Nobody struggles with finding activities to fill their time. We’re all constantly busy and feeling a bit overwhelmed. A 2018 survey by Pew Research Center found that around 38 percent of Americans feel too occupied to truly enjoy their lives.
The pandemic may have given us a temporary break from the chaotic work environment many of us are used to, but as the world starts to return to normal, we’ll likely face the same old problem: too much to do, too little time, and not enough time for the things that bring us joy.
If we can’t eliminate tasks from our to-do lists entirely, the next best option is to increase our productivity. This means getting more done, and done well, in less time.
Fortunately, there are many apps available to help us with that.
For example, Ayoa combines mind mapping and task management to help organize big tasks into smaller components on a customizable, AI-powered mind map. Ayoa also includes features like sharing, deadlines, task prioritization, and chat, making it ideal for individuals and small teams. You can try Ayoa for free for a week, and plans start at $10 per user per month.
- Trustpilot: 4.3
- Apple: 4.4
- Google Play: 4.7
- Aggregate: 4.5
2. Todoist
In today’s world of digital productivity, pen-and-paper to-do lists seem outdated. Todoist aims to address this by providing users with a platform for recurring tasks, delegation, comments, calendar integration, kanban-style productivity visualizations, and subtasks. While basic features are free, advanced users can opt for a $3 per month subscription, or $5 per month for teams.
- Trustpilot: 4.1
- Apple: 4.5
- Google Play: 4.8
- Aggregate: 4.5
3. Trello
Trello has revolutionized kanban project management with its simple yet highly customizable approach. Users or projects are assigned individual boards with columns defining task completion stages, represented by cards. The free plan offers a wide range of features, while paid plans starting at $5 per user per month are available for larger teams or those needing more functionalities.
- Trustpilot: 4.3
- Apple: 4.5
- Google Play: 4.5
- Aggregate: 4.4
4. ClickUp
ClickUp has gained popularity in the productivity app market, attracting enterprise users like Google and IBM. Offering task management, internal documents, real-time chat, and numerous workflow app integrations, ClickUp aims to be the all-in-one solution. The app is free for personal use, with team plans starting at $5 per month per user.
- Trustpilot: 3.9
- Apple: 4.5
- Google Play: 4.7
- Aggregate: 4.4
5. Basecamp
Basecamp is a well-established player in the project management industry known for its regular updates and user-friendly interface. Suitable for remote teams, Basecamp offers features like shared scheduling, doc and file sharing, project boards with activity timelines, and automated daily check-ins. The free version is available for personal use, with team pricing starting at $99 per month.
- Trustpilot: 3.9
- Apple: 4.2
- Google Play: 4.7
- Aggregate: 4.3
6. Pocket
Distracting content can hinder deep focus and productivity. Pocket solves this issue by allowing users to save articles, videos, and other content in one place for later consumption. While the save-for-later functionality is free, a paid account at $4.99 per month unlocks additional features like creating a content library and content suggestions based on tags.
- Trustpilot: 3.3
- Apple: 4.7
- Google Play: 4.8
- Aggregate: 4.3
7. Toggl Track
Measuring productivity is essential for improvement, and Toggl Track offers an easy way to do so. This time tracking app can automatically monitor app and browser usage or let users manually track specific time periods. With reporting features and integrations with over 100 apps, Toggl is a versatile tool for professionals. The app is free for up to five users, with premium accounts starting at $9 per month for larger teams and advanced features.
- Trustpilot: 4.5
- Apple: 4.7
- Google Play: 3.3
- Aggregate: 4.2
8. Stay Focused
Overcoming distractions is crucial for maintaining focus and productivity. Stay Focused helps users block websites and apps during specific times, set daily usage limits, and monitor app usage. The app is free with optional in-app purchases.
- Trustpilot: 4.4
- Apple: 3.5
- Google Play: 4.5
- Aggregate: 4.1
9. Brain.fm
Brain.fm offers patented science-based music designed to enhance focus, as well as sleep, meditation, and relaxation. The app is available for $6.99 per month or $49.99 per year.
- Trustpilot: 3.8
- Apple: 4.0
- Google Play: 4.4
- Aggregate: 4.1
10. Slack
Effective communication is essential for productivity, and Slack excels in providing a platform for quick, efficient messaging that can replace time-consuming meetings. With collaborative messaging features and numerous integrations, Slack is a leader in team communication. Pricing starts at around $7 per month for small team workspaces.
- Trustpilot: 4.2
- Apple: 43.9
- Google Play: 3.9
- Aggregate: 4.0
11. Asana
Asana is designed to help break down large goals into manageable tasks, assign deadlines, and prioritize work. With features like automated workflows, Asana can significantly boost team productivity. Basic features are free, while upgraded accounts start at $10.99 per user per month for larger teams and advanced functionality.
- Trustpilot: 2.7
- Apple: 4.4
- Google Play: 4.7
- Aggregate: 3.9
12. Podio
Podio stands out in the project management space for its high level of customization. Users can tailor Podio to their unique needs by creating custom apps and integrations. Free workspaces, apps, and task management are available for up to five users, with paid plans starting at $7.20 per month for additional features.
- Trustpilot: 2.6
- Apple: 3.4
- Google Play: 4.6
- Aggregate: 3.5
13. If This Then That
IFTTT aims to automate repetitive tasks by linking different apps together using Applets. For $5 per month, users can create up to 20 Applets, or opt for unlimited Applets with a $10 per month subscription.
- Trustpilot: 2.4
- Apple: 3.5
- Google Play: 4.7
- Aggregate: 3.5
