> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://stack-rundown.ghost.io/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Open-Source Time Trackers: Best Free Tools 2026 - URL: https://stack-rundown.ghost.io/best-free-open-source-time-trackers/ - Published: 2026-04-03T06:50:07.000Z - Updated: 2026-09-08T18:44:49.000Z - Description: Clockify and Toggl are free cloud tools, not open source. This rundown compares them with real OSS options (Kimai, Redmine, Taiga, ActivityWatch, Super Productivity) on license, hosting, reporting, and privacy. - Author: SR Staff - Tags: SaaS Reviews **Looking for free and open-source time trackers?** This is a guide to the **10 best time tracking tools of 2026**, organised by what matters most once you commit: the license and where your data lives. Three buckets run through this list: **true open source you self-host** (Kimai, OpenProject, Redmine, Taiga, TimeTracker), **open source that runs locally on your own machine** (ActivityWatch, Super Productivity), and **proprietary tools with a generous free cloud tier** (Clockify and Toggl Track, which are *free, not OSS*). TimeTrex sits in between: its Community Edition is source-available rather than a fully community-governed open-source project. Which bucket a tool falls into tells you who controls the data, whether you can modify the code, and what happens as your team grows. - [**Clockify**](https://clockify.me/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io): *Free, not OSS* — proprietary cloud SaaS. Unlimited users on the free plan, solid basic tracking and reporting, 80+ integrations. Paid plans from $3.99/month. - [**Toggl Track**](https://toggl.com/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io): *Free, not OSS* — proprietary, cloud-only SaaS. Free plan covers up to 5 users; advanced reporting is paid. - [**Kimai**](https://www.kimai.org/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io): *Open source (AGPL), self-hosted.* Unlimited users and strong reporting; requires technical setup but you keep full control of your data. - [**TimeTrex**](https://portal.timetrex.com/community-edition?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io): *Source-available Community Edition* (vendor-released community build, not fully community-governed OSS). Time tracking, scheduling, and payroll with no user limits. - [**OpenProject**](https://www.openproject.org/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io): *Open source (GPL), self-hosted* Community Edition. Project management with integrated time tracking, unlimited users, strong task-based reporting. - [**Redmine**](https://www.redmine.org/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io): *Open source (GPL), self-hosted.* Mature project management with robust time tracking. Best for teams with technical expertise. - [**Taiga**](https://taiga.io/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io): *Open source (AGPL), self-hosted.* Agile-focused, with sprint planning and time tracking. Setup requires technical know-how. - [**ActivityWatch**](https://activitywatch.net/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io): *Open source, local-only.* Privacy-first automatic tracker; data stays on your own device. Great for individuals, no team features. - [**Super Productivity**](https://super-productivity.com/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io): *Open source, local-only.* Task management plus time tracking for individual knowledge workers; integrates with Jira and GitHub. - [**TimeTracker**](https://timetracker.drytrix.com/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io): *Open source, self-hosted.* All-in-one time tracking, project management, and invoicing. Unlimited users, needs technical skills. ### Quick Comparison | **Tool** | **License / Hosting** | **User Limits (Free)** | **Best For** | **Key Features** | **Main Drawback** | | ---------------------- | -------------------------------------------- | ---------------------- | ------------------------------ | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------- | | **Clockify** | Proprietary, free cloud tier (free, not OSS) | Unlimited | Freelancers, teams | Basic tracking, 80+ integrations | Limited advanced features on free plan | | **Toggl Track** | Proprietary, free cloud tier (free, not OSS) | 5 users | Small teams, freelancers | Simple UI, [browser extensions](https://zovo.one/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io) | No task management on free plan | | **Kimai** | OSS (AGPL), self-host | Unlimited | Self-hosted teams | Strong reporting, full data control | Requires technical setup | | **TimeTrex** | Source-available Community Edition | Unlimited | Teams needing payroll features | Time tracking + payroll integration | Complex setup for advanced features | | **OpenProject** | OSS (GPL), self-host | Unlimited | Project management teams | Gantt charts, task tracking | Time tracking feels secondary | | **Redmine** | OSS (GPL), self-host | Unlimited | Developers, IT teams | Git/SVN integration, self-hosted | Requires technical expertise | | **Taiga** | OSS (AGPL), self-host | Unlimited | Agile teams | Sprint planning, agile reports | Complicated setup | | **ActivityWatch** | OSS, local-only | Unlimited | Privacy-conscious individuals | Local data storage | No cross-device sync | | **Super Productivity** | OSS, local-only | Unlimited | Personal use | Task management + time tracking | No team collaboration tools | | **TimeTracker** | OSS, self-host | Unlimited | Teams needing invoicing | All-in-one suite | Requires IT resources | These tools offer flexibility and control, whether you're managing a team or tracking your own work. Start with the one that fits your needs and test it out for a week. ![Comparison of 10 Best Free Open-Source Time Trackers 2026](https://assets.seobotai.com/undefined/69cf35591b352ff267cd326e-1775190222210.jpg) Comparison of 10 Best Free Open-Source Time Trackers 2026 ## Video: Super Productivity in Action (Open-Source, Local-First) ![Super Productivity](https://assets.seobotai.com/stackrundown.com/69cf35591b352ff267cd326e/7cc1e50aba2ed732bf8578253605dc53.jpg) ###### sbb-itb-fd683fe ## 1\. Clockify (free cloud tier, not open source) ![Clockify](https://assets.seobotai.com/stackrundown.com/69cf35591b352ff267cd326e/00677a8d8038398d425e186b0facce27.jpg) Clockify stands out with its unlimited free plan, offering no restrictions on users, projects, or clients. With over **7 million users worldwide** and an impressive **99.99% uptime record**, it has built a reputation for reliability on a global scale. The platform makes time tracking simple. You can start a timer with one click, manually log hours, or use timesheet grids. Its desktop apps for Windows, Mac, and Linux include an idle detection feature that automatically pauses tracking when you're away from your computer. Plus, browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge let you launch timers directly within tools like [Trello](https://trello.com/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io) or [Asana](https://asana.com/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io). These features make it easy to track time effectively, laying the foundation for its reporting and integration tools. ### Reporting Capabilities Even on its free tier, Clockify offers a range of reporting options, including **Summary**, **Detailed**, and **Weekly** reports. These reports can be filtered by user, project, or task, allowing teams to monitor billable versus non-billable hours, track project progress against estimates, and export data in formats like PDF, CSV, or Excel. ### Integrations Clockify supports over **80 integrations**, including popular tools like Asana, Jira, [Slack](https://slack.com/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io), and Google Calendar. For those on paid plans, it also integrates with [QuickBooks](https://quickbooks.intuit.com/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io). Automation is another strong point, with services like [Zapier](https://zapier.com/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io), Make, and Pipedream enabling remote teams to sync time entries across platforms. Additionally, API access is included in the free plan, allowing businesses to develop custom internal integrations. ### Limitations While Clockify excels in time tracking, it does have some drawbacks. Advanced project management features, such as [Gantt chart software options](https://stack-rundown.ghost.io/gantt-chart-software-feature-comparison/) and task dependencies are absent. Some users have noted that the interface feels basic or outdated compared to other platforms, and the mobile app can be clunky. Moreover, features like invoicing, timesheet approvals, and GPS tracking are only available on paid plans, which start at **$3.99 per user per month**. ## 2\. Toggl Track (free cloud tier, not open source) ![Toggl Track](https://assets.seobotai.com/stackrundown.com/69cf35591b352ff267cd326e/7b43c35ee11fce2aa62ac23ba0280ca8.jpg) Toggl Track offers a free plan that supports up to 5 users, making it a great choice for small teams and freelancers. The platform focuses on simplicity - you can start tracking time with just one click using its web, desktop, or mobile apps. Plus, browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox add timer buttons directly into tools like Google Docs and Help Scout, so you can dive right in without extra hassle. The free plan also includes helpful features like automatic inactivity detection and a Pomodoro timer to help you maintain a healthy balance between work and breaks. These straightforward tools make it easy to get started with time tracking. ### Reporting Capabilities Even on the free tier, Toggl Track offers basic reporting features. You can access weekly stats and team summaries, view time entries in either grid or calendar layouts, and filter reports by team, tag, or client. Visual dashboards display tracked time in graphs for better insights. However, advanced options like billable rates, time rounding, and saved reports are only available on paid plans, which start at $9 per user per month when billed annually. ### Integrations Toggl Track integrates seamlessly with over 100 tools, including Asana, [Notion](https://www.notion.com/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io), Airtable, and Zapier, ensuring it fits into your existing workflow. For custom needs, the platform also provides a comprehensive JSON API. However, invoicing functionality requires third-party integrations. ### Limitations The free plan's 5-user limit can be restrictive for teams that are expanding. Additionally, Toggl Track is a cloud-only solution, with data stored on US servers. This could present privacy challenges for organizations bound by EU data protection laws, as data may be subject to access requests under regulations like the CLOUD Act. The free version also lacks features like task management, project planning, and built-in reminders to start or stop timers. While its cloud-only setup and 5-user cap are real limits, Toggl Track’s free plan still covers straightforward time tracking. Note that both it and Clockify are proprietary — *free, not OSS*. Next we move into the genuinely open-source, self-hostable options. ## 3\. [Kimai](https://www.kimai.org/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io) ![Kimai](https://assets.seobotai.com/stackrundown.com/69cf35591b352ff267cd326e/6fc66dfc017df8b81918ae39205d6e05.jpg) Kimai is a well-established, open-source time tracker that has been actively developed since 2006, earning trust from users for over 16 years. A standout feature is its ability to support unlimited users, clients, projects, and time entries in a single installation. This applies whether you self-host or opt for its cloud-based solution, making it a flexible option for teams of any size. With over 5,000 satisfied customers and a perfect rating, Kimai is often praised for its ease of use and effective functionality. Jeremy White of CodeWeavers shared: > None of the proprietary solutions had the functionality and simplicity of Kimai. Available in more than 30 languages, Kimai is a great fit for international teams. ### Reporting Capabilities Kimai excels in reporting, offering tools to analyze time data by user, customer, project, activity, tags, or time period. Its dashboard provides clear visual statistics and charts, helping teams understand how time is allocated. Data can also be exported in formats like XLSX, PDF, CSV, and HTML, making it easy to share with clients or integrate into accounting systems. The platform includes a Customer Portal feature, allowing teams to share project updates and timesheets with clients through a secure, optionally password-protected URL. For teams needing precise time tracking, Kimai offers two modes: "Time-clock" mode for punch in/out logging and "Duration only" mode to meet specific labor law requirements. ### Integrations Kimai integrates seamlessly with other tools through its JSON API. It supports LDAP and SAML authentication methods (compatible with Google Workspace, Azure AD, Authentik, Microsoft ADFS, and Keycloak), and it includes TOTP-based two-factor authentication for added security. The platform's plugin architecture allows for further customization, while the "Teams" feature helps organize users into departments, ensuring that team leads only access relevant data for their groups. While some advanced features require additional setup, these integrations significantly enhance the platform's capabilities. ### Limitations Self-hosting Kimai requires technical knowledge, particularly with Docker or SSH for installation and updates. Advanced features like expense tracking, custom fields, and task management are only available in the Professional cloud tier, starting at €3.99 per user/month, or through additional plugins for self-hosted installations. The cloud version charges based on active users, so inactive users do not add to costs. Despite these challenges, Kimai’s unlimited user capacity and robust reporting tools make it a strong choice for teams that want complete control over their time tracking without worrying about per-user fees. ## 4\. TimeTrex (source-available Community Edition) ![TimeTrex](https://assets.seobotai.com/stackrundown.com/69cf35591b352ff267cd326e/99677f396cf81aecf8745eeb1654829b.jpg) TimeTrex combines **time tracking, scheduling, and payroll** into a single package with its free Community Edition. This version supports unlimited users at no cost. Hosted in the cloud, it offers essential features like web-based time and attendance, scheduling, and basic payroll processing - all without any upfront expense. What makes TimeTrex stand out is its **integrated payroll system**, which removes the need for third-party integrations. This reduces the risk of data synchronization errors, simplifying workflows compared to platforms that rely on external tools to connect time tracking and payroll. On top of that, TimeTrex integrates with widely-used platforms like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Slack, and accounting software such as Xero and QuickBooks Online. These integrations enhance its functionality while supporting detailed reporting tools that provide actionable insights. ### Reporting Capabilities TimeTrex delivers **real-time labor controls**, allowing businesses to compare scheduled versus actual hours, making it easier to spot productivity gaps. It also ensures data accuracy with detailed audit trails. For companies subject to Fair Workweek regulations, the platform automatically calculates "predictability pay" penalties and flags compliance issues like "clopening" shifts. This feature is particularly valuable, as U.S. businesses paid over $27 million in penalties and back wages in 2022 due to such violations. For businesses requiring more detailed project tracking, TimeTrex’s higher-tier plans (Corporate and Enterprise) offer **advanced job costing**. This feature enables tracking of labor costs for specific projects, tasks, or clients. User reviews give TimeTrex an impressive 4.8 out of 5.0 rating, highlighting its ability to manage complex timesheets effectively and deliver a return on investment in less than six months. ### Limitations The Community Edition is limited to standard web browsers like Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari, as it does not have a native mobile app. While the free version covers essential features, advanced tools like GPS geofencing, biometric facial recognition, and offline synchronization are only available in paid plans, starting at $5.00 per user per month (with a $50.00 monthly minimum). Additionally, the free on-site version was discontinued in October 2024, leaving the cloud-hosted Community Edition as the sole free option. ## 5\. [OpenProject](https://www.openproject.org/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io) ![OpenProject](https://assets.seobotai.com/stackrundown.com/69cf35591b352ff267cd326e/d632b5fb27e74ce78cd4751fe18338f9.jpg) OpenProject is a **project management tool** that also functions as a time tracker. It allows teams to log billable hours, track project progress, and monitor both labor and unit costs. The platform's Community Edition is free and open-source, supporting unlimited users at no cost. Beyond basic time tracking, OpenProject integrates tools like Gantt charts, task management, and agile development features - making it ideal for teams that want a seamless blend of time tracking and project management. ### Unlimited Users The free Community Edition stands out by offering **unlimited users** without any fees, making it a budget-friendly option for growing teams. This version includes essential time tracking features, budget widgets on the Project Overview page, and tools to track work packages across multiple projects. A notable addition in March 2026 was the MCP Server feature in OpenProject 17.2, developed with sponsorship and input from **Mercedes-AMG**, enabling secure AI workflow integration. ### Reporting Capabilities OpenProject provides robust tools for tracking progress through **work-based and status-based metrics**. Progress is measured using work data and "% Complete" status values. The budget dashboards offer real-time insights into planned budgets, actual costs, spent amounts, and remaining funds. Teams can calculate labor costs based on individual hourly rates and filter data by team member, time period, or specific work packages. Reports can be exported in Excel and PDF formats, making them useful for billing or in-depth analysis. ### Integrations OpenProject connects with **Nextcloud, OneDrive, and SharePoint** for streamlined document sharing and management within work packages. Developers benefit from integrations with **GitHub and** [**GitLab**](https://about.gitlab.com/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io), allowing pull requests, commits, and branches to be linked directly to tasks for better visibility. Additional tools include a **Slack integration** \- built by the community - that sends updates about work packages or Wiki changes, and a Thunderbird add-on that converts emails into tasks. For external time tracking, plugins for Toggl and Timesheet are available. These integrations expand OpenProject's functionality, enhancing its role in broader workflows. ### Limitations Some advanced features, like the MCP Server for AI workflows, reusable meeting templates, and enhanced security options, are only available in Enterprise plans. Similarly, OneDrive and SharePoint integrations require the Enterprise version. Time logging through Git or SVN commit messages is limited to on-premises installations. While OpenProject adheres to WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards, certain administrative add-ons and custom themes are exclusive to paid tiers. ## 6\. [Redmine](https://www.redmine.org/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io) ![Redmine](https://assets.seobotai.com/stackrundown.com/69cf35591b352ff267cd326e/50e02434992fd8c1d4b153d355f743a6.jpg) Redmine is a **free, open-source project management tool** with built-in time tracking capabilities. Licensed under the GNU General Public License v2, it supports unlimited users and projects without any fees, making it a strong contender among 2026's top free time tracking tools. However, Redmine requires **self-hosting and significant technical expertise** for setup and maintenance, making it more suitable for teams with dedicated IT resources. ### Unlimited Users As a self-hosted platform, Redmine provides flexible role-based access control, allowing administrators to assign different permission levels to team members. It also supports self-registration (if enabled) and integrates with multiple LDAP authentication sources. This flexibility makes it scalable for organizations of any size, though the responsibility for maintaining the infrastructure lies entirely with the team. ### Reporting Capabilities Redmine delivers detailed reports that can be grouped by activities, milestones, projects, tasks, or team members. It includes Gantt charts for visualizing project timelines and personal statements that organize time entries by days, weeks, months, or years. The platform distinguishes between billable and non-billable hours and tracks "estimated vs. spent" time to help teams manage budgets effectively. Additionally, timesheet data can be exported in **PDF, CSV, or Excel (XLSX)** formats, making it convenient for invoicing or in-depth analysis. Advanced plugins enhance functionality by adding "Spent Time" widgets, which display data as lists or charts on user dashboards. These reporting tools integrate seamlessly with Redmine's collaboration features. ### Integrations Redmine connects with **Git, SVN, CVS, Mercurial, and Bazaar**. Developers can log time directly through commit messages using formats like `refs #435 @1h30`, which automatically links hours to specific issues. The [**WakaTime**](https://wakatime.com/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io) **plugin** adds automatic time tracking based on coding activity, offering insights by file, branch, and programming language across more than 600 supported languages. TJ Holowaychuk shared: > I love the insight WakaTime gives me on my projects. With WakaTime I know exactly where my time went down to the file. Additionally, the platform supports creating issues via email and provides feeds and notifications for project updates. These integrations enhance Redmine's ability to track and manage work hours effectively. ### Limitations - **No built-in, real-time timer**; time entries must be added manually. - **Requires advanced technical expertise** in Ruby on Rails, Linux, MySQL, and Apache for setup and maintenance. - **No mobile app available**. - **Interface is text-heavy and geared toward developers**. - **Lacks pre-built integrations** for tools like Slack or Google Drive; connections require custom setups or API configurations via Zapier. - **Support is limited to community forums and documentation**, with no professional assistance offered. ## 7\. [Taiga](https://taiga.io/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io) ![Taiga](https://assets.seobotai.com/stackrundown.com/69cf35591b352ff267cd326e/446d798ef6b7529b8446450dda1bf7f8.jpg) Taiga is a **free, open-source project management tool** tailored for agile teams that need features like sprint planning, backlog management, and built-in time tracking. While it excels as a project management solution, it’s more than just a simple time-tracking tool. Its self-hosted design makes it ideal for teams with IT support and technical expertise. ### Unlimited Users One of Taiga’s standout features is its ability to support **unlimited users** without charging per user. This makes it a budget-friendly choice for growing teams. However, as a self-hosted platform, organizations are responsible for managing their own infrastructure and maintenance. To run Taiga, teams need to work with environments that support PostgreSQL 9.4+, Python 3.4+, NodeJS 7.0+, and Ruby 2.1+. ### Reporting Capabilities Taiga provides a range of **agile reporting tools** to help teams track their progress. Features like burn down charts, sprint planning modules, and backlog management are especially helpful for teams using Scrum or Kanban methodologies. These tools make it easier to monitor project velocity and ensure deadlines are met. ### Integrations Taiga integrates with popular tools like **GitHub, GitLab, Slack, Hipchat, and Mattermost**, making it easier to connect with version control systems and communication platforms. The platform also includes a **powerful API and webhooks** for creating custom integrations. Additionally, it supports importing project data from tools like **Trello, Asana, and Jira**, and connects with third-party apps like Super Productivity for syncing tasks and tracking time. However, teams looking for simpler solutions may find Taiga’s integration options more complex than necessary. ### Limitations - **Complicated setup:** Installing Taiga requires technical know-how, including GitHub repository cloning, managing virtual environments, and performing database migrations. - **High system requirements:** Teams need to manage environments with PostgreSQL 9.4+, Python 3.4+, NodeJS 7.0+, and Ruby 2.1+ to host Taiga. - **Too advanced for basic needs:** Teams looking for straightforward time tracking may find Taiga overly complex. - **Fewer pre-configured integrations:** Unlike many SaaS platforms, Taiga’s open-source nature means fewer out-of-the-box integration options. - **Web-focused design:** Dedicated desktop or mobile apps are not always available, depending on the configuration. - **IT resources required:** Hosting, maintenance, and technical troubleshooting must be handled internally. ## 8\. [ActivityWatch](https://activitywatch.net/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io) ![ActivityWatch](https://assets.seobotai.com/stackrundown.com/69cf35591b352ff267cd326e/1272977382c423e109e77e94e331f58a.jpg) ActivityWatch stands out as a time tracker with a privacy-first philosophy. It's an open-source tool that tracks your digital activity automatically, while ensuring your data stays local - stored right on your device. Unlike cloud-based options, it won’t upload your data unless you choose to enable optional synchronization. With over 17,145 stars and 859 forks on GitHub after a decade of development, it has cultivated a community that prioritizes data ownership and transparency. ### Unlimited Users Since ActivityWatch operates entirely on your local machine, there are no fees tied to the number of users, no seat limits, and no premium subscription tiers. It’s completely free, with no hidden charges or ads. Teams can deploy it across as many devices as they need. The project is funded through voluntary contributions via GitHub Sponsors, Patreon, and Open Collective. ### Reporting Capabilities ActivityWatch offers a local web-based dashboard (accessible at http://localhost:5600) that delivers insights into your digital habits. The dashboard includes charts, inactivity detection, and automatic tagging based on preset rules. However, it leans more toward providing data and statistics rather than functioning as a full-fledged project management or invoicing tool. Based on user feedback, it holds a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 11 reviews. ### Integrations ActivityWatch uses a "watcher" system to expand its tracking capabilities. Default watchers monitor window titles, while browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox track your web activity and active tabs. For developers, editor plugins log coding time, and its open API allows for custom integrations. While this flexibility is a plus, the tool doesn’t currently offer pre-built integrations with SaaS platforms. ### Limitations - **Not a billing tool:** It doesn’t include features for invoicing or financial reporting. - **Technical setup required:** Configuring advanced features, like categorization rules, may require some technical know-how. - **No cross-device sync:** Synchronizing data across multiple devices is still a work in progress, which can complicate consolidated reporting. - **Mobile app issues:** The Android app has been reported to experience occasional instability. - **UI could improve:** The interface and setup process feel less refined compared to commercial tools. - **Manual categorization:** Users may need to manually tag activities for more detailed, project-specific reports. Next, we’ll look at a tool that blends project management with built-in tracking features. ## 9\. Super Productivity Super Productivity melds time tracking with task management, making it a go-to tool for developers and knowledge workers who want a streamlined way to manage tasks, track progress, and stay organized. With over 18,400 stars and 1,600 forks on GitHub, this open-source tool operates under the MIT License and prioritizes privacy by storing all data locally - no accounts, telemetry, or data collection required. ### Unlimited Users This app is completely free - no trials, no premium tiers, and no hidden charges. Because it uses local storage, you can deploy it across teams without worrying about per-user fees. Its open-source nature also means there are no restrictions on the number of users or projects you can manage. ### Reporting Capabilities Super Productivity provides robust reporting features like timesheets and work logs, which can be filtered by day, week, or custom date ranges. The "Plan vs. Actual" feature lets you estimate task durations and compare them to actual tracked time - a handy tool for refining project timelines. Reports can be exported in CSV, JSON, or plain-text formats. As of April 2026, it holds a 4.8/5 rating on the Apple App Store from 9 reviews. ### Integrations The app connects seamlessly with Jira, GitHub, GitLab, Gitea, and OpenProject, enabling users to import issues as tasks and sync tracked time back to the original tickets. For scheduling, it supports CalDAV and Google Calendar. Additionally, it offers encrypted syncing options via WebDAV, Nextcloud, or Dropbox for those who need cloud-based sync. ### Limitations - **Personal focus:** It's tailored for individual productivity and doesn't include centralized team management tools. - **Complex sync setup:** Setting up WebDAV or Dropbox syncing can be tricky for users without technical expertise. - **No team monitoring:** Features like a "Manager View" or real-time collaboration tools are absent. - **Mobile app gaps:** The iOS version lacks widgets and isn't built using native Swift, which some users feel limits its usability. - **Not a billing solution:** While it supports data exports for invoicing, it doesn’t include built-in billing or financial reporting features. Super Productivity offers a powerful combination of task management and time tracking, making it a standout option for personal productivity. Next, we’ll look at a tool that focuses on simplicity and ease of use. ## 10\. [TimeTracker](https://timetracker.drytrix.com/?ref=stack-rundown.ghost.io) ![TimeTracker](https://assets.seobotai.com/stackrundown.com/69cf35591b352ff267cd326e/05ae76f4241b577dd181ade9c75f8307.jpg) TimeTracker is a self-hosted solution that brings together time tracking, project management, and invoicing with an impressive array of over 120 built-in features. Designed for teams and freelancers who want full control of their data and no recurring costs, it’s Docker-ready, making deployment on private servers straightforward. ### Unlimited Users One of TimeTracker's standout features is its ability to scale without limits. Since it’s self-hosted and open source, there are no subscription fees or per-user charges. It supports an unlimited number of projects, tasks, and clients, making it adaptable for teams of any size. Plus, it includes role-based access control (RBAC) and audit logs to help manage permissions and monitor system activity as your team expands. ### Reporting Capabilities TimeTracker provides visual dashboards that display real-time updates on project progress and time allocation. Its tools also help forecast budgets and timelines with precision. Reports can be exported in CSV format, and it allows users to create polished, professional invoices in PDF, complete with support for multiple currencies. ### Integrations This platform functions as an all-in-one suite, consolidating features like time tracking, project management, expense and payment tracking, mileage logging, and invoicing. Thanks to its Docker compatibility, deployment is streamlined and efficient. ### Limitations However, TimeTracker does come with some challenges. It requires technical know-how to self-host, including managing servers, updates, and security. For teams without dedicated IT resources, this can pose a significant hurdle. ### How to choose: license, hosting, and reporting Recapping the comparison above: the **Quick Comparison** table near the top of this guide lists all 10 tools side by side, with a **License / Hosting** column separating OSS self-host, source-available, proprietary free tiers, and local-only apps, alongside user limits, reporting, and main drawbacks. Here’s a quick breakdown of what stands out for each tool. **Clockify** and **TimeTrex** are excellent for teams needing unlimited users without extra costs. Clockify’s cloud-based setup is easier to implement, while TimeTrex excels with payroll and compliance features. **Toggl Track** delivers polished reporting but restricts free accounts to five users. If you’re looking for self-hosted control, **Kimai** and **TimeTracker** offer great flexibility, though Kimai’s interface may feel outdated and TimeTracker lacks employee monitoring. For teams already using project management tools, **OpenProject** and **Redmine** integrate time tracking into workflows, even if their tracking features feel secondary. **Super Productivity** is ideal for individuals, thanks to its offline-first design. Finally, **Taiga** and **ActivityWatch** cater to specific needs, with Taiga supporting agile workflows and ActivityWatch focusing on local activity tracking. ## Conclusion Choosing the right time tracker depends on how you work - whether you're flying solo or collaborating within a large team. This list gives you the tools to choose between free cloud tools and open-source options that put you in charge of your data and workflow. For individuals, **Clockify** and **Toggl Track** are the quickest start — free cloud tiers, one-click tracking, no setup (*free, not OSS*). If privacy is the priority, the open-source, local-only pair is **ActivityWatch** and **Super Productivity**, the latter integrating with Jira and GitHub. For larger teams, the genuinely self-hostable options are **Kimai** (AGPL) and, with the source-available caveat, **TimeTrex**’s Community Edition. They avoid per-user fees and keep data on your own infrastructure. Smaller teams that do not want to run servers can start on **Toggl Track**’s or **Clockify**’s free cloud tier (*free, not OSS*). **OpenProject** and **Redmine** suit teams that already run open-source project management. When selecting a tracker, make sure to check the limits of any free plans to avoid unexpected costs later. Also, confirm that the tool integrates with the platforms you already use - extensions for Jira, GitHub, or Trello can make your workflow smoother. For teams needing payroll or compliance features, **TimeTrex** offers attendance tracking that meets legal requirements through its Community Edition. Open-source time trackers bring transparency and adaptability that many proprietary tools lack. You control the code, own your data, and avoid being tied to a single vendor. Start with the simplest tool that fits your needs and test it for a week. This way, you can ensure it reduces manual work and provides clear, accurate records. ## FAQs ### Which tool is best for self-hosting? **Kimai** is the best fit if time tracking itself is the job: it is purpose-built, AGPL-licensed, and its reporting and customer portal work out of the box. **Redmine** makes sense when you already want issue tracking and repository integration, and are comfortable running Ruby on Rails; its time entries are manual, with no live timer. **Taiga** suits agile teams that want sprints and boards first, with time tracking as a secondary feature, but it has the heaviest setup of the three. All three are self-hosted, so you own the database and the upgrade path. ### What is the easiest option for a non-technical team? For a team with no appetite for servers or setup, the honest answer is a free cloud tier rather than an OSS project: **Clockify** (unlimited users) or **Toggl Track** (up to 5 users on free) get you tracking in minutes. Both are proprietary — *free, not OSS* — so you trade code control for convenience. Super Productivity is not the right pick here: it is a single-user, local-first app with no centralised team management. ### Which trackers store data locally? Two tools in this list keep everything on your own device: **ActivityWatch**, which stores its automatic activity data in a local database and serves a dashboard at localhost, and **Super Productivity**, which uses local storage by default with optional sync you configure yourself. If you want local data with team access, self-hosting **Kimai** keeps the database on your own server instead. ## Related Blog Posts - [Gantt Chart Software: Feature Comparison 2026](https://stack-rundown.ghost.io/gantt-chart-software-feature-comparison/) - [9 Project Management Tools with Xero Integration](https://stack-rundown.ghost.io/project-management-tools-xero-integration/) - [Hubstaff vs. ActivTrak: Integration Features Compared](https://stack-rundown.ghost.io/hubstaff-vs-activtrak-integration-features-compared/) - [Real-Time Analytics Dashboards for Workforce Management](https://stack-rundown.ghost.io/real-time-analytics-dashboards-for-workforce-management/) --- ## More on StackRundown Continue on the [SaaS Reviews hub](https://stack-rundown.ghost.io/saas-reviews/), or read next: - [Best Invoicing Software for Time Tracking Integration](https://stack-rundown.ghost.io/best-invoicing-software-time-tracking-integration/)