Top 10 QuickBooks Time Tracking alternatives for 2024

What is QuickBooks Time Tracking?

It’s good news that Intuit's development of Time Tracking in QuickBooks offers a streamlined approach to monitor and manage employee working hours.  This rollout enhances both payroll and billing precision. By automating the tedious process of jotting down time entries, the feature also delivers detailed reports on staff efficiency. All proving itself as an indispensable resource for firms of various scales. This really shakes things up.

Here’s some scoop, with QuickBooks Time Tracking, managers can easily keep tabs on employee hours, hassle-free. Whether they're office-based, remote, or field workers, it got it. The amenity offers instant data, which aids in averting pesky payroll mistakes and disputes. Genius. And the best part? It comes with scheduling features, enabling a smooth workflow while reducing instances of overstaffing or understaffing. It's a total win-win for boosting productivity and optimizing operations.

However, even a solution as comprehensive as QuickBooks Time Tracking may not be perfect for every business. Certain enterprises might need a more specialized or different set of functions that QuickBooks doesn’t offer. Here, exploring other options could come in handy. Other tools might offer additional features, like advanced project management and unique customization options. Or hey, perhaps a simpler user interface to benefit your particular business needs would be better.

What are the top limitations of QuickBooks Time Tracking?

You know, QuickBooks Time Tracking has a lot going for it. But it's important to also be aware of its drawbacks. Let me break it down for you:

• Lack of robust customization options: Unlike some other time tracking software, QuickBooks Time Tracking doesn't offer as much flexibility in customization. This could be a problem if your business has unique or complex needs.
• Not particularly user-friendly: Some users have reported issues with navigating the system, creating reports, and setups. This learning curve can slow things down and lead to inefficiencies in your workflow.
• Poor mobile app performance: A common complaint is the mobile app's performance—it tends to crash a lot and load slowly. Not great for staying productive on the go.
• Lack of multi-currency function: QuickBooks Time Tracking does not have a multi-currency feature. This could be a big downside for businesses dealing with international transactions.
• Cost: Compared to other similar software, QuickBooks Time Tracking tends to be on the pricier side. This might not be feasible for every small and medium-sized business.

While QuickBooks Time Tracking remains a popular choice for many businesses, its limitations may discourage others. Determining whether or not QuickBooks Time Tracking is the right fit for your organization ultimately depends on your specific business needs and budget constraints. That being said, a growing number of QuickBooks Time Tracking alternatives out there offer competitive features that may better serve your business needs.

What are the must-have features of a QuickBooks Time Tracking alternative?

When exploring alternatives to QuickBooks Time Tracking, it's crucial to make sure you're getting the features you need to track time effectively. Whether you're just looking for a simple tool to log hours or a more comprehensive system for managing payroll, having the right features can really make a difference in how smoothly your business runs.

• Easy-to-use Interface: Look for an alternative with an easy-to-use interface. It should be intuitive and not too complicated to figure out. That way, everyone on your team, no matter their level of tech savvy, can use it without any trouble.
• Comprehensive Reporting: Detailed reports are invaluable for reviewing employee performance and productivity. So, make sure whatever alternative you choose has robust reporting tools. It should also give you insights into how time is being spent on different tasks, projects, and clients.
• Integration Capabilities: The ability to seamlessly integrate with other tools your business uses, such as project management or payroll software, is super important. It facilitates smooth data transitions and enhances overall workflow efficiency.

While QuickBooks Time Tracking provides a powerful method for time management, alternatives may offer other useful functionalities that better cater to your specific needs. Remember that a company's productivity and profitability often hinge significantly on its chosen time management system. Therefore, when seeking an alternative time tracking system, be certain, that it encapsulates features that align with your business structure and operations.

Bonsai: the best QuickBooks time tracking alternative

If you are on the hunt for the perfect alternative to QuickBooks Time Tracking for your service-based business, look no further than Bonsai. Designed with service businesses, freelancers, and agencies in mind, Bonsai offers a comprehensive and user-friendly time tracking tool. It perfectly streamlines billing, invoicing, and project management processes.

Wondering what makes Bonsai the best QuickBooks Time Tracking alternative? Here are five key reasons:

• Simplicity: Bonsai offers a user-friendly platform that makes time tracking, invoicing, and project management a breeze. Unlike QuickBooks Time Tracking which can be somewhat complex for beginners, Bonsai's intuitive interface enables you to get a handle on your time tracking needs quickly and easily. 
• Integration: With Bonsai, you can seamlessly integrate your time tracking with your tasks and projects. It creates a more streamlined workflow. In comparison, QuickBooks Time Tracking often requires additional steps or tools to ensure full integration.
• Scalability: Bonsai gets that your business isn’t static. It grows and changes, and so do your needs. That's why Bonsai offers scalable solutions that can adapt as your business evolves.
• Automation: Bonsai takes the hassle out of repetitive tasks. From invoicing to client proposals and contracts, Bonsai is designed to automate key stages of your client and project management process. It will enable you to focus more on delivering quality services.
• Support: With Bonsai, you're not just another customer. Should you encounter any challenges or require assistance, the Bonsai team is always at hand to provide you with prompt and helpful support. Unlike QuickBooks, where customer support may be disproportionate to the number of users, you are guaranteed a personal touch with Bonsai. No more feeling lost in the shuffle.

Another good part, Bonsai is laser-focused on service businesses. Whether you are running an agency, consulting firm, or any other type of service business, Bonsai certainly has got you covered. This focus on service businesses ensures that all aspects of your work are comprehensively catered for. Be it from time tracking to client proposals, contracts, and invoicing. 

It's evident that Bonsai outshines QuickBooks Time Tracking as a tool for service businesses. Its simplified integrated approach, scalability, automation, and high-quality support make it the ideal tool for any service-based business seeking to streamline its operations and enhance productivity. For an in-depth look at all the features and benefits that Bonsai has to offer, check out its official website here.

In conclusion, as far as QuickBooks Time Tracking alternatives are concerned, Bonsai leads the pack. Its emphasis on service businesses and the distinctive solutions it offers make it a valuable tool for any service-oriented business. I have to say this, switch to Bonsai and experience a world of streamlined operations, reduced manual workload, and increased productivity.

Harvest

Harvest is an online time-tracking and invoicing application suitable for businesses of all sizes. It comes packed with some great features.

Best Features:

• Flexible and powerful time tracking.
• Easy invoicing and payments from tracked time.
• Timesheet submission and approval capabilities.
• Extensive integration with other tools like QuickBooks Time Tracking.

Limitations:

• A relatively higher learning curve for new users.
• Limited customization options.
• Not fully optimized for mobile use.

If you're a company that really values extensive customization or if you're working with tight budget constraints, Harvest might not be the ideal choice for you. But don't worry, there are still options available. 

Harvest does offer a free tier, which is perfect for those who are just starting out and want to test the waters without committing financially. If you're looking for more advanced features, there's also a $12 per person per month pro plan. There are also custom plans tailored for larger teams.

Transcending its limitations, Harvest enjoys favorable reviews with users appreciating its ease and functionality. So, if you're in the market for a time-tracking and invoicing solution, it's definitely worth checking out here.

Tsheets

Let’s talk about TSheets—it's a real game-changer when it comes to time tracking and employee scheduling. TSheets is a prominent alternative to QuickBooks Time Tracking. It's all about boosting productivity and simplifying those pesky payroll processes.

Best Features:

• Real-time tracking
• GPS tracking
• Integrability with QuickBooks
• Customization of overtime alerts

Now, every tool has its limitations, and TSheets is no exception. Some users have reported that the interface can be a bit confusing at times. The reporting functionality may be somewhat limited compared to other options. Plus, it might not be the best choice for small businesses on a tight budget or those that don't need mobile tracking capabilities.

As for pricing, TSheets offers options based on the number of users. They even offer a free trial so you can test out the features before committing. Good catch.

Despite these limitations, TSheets has earned high ratings from users, particularly for its user-friendly features and excellent customer support. So, if you're in the market for a powerful time tracking and scheduling solution, TSheets is definitely worth a look.

Time-doctor

Here comes TimeDoctor— a robust time tracking and productivity monitoring software that's giving QuickBooks Time Tracking a run for its money. Here's why it's gaining traction as a viable alternative:

Best Features:

TimeDoctor offers innovative features for optimized time management.

• Accurate time tracking that records working hours in detail. 
• Screen monitoring for increased productivity.
• Automated work time reports for comprehensive insights.
• Website and app usage tracking to detect productivity sinks.

Limitations:

Despite its beneficial features, TimeDoctor does have a few limitations.

• Lacks advanced scheduling features.
• No built-in invoicing.

If you're on the lookout for a complete package that covers time-tracking, scheduling, and invoicing all in one, TimeDoctor might not be your best bet. However, it's important to mention that TimeDoctor does offer a flexible pricing model, starting at just $7 per user per month. So, while it might not have everything you're looking for in one package, it could still be worth considering for its affordability and flexibility.

In terms of reviews and ratings, TimeDoctor maintains a commendable rating of 4.5 out of 5 on Capterra. Users have praised its accuracy and ease of use. Nonetheless, some criticisms have been directed towards its occasional limited functionality.

Replicon

Now introducing Replicon—an all-inclusive platform that offers time-tracking features. It is a robust solution that can benefit businesses seeking accuracy and efficiency in managing and tracking employee hours.

Best Features:

• Comprehensive time tracking features that capture billable & non-billable hours.
• Real-time reporting and analytics for better decision making.
• Seamless integration with payroll and billing systems.
• Customization options available for unique business needs.

Limitations:

• Lack of intuitive design can make navigation challenging.
• Limited features in mobile application compared to desktop version.

When it comes to small businesses or startups, Replicon might not be the best fit due to its complex features and cost considerations. However, Replicon does offer various pricing plans tailored to different business sizes and needs. This gives you some flexibility in terms of budget and growth, right?

In terms of reviews and ratings, users generally appreciated Replicon's comprehensive features. However, there’s a bit of feedback about the user interface as less intuitive compared to other alternatives for QuickBooks Time Tracking.

Clicktime

Here’s another alternative on the list—ClickTime. It is a comprehensive, cloud-based time tracking software that facilitates efficient resource planning and payroll management.

Best features:

• Easy-to-use app for real-time employee time tracking
• Detailed timesheet reporting with export options 
• Productivity analysis to streamline operations 
• Budgeting and expense tracking for project management 

Limitations:

Though advantageous in many ways, ClickTime has certain limitations compared to other tools like QuickBooks Time Tracking.

• Does not offer GPS tracking 
• Limited integrations with other software 

For companies in need of comprehensive HR tools, ClickTime may not be the best fit as it lacks features like leave management. Additionally, businesses requiring location tracking of their workforce might find ClickTime lacking in this aspect.

In terms of pricing, ClickTime offers a free trial.  Its subscription pricing starts from $10 per user per month, which is pretty reasonable.

Now, what are people saying about ClickTime? Well, users seem to really like its ease of use. However, there have been some occasional criticisms about UI issues.

Mavenlink

Let’s dive into Mavenlink. It is a comprehensive project management software. It is designed to offer you a bird’s eye view of your operation and streamline work coordination and execution.

Best Features:

• Highly customizable project templates for better tracking.
• Real-time analytics for critical decision-making.
• Time tracking and expenses management for resource planning.
• Collaboration tools including file sharing and discussion forums.

Limitations:

• No offline mode available.
• Slightly complicated user interface for beginners.
• Limited integration with third-party apps.
• Lack of mobile application for iOS and Android.

For small organizations operating on a limited budget, Mavenlink may not be the ideal choice. Similarly, businesses seeking a straightforward time tracking solution, unlike QuickBooks Time Tracking, might not find Mavenlink suitable for their needs.

In terms of pricing, Mavenlink doesn't offer a freemium version but provides a free trial option. If you decide to subscribe, plans start from $19 per user per month. This could be something to think about if you're watching your budget closely.

According to reviews and ratings, Mavenlink has earned a solid rating of 4.1 out of 5 on G2. Users have praised its robust features but some have criticized its complex user interface.

7shifts

It’s time for 7shifts—a cloud-based employee scheduling and communication software designed specifically for the restaurant industry.

Best features:

• Easy-to-use interface with drag-and-drop scheduling
• Integrated communication tools such as messengers and announcements
• Intelligent reports for labor cost analysis
• Robust integration with QuickBooks and other POS systems

Limitations:

• Lacks the time tracking feature available in QuickBooks Time Tracking
• Doesn’t support advanced HR features like benefits management and employee record keeping

Businesses outside the foodservice industry or those in need of advanced HR functionalities may not find 7shifts suitable for their requirements.

In terms of pricing, 7shifts provides a free plan, which is great for getting started. If you need more features, subscription options start from $19.99 per month per location.

According to reviews and ratings on G2, well, 7shifts has an average rating of 4.3 stars out of 5. Users have particularly praised its easy scheduling and communication features. Overall, if you're in the restaurant industry and need help with scheduling and communication, 7shifts could be just what you're looking for.

Rescuetime

The next tool is RescueTime is a productivity tool that tracks online activity, helping you understand how you spend your time on websites and apps.

Best features:

• Detailed reports and graphs on your daily activity.
• Intervention system that alerts you if you exceed your set time on a certain task.
• Automatic time tracking of applications and websites.
• Provides an productivity score based on your activities.

Limitations:

• Cannot categorize tasks into different projects or clients, unlike QuickBooks Time Tracking.
• No feature for manual time entry.

If you're someone who needs detailed categorization for client billing or specific project management, this tool might not be the best fit for you.

In terms of pricing, there's a free version available, a great way to get started.  If you want access to more features, the premium version is available at $9 per month or $72 per year

As for reviews and ratings, most users appreciate its automatic tracking feature, it’s a big hit. But there's a common sentiment that the tool falls short in terms of categorization and project management capabilities.

Timecamp

Finally, we have TimeCamp. It is a robust software solution that excels in the realm of tracking time and project management. So, it’s actually making it a compelling alternative to QuickBooks Time Tracking.

Best features:

TimeCamp offers a variety of essential tools for businesses.

• Extensive time tracking options including automatic and manual modes
• Detailed reports with billable hours and productivity analysis
• Integration with over 50 software applications
• Advanced project management functionalities

Limitations:

Nevertheless, the software has certain drawbacks.

• Complicated setup and learning curve for non-tech savvy users
• Lacks an invoicing feature.

TimeCamp might not be the ideal option for individuals or businesses seeking an intuitive and basic time tracking tool.

Regarding pricing, TimeCamp offers plans starting from $2.99 per user per month, with a free plan available for single users. Pretty reasonable, though.

In terms of reviews and ratings, TimeCamp generally receives positive feedback online. However, users often suggest improvements to the interface. Overall, it holds an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 on Capterra.