6/5

Price Plans

  • Free Plan: Suitable for small teams with basic project management needs. Price: $0.
  • Pro Plan: Offers enhanced features and increased project limits. Price: Starting at $10/month per user.
  • Premium Plan: Provides advanced project management capabilities and additional storage. Price: Starting at $18/month per user.
  • Enterprise Plan: Tailored for larger organizations with advanced security and customization options. Price: Custom quote-based pricing.

17. Jira

Unleash your team’s potential with Jira – the agile project management tool of choice. Seamlessly plan, track, and release software projects with a comprehensive suite of features. Customizable workflows, issue tracking, and real-time reporting ensure adaptability to changing requirements and the delivery of high-quality results.

Jira

With a centralized platform, Jira provides unparalleled communication, productivity, and project management. Collaborate with ease, streamline workflows, and achieve success with Jira. Recognized globally for its capabilities and flexibility, Jira is the ultimate solution for modern project management. Join the ranks of satisfied users and experience the power of Jira today.

Key Features

  • Agile Project Management for extensive support for agile methodologies, including scrum and kanban boards, sprints, and backlog management.
  • Issue Tracking to Track and prioritize issues, assign tasks, and monitor progress with Jira’s comprehensive issue-tracking system.
  • Customizable Workflow to fit your team’s unique processes by creating custom workflows and automating repetitive tasks.

Is Jira Better than Microsoft Project?

Jira’s strength lies in its agility and flexibility. Jira is designed for software development projects and offers features tailored to agile methodologies, such as scrum and Kanban boards, backlog management, and integration with popular development tools. Its ability to handle complex workflows and adapt to changing requirements makes it a go-to choice for agile teams.

FeatureJiraMicrosoft Project
Project ManagementAgile-focused with scrum and kanban boardsComprehensive suite for traditional PM
Development EmphasisTailored for software development projectsGeneral-purpose project management
IntegrationSeamless integration with development toolsIntegration with Microsoft Office suite

Customer Rating: 4.5/5

Price Plans

  • Free Plan: Suitable for small teams with basic project management needs. Price: $0.
  • Standard Plan: Provides essential features for teams starting at an affordable price. Price: Starting at $7/month for up to 10 users.
  • Premium Plan: Offers advanced functionality and scalability for larger teams and organizations. Price: Starting at $14/month for up to 10 users.
  • Enterprise Plan: Tailored for enterprise-level requirements, with advanced security and support options. Price: Custom quote-based pricing.

18. LiquidPlanner

LiquidPlanner is an intelligent project management application that helps teams streamline their work and optimize project efficiency. With its advanced features and dynamic scheduling capabilities, LiquidPlanner empowers users to plan, manage effectively, and precisely track projects. 

LiquidPlanner

The app utilizes intelligent algorithms to automatically adjust project schedules based on priorities, resources, and dependencies, ensuring accurate timelines and resource allocation. LiquidPlanner’s collaborative features, real-time updates, and insightful analytics enable teams to stay organized, make data-driven decisions, and achieve successful project outcomes.

Key Features

  • Dynamic Scheduling automatically recalculates schedules based on changing priorities, helping teams adapt to evolving requirements.
  • Collaborative Workspace to ensure seamless teamwork with shared project spaces, real-time updates, and interactive communication features.
  • Analytics and Reporting to gain valuable insights into project performance, resource allocation, and progress.

Is LiquidPlanner Better than Microsoft Project?

LiquidPlanner employs dynamic scheduling algorithms that adapt to changing priorities and resource availability. This enables teams to manage uncertainty, optimize resource allocation, and maintain realistic project plans. LiquidPlanner’s collaborative workspace and emphasis on real-time updates foster effective communication and teamwork, enhancing overall project efficiency.

FeatureLiquidPlannerMicrosoft Project
Dynamic SchedulingAutomatically adjusts schedules based on priorities and resourcesStatic scheduling with manual adjustments
CollaborationReal-time updates and interactive communicationLimited collaboration features
Resource AllocationOptimizes resource allocation based on availabilityManual resource allocation and tracking

Customer Rating: 4.4/5

Price Plans

  • Professional Plan: Offers essential project management features. Price: Starting at $45/month per user.
  • Enterprise Plan: Provides advanced functionality, security, and support. Price: Custom quote-based pricing.

19. Workfront

This might be the last one on the list. But this is a giant from Adobe. And I am sure you know about the brand “Adobe”. With its robust features and user-friendly interface, Workfront enables users to effectively plan, track, and execute projects from start to finish. 

Workfront

The app offers centralized project management, task assignment, document sharing, and real-time communication, empowering teams to streamline their processes and achieve greater productivity. Workfront’s intuitive interface, customizable dashboards, and seamless integrations make it valuable for managing projects, enhancing collaboration, and driving successful outcomes.

Key Features

  • Centralized Project Management for bringing all project-related information, tasks, and files together in a single platform.
  • Task Assignment and Tracking to Assign tasks, set deadlines, and track progress in real-time.
  • Customizable Dashboards to Tailor your workspace by creating personalized dashboards and reports.

Is Workfront Better than Microsoft Project?

Workfront offers a modern, cloud-based platform emphasizing team collaboration, transparency, and agility. Workfront’s centralized project management and real-time updates foster effective communication and coordination, enabling teams to adapt to changes quickly and make informed decisions. With its user-friendly interface and focus on team productivity, Workfront is well-suited for organizations seeking a dynamic project management solution.

FeatureWorkfrontMicrosoft Project
CollaborationReal-time communication and document sharingLimited collaboration features
AgilityAgile project management capabilitiesTraditional project management approach
User InterfaceIntuitive and user-friendly interfaceFeature-rich but complex interface

Customer Rating: 4.3/5

Price Plans

  • Work Management: Offers essential work management features. Price: Custom quote-based pricing.
  • Enterprise Work Management: Provides advanced functionality and customization options. Price: Custom quote-based pricing.

Please note that the pricing details mentioned here are subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information, it is recommended to visit the official websites of Microsoft Project Alternatives.

How can you pick the right one for your project management success?

When choosing a Microsoft Project alternative, consider these key factors:

  • Identify Your Needs: Determine the essential features and functionalities required for your project management.
  • Trial and Evaluation: Take advantage of free trials or demos to assess how well the tool aligns with your needs and gather feedback from your team.
  • Scalability and Flexibility: Ensure the tool can accommodate future growth and adapt to different project types and methodologies.
  • User-Friendliness: Choose a tool with an intuitive interface that promotes quick adoption and productivity.
  • Support and Training: Evaluate the availability of comprehensive documentation, tutorials, and customer support availability.
  • User Reviews and Recommendations: Gain insights from others who have used the tool regarding reliability, customer support, and user experience.

By considering these factors, you can select the right alternative that aligns with your project management goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a free version of MS Project?

No, Microsoft Project does not offer a free version. It is a paid software with different licensing options.

Can project data be migrated from Microsoft Project to alternatives?

Data migration capabilities vary depending on the alternative tool. Some alternatives offer import options to bring project data from Microsoft Project, while others may require manual migration or data entry.

How do Microsoft Project alternatives differ from each other?

Microsoft Project alternatives differ in terms of features, user interfaces, pricing models, collaboration capabilities, scalability, industry focus, and integrations. Some tools may prioritize simplicity and ease of use, while others offer advanced functionalities tailored to specific project management needs.

Is there a Google alternative to MS Project?

Yes, there are Google alternatives to MS Project. Google offers a project management tool called Google Sheets, which can be used to create basic project plans and track tasks. Additionally, there are third-party project management tools that integrate with Google Workspace, such as Asana, Trello, and ClickUp.

How to get a free MS Project?

To get a free MS Project, you can sign up for a trial version of Microsoft Project through the official Microsoft website. The trial period usually lasts for a limited time, allowing you to explore the features and functionalities of the software.

Is MS Project free with Office 365?

No, MS Project is not included for free with Office 365 subscriptions. Microsoft Project is a separate application that requires a separate license or subscription.