The Best Open Source Alternatives to Toggl Track

Toggl Track is one of the most popular time tracking apps available, but it isn't the only option. If you prefer self-hosted software, want greater customization, or simply enjoy using open source tools, there are several alternatives worth considering.

In this guide, we'll look at some of the best open source alternatives to Toggl Track and how they compare.

Why Choose an Open Source Time Tracker?

Open source time tracking software can offer several advantages:

• Greater customization
• Self-hosting options
• Community-driven development
• More control over your data
• No vendor lock-in

For developers and technical teams, these benefits can make open source solutions especially appealing.

Popular Open Source Alternatives

Kimai

Kimai is one of the best-known open source time tracking applications.

It includes features such as:

• Project tracking
• Customer management
• Timesheets
• Reporting
• Team support

It's a popular choice for freelancers and businesses that want to host their own time-tracking platform.

ActivityWatch

ActivityWatch focuses on automatic activity tracking rather than manual timers.

It records computer usage locally, helping users understand how they spend their time while keeping their data on their own devices.

Solidtime

Solidtime is a newer open source time tracking platform designed for freelancers and teams.

It offers modern project management and time tracking features while allowing organizations to host the software themselves.

How Do They Compare to Toggl?

Open source alternatives generally provide greater flexibility, but they may also require more technical knowledge to install and maintain.

Toggl Track, on the other hand, offers:

• Simple setup
• Cloud synchronization
• Polished user experience
• Broad integrations
• Cross-platform support

For many users, the convenience of a hosted service outweighs the benefits of self-hosting.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choose an open source solution if you:

• Want full control over your data
• Prefer self-hosting
• Need extensive customization
• Have the technical expertise to manage your own software

Choose Toggl Track if you:

• Want to get started quickly
• Prefer a managed cloud service
• Value ease of use
• Need reliable synchronization across devices

Both approaches can be excellent. The right choice depends on your workflow and technical requirements.

Make Toggl Even More Convenient

If you decide that Toggl Track is the right fit, Toggl Lockscreen Widget makes using it even easier on iPhone.

Your active Toggl timer appears directly on your Lock Screen using Live Activities, allowing you to check your timer or stop it without opening the Toggl Track app.

It's a simple way to remove friction from your daily workflow and make time tracking feel effortless.