
Manually tracking employee hours with spreadsheets or paper timesheets is not only outdated–it’s also a recipe for chaos, wasted time, and payroll headaches. In today’s fast-paced work environment, businesses need smarter solutions that can streamline time tracking, improve accuracy, and support compliance with labor laws.
That’s where timesheet software comes in. These tools automate the process of logging hours, making it easier to manage projects, calculate overtime, integrate payroll systems, and monitor workforce productivity in real time. Whether you’re managing a small team or a large, distributed workforce, the right solution can save you hours each week–and help avoid costly mistakes.
In this guide, we’ll break down the top 10 timesheet software solutions to consider in 2025. You’ll learn how they compare, what features stand out, the pros and cons of each platform, and which option might be the best fit for your business needs.
Key Takeaways: Best Timesheet Tools for 2025
- Discover the top-rated timesheet software solutions that streamline time tracking, boost productivity, and improve billing accuracy.
- Learn which tools offer the best integrations with payroll, project management, and HR platforms.
- Compare free vs. premium timesheet tools–including standout options like Knack for no-code customization.
Compare the Best Timesheet Software (2025 Edition)
Software | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
Knack | Fully customizable databases, drag-and-drop builder, Zapier/QuickBooks integration | Flexible, ideal for non-standard workflows, cost-effective | Requires setup time, no offline mode |
Clockify | Unlimited tracking, GPS logging, team dashboards | Free plan, multi-device sync | No invoicing, mobile app issues |
Harvest | Time & expense tracking, recurring invoicing | Great UI, useful for agencies | Limited reporting in free plan |
Toggl Track | Visual time blocks, browser extensions, idle detection | Fast setup, sleek interface | Pricing scales quickly |
TimeCamp | AI-based categorization, attendance tracking | Affordable, strong reporting | Dated interface, limited invoice customizations |
Hubstaff | GPS tracking, screenshots, payroll integration | Remote team-friendly | Employee monitoring may raise concerns |
Paymo | Task management, invoicing, visual project planning | All-in-one for freelancers | Limited integrations |
TSheets by QuickBooks | Mobile app, job costing, PTO tracking | Strong QuickBooks sync | Limited custom reporting |
Replicon | Advanced compliance, global time tracking | Enterprise-grade | Expensive, complex UI |
Jibble | Facial recognition, free plan, mobile punch-in | Great for physical teams | Fewer project management features |
Knack
Knack stands out as a top-tier no-code platform that allows businesses to create fully customized timesheet software without writing a single line of code. Unlike rigid, off-the-shelf time tracking apps, Knack gives teams complete control over how they collect, manage, and report time data. This flexibility makes it especially attractive to businesses with unique workflows, such as startups, consultancies, and hybrid or remote teams that don’t fit into a standard 9-to-5 model.
Key Features:
- Build a custom database for time tracking, approvals, and reporting
- Drag-and-drop interface to create and modify workflows without coding
- Integration-ready with QuickBooks, Zapier, and Google Sheets for automation and data sync
Pros:
- Exceptionally flexible and scalable–ideal for businesses that outgrow traditional timesheet software
- Enables businesses to match time tracking systems to their specific needs and terminology
- More affordable than most enterprise-grade tools, especially for growing teams
Cons:
- Requires time and effort to plan and set up the ideal system
- Not ready to use out-of-the-box, plug-and-play SaaS tools
- Mobile field features are limited, making it less suitable for construction or field-heavy industries
Clockify
Clockify is a popular and user-friendly timesheet software trusted by freelancers, startups, and growing teams. As one of the few tools offering unlimited users on its free plan, it’s especially appealing for cost-conscious businesses looking to simplify time tracking without sacrificing key features.
The platform allows users to track time manually or automatically across projects, clients, or tasks. For teams working remotely or in the field, Clockify’s GPS-based mobile time tracking adds an extra layer of accountability and transparency. Its browser extension and mobile apps make it easy to track time from virtually anywhere. While Clockify lacks built-in invoicing tools, it integrates well with billing software like QuickBooks and Xero.
Key Features:
- Unlimited time tracking for unlimited users on the free plan
- Mobile apps with GPS location tracking for field teams
- Browser extension for quick tracking and reminders
Pros:
- Excellent value with a generous free tier
- Fast onboarding and simple user interface
- Ideal for freelancers, consultants, and distributed teams
Cons:
- No native invoicing—requires external tools for billing
- Editing bulk time entries can be tedious for larger teams
- Reporting tools are basic unless you upgrade to a paid plan
Harvest
Harvest is a sleek and reliable timesheet software designed with client services in mind. Perfect for agencies, consultants, and designers, it combines time tracking, invoicing, and expense management in one clean platform.
One of Harvest’s standout features is its recurring invoicing, which automates billing for ongoing projects. It also includes a visual team capacity planner, so managers can avoid overbooking employees or missing project deadlines. Harvest integrates with popular tools like Asana, Slack, and QuickBooks, making it easy to blend into your existing workflow. While it’s incredibly polished, Harvest can become expensive as teams scale, and it lacks built-in payroll processing.
Key Features:
- Recurring invoicing and billable rates by project or client
- Expense tracking with receipt uploads
- Team capacity visualizations to avoid burnout and over-allocation
Pros:
- Tailored to the needs of client-facing businesses
- Elegant, intuitive interface makes adoption easy
- Integrates smoothly with popular project and accounting tools
Cons:
- Limited scalability due to per-user pricing
- No payroll tools—requires external platforms for full HR support
- Lacks deeper project management features like task dependencies
TimeCamp
TimeCamp takes timesheet software a step further by blending traditional time tracking with automated AI-based activity logging. It’s designed to give teams more insight into how time is spent across tasks, tools, and team members. Ideal for businesses focused on productivity and accountability, TimeCamp includes modules for invoicing, attendance, and goal tracking.
With a strong set of integrations and detailed reporting capabilities, TimeCamp appeals to both solo freelancers and SMBs. Its AI functionality automatically categorizes work based on behavior and app usage, helping teams see where time is going without micromanaging. That said, its interface feels a bit dated, and customization options for invoices are somewhat limited.
Key Features:
- Automatic time tracking with AI-based activity categorization
- Productivity and efficiency reports to monitor team focus
- Invoicing and attendance tracking built into one dashboard
Pros:
- Excellent for productivity-minded professionals
- Affordable pricing across all tiers
- Built-in tools for goal tracking and team performance
Cons:
- User interface could use a refresh
- Invoicing options are limited and not highly customizable
- Free version lacks advanced features found in paid plans
Toggl Track
Toggl Track is a sleek and intuitive timesheet software that offers a seamless experience for users across various industries. It’s especially popular among freelancers, small teams, and creative agencies for its easy setup, user-friendly interface, and detailed reporting features. Toggl Track allows users to sync their time tracking with calendars, set project budgets, and receive real-time alerts if they approach their project’s financial limit. The Pomodoro timer helps boost productivity by encouraging focused work intervals.
With its visually appealing design and simple navigation, Toggl Track is a top choice for teams looking to streamline their time tracking while gaining deeper insights into where their time is spent. However, its pricing structure can become expensive as you move up to premium tiers, and its advanced project management features are somewhat limited.
Key Features:
- Calendar sync and timeline view for easy project tracking
- Budgeting tools with project cost alerts
- Pomodoro timer to encourage focus and productivity
Pros:
- Beautiful, easy-to-use interface ideal for non-technical teams
- Powerful reporting dashboards to gain insights into time spent on tasks
- Quick setup with little to no learning curve
Cons:
- Premium plans can be pricey for solo professionals or small teams
- Advanced project management features are lacking
- No payroll integration or support for invoicing directly within the app
Hubstaff
Hubstaff is a comprehensive timesheet software designed with remote and field-based teams in mind. Beyond just time tracking, it offers advanced features like activity monitoring, GPS tracking, and automatic payroll integration. These functionalities make Hubstaff ideal for businesses that need to keep a close eye on employee productivity, especially for teams working across different locations.
The ability to track time alongside employee activity levels—such as keyboard usage, mouse movement, and screenshots—gives managers an extra layer of visibility. While Hubstaff excels in supporting remote teams, its higher pricing and potential invasiveness can be a deterrent for some users.
Key Features:
- Time tracking with activity level monitoring (keystrokes, mouse movements)
- GPS location tracking with geofencing capabilities
- Automated payroll and invoicing features
Pros:
- Excellent for remote teams and field-based workers
- Payroll automation reduces administrative time
- Strong support for productivity tracking and performance evaluation
Cons:
- Learning curve for more complex features
- Premium plans can be costly compared to simpler tools
- Employee activity monitoring may feel invasive to some team members
QuickBooks Time
QuickBooks Time (formerly TSheets) is a powerful timesheet software that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for payroll and job costing, making it an excellent solution for service-based businesses that bill by the hour or shift. This tool supports GPS-enabled mobile time tracking, which is ideal for field teams that need to clock in and out on-site.
The tight integration with QuickBooks ensures that time entries automatically sync with payroll processes, reducing errors and ensuring accurate pay. However, the software can be pricey for small businesses, and its functionality is most beneficial if you’re already using QuickBooks for accounting.
Key Features:
- Time clock and scheduling for service teams
- Full payroll integration with QuickBooks
- GPS-enabled mobile app for on-the-go tracking
Pros:
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks for easy payroll management
- Ideal for shift-based industries like construction, healthcare, and delivery
- Reliable mobile app for tracking time in the field
Cons:
- Expensive for small businesses or solo entrepreneurs
- Limited customization options beyond payroll workflows
- Best suited for QuickBooks users—less effective without the integration
ClockShark
ClockShark is a timesheet software designed specifically for the construction and field services industries. Its key features—such as GPS tracking, job costing, and crew scheduling—make it particularly well-suited for mobile workforces that need to manage time and tasks on the go. ClockShark also offers offline time tracking, ensuring that field workers can still log hours even without an internet connection.
The platform is fairly industry-specific and may not be as flexible for businesses outside of construction or field services. The pricing structure can also become expensive as your user base grows.
Key Features:
- GPS tracking for job sites to monitor employee locations
- Job costing and crew scheduling features for field teams
- Offline time tracking capability for mobile workforces
Pros:
- Tailored specifically for construction and field service teams
- Responsive customer support and a helpful mobile app
- Reliable offline capabilities for workers in remote areas
Cons:
- Limited flexibility for businesses outside of construction or field services
- Fewer third-party integrations compared to other tools
- Pricing increases quickly as more users are added
Paymo
Paymo is an all-in-one project and time management software that combines timesheet functionality with task tracking, invoicing, and project planning tools. This makes Paymo an excellent choice for freelancers, agencies, and small businesses that need a holistic solution to manage both time and projects.
Paymo’s time tracking system is simple to use and integrates well with project timelines and kanban views. The software also provides invoicing features, so users can easily bill clients for the time they’ve tracked. However, Paymo’s mobile app lacks some of the features available in the desktop version, and some integrations require the use of Zapier.
Key Features:
- Task time tracking and project billing
- Built-in invoicing and expense tracking
- Project timeline and kanban views for visual project management
Pros:
- Unified system for time tracking, task management, and billing
- Modern user interface with great UX design
- Perfect for agencies and freelancers who need both project and time management
Cons:
- Limited native mobile features make it less suitable for field teams
- Not ideal for larger organizations with complex workflows
- Some integrations require third-party tools like Zapier
ClickTime
ClickTime is a robust timesheet software built for larger teams that need granular control over time and budget allocation. The platform offers detailed budgeting, resource forecasting, and customizable reports that are perfect for teams that need to manage complex projects and resources. ClickTime’s real-time dashboards help managers stay on top of team activities and ensure compliance with budget allocations.
While ClickTime is excellent for large teams, its dated user interface and higher pricing can make it less attractive to smaller organizations. The software also requires some time to configure for complex organizational needs, making it less ideal for companies that need a quick implementation.
Key Features:
- Budget and resource forecasting tools
- Timesheet approval workflows and audit trails for compliance
- Custom reports and visual dashboards for in-depth project tracking
Pros:
- Ideal for larger organizations that need detailed reporting and budget management
- Robust support for compliance and audit needs
- Great for organizations with complex, multi-project environments
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other timesheet software tools
- Dated user interface could use a refresh
- Takes time to configure for organizations with complex needs
How to Choose and Set Up the Right Timesheet Software (Step-by-Step)
Selecting the right timesheet software doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re a freelancer, an agency, or an enterprise team, following a clear setup process can help you pick a solution that actually improves time management, rather than becoming another admin task. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Define your requirements
Start by outlining the must-have features. Do you need mobile access for a remote team? Automatic billing and invoicing? Project codes and task-specific tracking? Clarifying your goals upfront narrows your options fast.
Step 2: Identify team size and complexity
A solo freelancer has very different needs from a 50-person department. Consider how many people will use the software, whether you need permissions or approval workflows, and if you’ll track time across multiple projects or clients.
Step 3: Consider integrations
Look for tools that connect with your existing payroll, HR, accounting, or project management systems. Seamless integrations save hours and reduce errors from manual entry.
Step 4: Test with a free trial
Almost every top platform offers a free trial. Use this time to explore ease of use, mobile compatibility, and reporting features. Make sure your team can navigate it without a steep learning curve.
Step 5: Customize your workflows
If the tool allows it, tailor the setup to your processes. With platforms like Knack or ClickUp, you can customize time entry forms, views, and even validations to fit your exact workflow.
Step 6: Train your team
A smooth rollout is key. Host short onboarding sessions, share help docs or videos, and assign a point person for questions. The goal is to reduce resistance and ensure consistent use.
Step 7: Monitor and optimize
Once you’re up and running, don’t set it and forget it. Regularly review time reports, look for inefficiencies, and make small adjustments to workflows, roles, and time-tracking habits as needed.
Essential Features to Look for in Timesheet Tools
When evaluating timesheet software, it’s crucial to ensure the platform includes the core functionalities that will save you time, improve accuracy, and support your specific business needs. Below are the essential features to prioritize:
- Automated Time Tracking – Sophisticated tools offer idle-detection and auto start/stop capabilities, so your team never has to remember to hit “play” or “stop.” This minimizes lost billable time and provides a more accurate picture of actual work.
- Self-Service Dashboards – Empower employees with real-time visibility into their own hours, project allocations, and PTO balances. Transparent dashboards reduce administrative questions and encourage accountability.
- Advanced Reporting – Look for visual dashboards and exportable report options (CSV, PDF, Excel) that let you slide data by project, client, or team member. Rich reporting helps you spot trends, control costs, and prove ROI to stakeholders.
- PTO Management – Integrated leave-tracking means vacation, sick days, and other time off are managed in the same system as billable hours. This avoids holiday-week confusion and ensures payroll accuracy.
- Project-Based Tracking – Ability to allocate hours to specific tasks, clients, or cost codes guarantees precise billing and deeper insights into project profitability. This is a must for agencies, consultancies, and any business that bills by the hour.
- Mobile Compatibility – Native iOS and Android apps with punch-in/punch-out features ensure field or remote employees can log time on the go, even offline. A solid mobile experience keeps everyone on the same page.
- Integrations – Seamless connections to payroll, CRM, accounting (e.g., QuickBooks), or project management platforms eliminate double-entry and ensure data flows automatically across your tech stack.
- Role-Based Access – Security and segmentation matter. Choose a timesheet software that lets you define user roles, permissions, and approval workflows so each department or manager sees only what they need.
By confirming that your chosen timesheet software includes these features, you’ll lay the foundation for a smoother implementation, stronger compliance, and more actionable data on how your team spends–and gets paid for–their time.
Why Knack is a Top Choice for Timesheet Software (2025)
While many timesheet tools offer pre-built features, Knack rises above the pack by offering unmatched flexibility without the need for coding. Here’s what makes it a standout option–especially for teams with unique workflows or industry-specific needs:
1. Built for Custom Workflows
Knack doesn’t force you into a rigid template. Instead, it conforms to your internal structure, letting you design exactly how time should be logged, categorized, approved, and reported. Whether you’re tracking hours by job code, client, or task type, Knack molds to fit.
2. No Code, Full Power
You don’t need to be a developer to build a robust timesheet system. Knack’s intuitive drag-and-drop interface allows you to design and launch apps within hours, not weeks, making it accessible for operations managers, HR professionals, or any non-technical user.
3. Flexible for Any Industry
From construction sites and schools to marketing agencies and law firms, Knack adapts to your workflow. It’s not limited by industry standards, so you can build exactly what your team needs without workarounds or compromise.
4. Rich Template Library
Knack offers a collection of pre-built timesheet and employee tracking templates that let you hit the ground running. These templates can be customized further, so you’re never starting from scratch.
5. Powerful Automations
Automate time entry reminders, approval requests, and even calculations (like overtime or project hours). Knack supports advanced business logic without requiring custom code, saving you time and minimizing human error.
6. Scalable Across Teams
Whether you’re a startup with five employees or a global enterprise with thousands, Knack can scale alongside you. You can add users, customize permissions, and adapt workflows as your organization evolves.
7. Seamless Integrations
Connect Knack with your existing tools through integrations like QuickBooks for payroll, Slack for communication, or Zapier for thousands of other platforms. This ensures smooth data flow and eliminates repetitive tasks.
8. Exceptional Support & Documentation
Knack offers in-app guidance, detailed help docs, and responsive support to help you succeed. Whether you’re stuck building a new view or setting up an automation, help is never far away.
Knack is more than just a timesheet software—it’s a flexible, scalable, and user-friendly platform that empowers teams to build exactly what they need. For businesses tired of bending to the limitations of traditional time tracking software, Knack offers a powerful alternative.
FAQs: Choosing the Best Timesheet Software
What is timesheet software?
Timesheet software is a digital tool used to record, track, and manage employee work hours. It often includes features like payroll integration, project tracking, and reporting to help businesses streamline operations.
Is free timesheet software reliable?
Yes, many free timesheet tools are reliable and offer essential features like time tracking and basic reporting. Businesses with advanced needs may eventually require a paid plan for features like integrations, invoicing, or detailed analytics.
Which timesheet tool integrates best with QuickBooks?
QuickBooks Time (formerly TSheets) offers the most seamless integration, as it’s designed by the same company. Knack is also a strong choice for businesses needing a customizable QuickBooks-connected solution.
How can timesheet software improve productivity?
By automating time tracking and reducing manual entry, timesheet software saves time and minimizes errors. It also provides visibility into how time is spent, helping managers identify inefficiencies and optimize workflows.
What industries benefit most from timesheet software?
Industries like construction, consulting, healthcare, remote services, and creative agencies benefit greatly from timesheet tools. These tools support billing accuracy, mobile access, compliance, and better team coordination.
Can I create my own timesheet software without coding?
Yes, platforms like Knack let you build a fully customized timesheet system using drag-and-drop tools–no coding required. It’s an ideal solution for teams with unique processes that standard tools can’t accommodate.