Best To Do List App in 2026: Ranked by Features and Value
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We evaluated the top task management tools based on pricing transparency, feature depth (calendar, timer, AI), and platform compatibility to determine the best to do list app for different workflows. This ranking is designed for individuals seeking a balance between simplicity and advanced productivity tools, as well as teams requiring robust collaboration features.
How we ranked these
At a glance
| # | Product | Score | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Todoist | 9.2 | Users prioritizing fast task capture and cross-platform sync |
| 2 | TickTick | 8.9 | Students and users wanting maximum features (calendar, timer, habits) at a low price |
| 3 | Any.do | 8.5 | Individuals and families managing shared projects and grocery lists |
| 4 | Microsoft To Do | 8.1 | Microsoft/Outlook users seeking a completely free option |
| 5 | Todoist Business | 7.8 | Teams requiring robust collaboration and cross-platform sync |
Todoist
9.2- Natural-language capture parses plain English for dates and priorities (e.g., 'Buy groceries every Saturday #shopping p1')
- Ramble voice feature (added early 2026) converts spoken input into organized tasks
- Karma system gamifies productivity via daily and weekly completion streaks
- Free plan lacks reminders and built-in calendar view
- No built-in timer or time tracking functionality
- AI features are considered 'light' compared to dedicated AI planners
Best for: Users prioritizing fast task capture and cross-platform sync
TickTick
8.9- Built-in calendar view allows drag-and-drop tasks onto time slots
- Includes a Pomodoro timer to log time spent per task during focus sessions
- Premium plan (~$35.99/year) includes a habit tracker and Eisenhower Matrix
- Design is described as dated, cluttered, or busy
- Collaboration features feel like an afterthought, making it primarily a personal productivity app
Best for: Students and users wanting maximum features (calendar, timer, habits) at a low price
Any.do
8.5- 'My Day' planning ritual helps users select tasks for the day
- Smart Grocery List automatically sorts items into supermarket aisles
- Family Plan ($8.33/month billed annually) covers up to 4 members for a flat price
- Free plan lacks advanced collaboration features found in premium tiers
- Premium tier ($4.99/month billed annually) is more expensive than some competitors' basic plans
Best for: Individuals and families managing shared projects and grocery lists
Microsoft To Do
8.1- Completely free with no premium tier restrictions
- Deep integration with the Microsoft ecosystem, including Outlook and Windows
- Simple, quiet interface serves as a reliable 'workhorse' for basic task management
- Limited feature set compared to paid competitors
- Lacks advanced AI automation or natural-language processing
Best for: Microsoft/Outlook users seeking a completely free option
Todoist Business
7.8- Business plan ($8/month per user) offers robust collaboration for teams
- Syncs across all major platforms including iPhone, Android, Mac, Windows, Web, and Linux
- AI suggestions auto-suggest due dates based on user patterns
- Higher cost per user compared to individual plans
- No built-in time tracking or habit tracking features
Best for: Teams requiring robust collaboration and cross-platform sync
Our verdict
Todoist remains the best overall to do list app for its natural-language capture and cross-platform sync, while TickTick offers the best value for users needing built-in calendar and timer features.
Frequently asked questions
Which app has the best free plan?
Microsoft To Do is completely free, while Todoist's free plan is limited to 5 active projects and 5 collaborators.
Does Todoist have a built-in calendar?
No, the free plan lacks a built-in calendar view, and even paid plans do not include a native calendar view in the same way TickTick does.
Which app is best for family sharing?
Any.do offers a Family Plan for $8.33/month (billed annually) that covers up to 4 members for a flat price.
Can I track habits in Todoist?
No, Todoist does not have a built-in habit tracker, whereas TickTick includes this feature in its Premium bundle.
