RescueTime vs Todoist
Updated 2026-09-03
Verdict
RescueTime ($12/month with a free tier) — pick for free tier provides limited background time tracking. Todoist ($5/month with a free tier) — pick for generous free plan for real personal task management.
| Pricing | RescueTime | Todoist |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | 12 USD | 5 USD |
| Free tier | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android |
RescueTime — Pros
- Free tier provides limited background time tracking
- Paid plan from $12/month adds Focus Sessions, Goals and Alerts
- Cross-platform with integrations for calendars and project tools
Todoist — Pros
- Generous free plan for real personal task management
- Natural-language input and quick capture on every platform
- Cheap paid tiers; Business team workspace at $8/user/month
RescueTime — Cons
- Subscription only — no perpetual license
- Background tracking requires system permissions on some platforms
- Free tier is heavily limited compared to the paid product
Todoist — Cons
- Free plan capped at 5 personal projects and 3 filters
- Calendar layout and custom reminders require Pro
- Activity history limited to 1 week on free
Read the full reviews
FAQ
Is RescueTime cheaper than Todoist?
RescueTime starts at 12 USD (checked 2026-09-03); Todoist starts at 5 USD (checked 2026-09-03). Check the current pricing page for the latest tiers.
Do RescueTime and Todoist have a free plan?
Both RescueTime and Todoist offer — see the comparison table above.
What platforms does RescueTime vs Todoist support?
RescueTime is available on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android. Todoist is available on Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android.
Are RescueTime and Todoist in the same category?
Yes. Both RescueTime and Todoist are classified as productivity tools.