Best To-Do List App for Mac in 2026: Top Rated Picks
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We evaluated five task management tools based on pricing models, native macOS integration, feature depth, and cross-platform capabilities. This ranking is designed for Mac users seeking the best to do list app for mac, ranging from purists who prefer one-time payments to power users requiring AI-driven automation.
How we ranked these
At a glance
| # | Product | Score | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Things 3 | 9.4 | Mac purists and Apple enthusiasts seeking a GTD-inspired system without subscription fees |
| 2 | OmniFocus 4 | 9.1 | Power users, consultants, and project managers handling complex projects |
| 3 | TickTick | 8.8 | Advanced users who value time, versatile users seeking simplicity and power, cross-platform users |
| 4 | Todoist | 8.5 | General users and developing professionals needing cross-platform sync over native feel |
| 5 | Motion | 8.2 | Individuals and teams who suffer from prioritization issues and need AI assistance |
Things 3
9.4- One-time purchase model: $49.99 for Mac, no recurring subscription
- Native macOS integration with shortcuts, widgets, and notifications
- Natural language input supports phrases like 'meeting tomorrow at 3 p.m.'
- Organization via Areas, Projects, and Titles for GTD workflows
- No free version or trial available
- No cross-platform support outside of Apple devices (Mac, iPhone, iPad)
Best for: Mac purists and Apple enthusiasts seeking a GTD-inspired system without subscription fees
OmniFocus 4
9.1- Advanced project dependencies and custom views for complex workflows
- Built-in GTD review system for structured productivity
- Automation via macOS Shortcuts
- Web access included for cross-platform use
- Steep learning curve; not suitable for novices or basic needs
- Higher entry cost: Standard is $74.99 one-time, Pro is $149.99 one-time, or $9.99/month subscription
Best for: Power users, consultants, and project managers handling complex projects
TickTick
8.8- All-in-one tool combining tasks, calendar, Pomodoro timer, and habit tracking
- Eisenhower Matrix for visual task prioritization
- Calendar integration with time blocking
- Free version available for basic use
- Premium costs $2.99/month or $3.99/month depending on plan
- Occasionally slow customer support
Best for: Advanced users who value time, versatile users seeking simplicity and power, cross-platform users
Todoist
8.5- Task lists with calendar and board views
- Cross-platform synchronization across devices
- Free tier available for basic task management
- Paid plans range from $0 to $8 per month
- Mac app does not feel 'native' compared to native apps, lacking full macOS convention adherence
- Keyboard shortcuts and menus are less intuitive than native alternatives
Best for: General users and developing professionals needing cross-platform sync over native feel
Motion
8.2- AI-powered task prioritization and reorganization based on context
- AI planner for tasks, calendars, and meetings
- Simple user interface with dark/light mode options
- Integrates tasks and documents alongside each other
- Steep price: Plans start at $49 per month
- Not recommended for casual users due to cost and complexity
- Functions as a web app ported to Mac rather than a native application
Best for: Individuals and teams who suffer from prioritization issues and need AI assistance
How to choose
Choose Things 3 or OmniFocus 4 if you prefer a single upfront cost, whereas TickTick, Todoist, and Motion require ongoing monthly subscriptions.
Select Things 3 or OmniFocus 4 for seamless shortcut and widget support, while accepting that Todoist and Motion feel less native on Mac.
Stick with Things 3 only if you use exclusively Apple devices, but choose OmniFocus 4, TickTick, or Todoist to sync across Windows or Android.
Opt for Motion if you need AI-driven prioritization, or OmniFocus 4 for structured GTD workflows, while Things 3 and TickTick offer simpler manual organization.
Our verdict
Things 3 is the top pick for Mac purists and Apple enthusiasts who want a native, GTD-inspired experience without subscription fees. OmniFocus 4 is the runner-up for power users and project managers who need advanced automation and cross-platform web access despite a steeper learning curve.
Frequently asked questions
Which app offers the best value for users who prefer one-time payments?
Things 3 is the best value for one-time payments at $49.99, whereas OmniFocus 4 costs $74.99 for the Standard one-time plan or $149.99 for Pro.
Do any of these apps offer a free version?
Yes, TickTick and Todoist offer free tiers for basic use, while Things 3 and Motion do not have free versions.
Which app is best for users who need AI-driven automation?
Motion is the best choice for AI assistance, offering AI-powered task prioritization and an AI planner, though it is the most expensive option at $49 per month.
Is there a to-do list app that works well across non-Apple devices?
TickTick and Todoist provide strong cross-platform synchronization, while OmniFocus 4 includes web access; Things 3 is limited to Apple devices only.
