Freelancers thrive on flexibility, but managing time efficiently is crucial for maintaining productivity and ensuring accurate client billing. Unlike traditional office settings, where structured schedules are in place, freelancers must track their work hours independently. This is where time tracking apps come in—helping freelancers monitor billable hours, analyze productivity patterns, and streamline invoicing.
With the right time tracking tool, freelancers can avoid undercharging for their work, stay organized, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Whether you’re a designer, writer, developer, or consultant, selecting the best time tracking app tailored to your needs can significantly impact your efficiency and earnings.
We explore the 10 best time tracking apps for freelancers, examining their features, compatibility, time tracking methods, and customer support to help you find the perfect fit.
10 Best Time Tracking Apps for Freelancers
1. Corexta
Corexta is an all-in-one project management and time tracking tool designed to help freelancers efficiently track their billable hours, manage tasks, and streamline productivity. With an intuitive interface and automation features, Corexta simplifies time management, making it an excellent choice for freelancers handling multiple clients and projects.
Time Tracking Method
Corexta offers both manual and automated time tracking. Users can start and stop a timer while working or enter logged hours manually for specific tasks. It also provides background tracking, detecting activity to ensure accurate time logs.
Compatibility
Desktop: Windows, macOS
Mobile: iOS, Android
Web-Based: Accessible from any browser
Customer Support
Corexta provides 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, and a knowledge base with guides and tutorials.
Quick Features Overview
✔️ Manual and automated time tracking
✔️ Task and project management integration
✔️ Real-time activity tracking
✔️ Invoice generation and billing tools
✔️ Reports and analytics for productivity insights
✔️ Cross-platform compatibility
In-Depth Look at Corexta’s Features
Automated Time Tracking – Corexta’s intelligent tracking feature detects work activity and logs time without manual input, reducing administrative hassle for freelancers.
Project and Task Organization – Users can categorize time entries under specific projects and tasks, ensuring clear time allocation for different clients.
Invoice Integration – Corexta enables freelancers to generate invoices directly from tracked hours, ensuring accurate billing and faster payments.
Advanced Analytics & Reports – Gain insights into work patterns with detailed reports that help freelancers optimize their time management.
Collaboration Tools – For freelancers working in teams, Corexta offers seamless collaboration features to share progress with clients or colleagues.
Corexta pricing
- Lifetime Free plan with limited reports
Small Business: $9.99 per month
Medium Business: $19.99 per month
Enterprise: $29 per month
With its robust features and freelancer-friendly design, Corexta stands out as a top time tracking solution for independent professionals looking to enhance productivity and accountability.
2. Toggl Track
Overview of the App
Toggl Track is a user-friendly time tracking app designed for freelancers who need a simple yet powerful tool to monitor billable hours. With a clean interface and flexible tracking options, it helps freelancers focus on their work while ensuring accurate time logs for invoicing and productivity analysis.
Time Tracking Method
Toggl Track offers one-click manual time tracking, as well as automated background tracking that detects work activities. Users can also add time entries manually if they forget to start the timer.
Compatibility
Desktop: Windows, macOS
Mobile: iOS, Android
Web-Based: Available via any browser
Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox
Customer Support
Toggl Track provides customer support via email and a self-help knowledge base, with priority support available for paid users.
Quick Features Overview
✔️ One-click timer for easy tracking
✔️ Manual and automated tracking options
✔️ Detailed time reports and analytics
✔️ Project and client categorization
✔️ Cross-device syncing
✔️ Invoice-ready reports
In-Depth Look at Toggl Track’s Features
Seamless Time Tracking – Users can start, stop, and edit time entries with a single click, making it ideal for freelancers who switch between tasks frequently.
Offline Mode – Toggl Track continues recording time even when offline, syncing data once the internet connection is restored.
Billable vs. Non-Billable Hours – Freelancers can differentiate between paid and unpaid work to generate accurate invoices.
Detailed Productivity Reports – Customizable reports allow users to analyze their work patterns and optimize time usage.
Integrations – Toggl Track connects with tools like Asana, Trello, and Slack for a seamless workflow.
Pricing
Toggl Track offers free and paid plans (Starter, Premium and Enterprise). Free plan is recommended for freelancers, offering automatic time tracking and reporting.
With its intuitive design and freelancer-focused features, Toggl Track is an excellent choice for professionals who need a hassle-free way to monitor their time.
3. RescueTime
Overview of the App
RescueTime is a productivity-focused time tracking tool that automatically tracks digital activities to provide deep insights into work habits. Unlike manual time trackers, RescueTime runs in the background and categorizes work sessions, helping freelancers identify distractions and improve efficiency.
Time Tracking Method
RescueTime uses automatic time tracking, monitoring app and website usage to determine how time is spent throughout the day. Users can also set productivity goals and receive reports on work patterns.
Compatibility
Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux
Mobile: iOS, Android
Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox
Customer Support
RescueTime offers email support and an extensive knowledge base, with priority support for premium users.
Quick Features Overview
✔️ Fully automated time tracking
✔️ Productivity analysis and focus reports
✔️ Distraction management tools
✔️ Customizable goals and alerts
✔️ Offline tracking capability
✔️ Detailed weekly reports
In-Depth Look at RescueTime’s Features
Automated Time Logging – The app tracks work activities in the background, eliminating the need for manual input.
Productivity Score – RescueTime categorizes activities into productive and unproductive tasks, helping freelancers stay focused.
Distraction Blocking – Users can set focus sessions to block distracting websites and apps.
Goal Setting & Alerts – Freelancers can establish daily goals (e.g., work for 4 hours uninterrupted) and receive notifications on progress.
Detailed Reports – Weekly and monthly insights provide a clear overview of time usage patterns.
Pricing
RescueTime offers a free (RescueTime Lite) and a premium plan (RescueTime Premium). It charges $78 per year for the RescueTime Premium plan (or $12/month). If you wish to export your reports, you need a premium plan.
With its automatic tracking and productivity insights, RescueTime is perfect for freelancers looking to minimize distractions and maximize efficiency.
4. Traqq
Overview of the App
Traqq is a time tracking app that focuses on productivity monitoring while ensuring freelancer privacy. It offers automatic time tracking, screenshot recording, and detailed reporting to help freelancers manage their time effectively without invasive monitoring.
Time Tracking Method
Traqq provides automated time tracking that records activity in the background. It also takes blurred screenshots at random intervals to document work progress without compromising privacy.
Compatibility
Desktop: Windows, macOS
Web-Based: Accessible via browser
Customer Support
Traqq offers live chat and email support, along with a help center featuring guides and FAQs.
Quick Features Overview
✔️ Automated background tracking
✔️ Privacy-focused screenshot recording
✔️ Productivity and activity reports
✔️ Manual time entry option
✔️ Easy invoice generation
✔️ Offline tracking
In-Depth Look at Traqq’s Features
Ethical Time Tracking – Unlike other monitoring tools, Traqq blurs screenshots to protect user privacy while ensuring accountability.
Activity Level Monitoring – It analyzes keyboard and mouse activity to determine productivity levels.
Manual Time Adjustments – Freelancers can add or edit logged hours when needed.
Invoice Preparation – Tracked time can be converted into invoices for easy billing.
Offline Mode – Work time is recorded even without an internet connection and syncs once online.
Pricing
Traqq offers three plans: Premium Starter, Premium Teams ($7/month), and Enterprise (custom plan). The Premium Starter plan is free and marketed towards freelancers and small teams.
With its privacy-focused tracking and productivity analytics, Traqq is ideal for freelancers who want transparency without intrusive monitoring.
5. TimeCamp
Overview of the App
TimeCamp is a versatile time tracking tool designed for freelancers who need automatic time tracking, invoicing, and productivity insights. It provides detailed reports and integrates with popular project management tools, making it an excellent choice for freelancers managing multiple clients.
Time Tracking Method
TimeCamp offers both automatic and manual time tracking. Its automatic tracker detects activity and assigns time to specific projects, while freelancers can also manually enter time logs when needed.
Compatibility
Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux
Mobile: iOS, Android
Web-Based: Available via any browser
Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox
Customer Support
TimeCamp provides customer support via email, live chat, and an extensive knowledge base. Paid users get priority support.
Quick Features Overview
✔️ Automatic and manual time tracking
✔️ Productivity and time usage reports
✔️ One-click invoicing
✔️ Team collaboration tools
✔️ Integration with project management apps
✔️ Offline time tracking
In-Depth Look at TimeCamp’s Features
Automatic Activity Tracking – TimeCamp’s background tracking assigns work sessions to specific tasks, reducing the need for manual logging.
Billing & Invoicing – Freelancers can generate invoices directly from tracked hours, streamlining the payment process.
Productivity Reports – TimeCamp provides detailed insights into work habits, helping freelancers optimize their time.
Budgeting & Expense Tracking – Freelancers can monitor project budgets to prevent overspending.
Seamless Integrations – It connects with tools like Trello, Asana, Slack, and QuickBooks for smooth workflow management.
Pricing
The tool offers a free plan with limited features. TimeCamp’s paid plans range from $2.99/month (Starter) to $11.99/month (Enterprise) billed annually.
With its automated tracking and invoicing capabilities, TimeCamp is an excellent choice for freelancers who need an all-in-one time management solution.
6. Clockify
Overview of the App
Clockify is a free time tracking app perfect for freelancers who need unlimited time tracking and reporting. It provides a simple interface and powerful features without subscription fees, making it a budget-friendly option for independent professionals.
Time Tracking Method
Clockify supports manual and automatic time tracking. Users can start a timer, log time manually, or use the auto-tracking mode to detect activity.
Compatibility
Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux
Mobile: iOS, Android
Web-Based: Accessible from any browser
Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox
Customer Support
Clockify offers email support and a comprehensive knowledge base. Premium users can access priority support.
Quick Features Overview
✔️ Unlimited time tracking (free plan)
✔️ Manual and automatic time tracking options
✔️ Detailed time reports and analytics
✔️ Invoice generation
✔️ Task and project categorization
✔️ Cross-platform accessibility
In-Depth Look at Clockify’s Features
Unlimited Free Time Tracking – Unlike other apps with limited free plans, Clockify provides unlimited tracking for free.
Project & Task Categorization – Users can assign time logs to different clients and projects for better organization.
Customizable Reports – Freelancers can generate detailed reports to analyze time usage and improve productivity.
Team Collaboration – Freelancers working with clients or subcontractors can use team tracking features.
Invoice-Ready Timesheets – Convert tracked hours into invoices for quick billing.
Pricing
Clockify has a free plan, and five premium ones. The premium plans range from $3.99/month (Basic) to $12.99/month (Cake.com Bundle), billed annually.
With its free unlimited tracking and strong reporting tools, Clockify is one of the best budget-friendly options for freelancers.
7. Timely
Overview of the App
Timely is an AI-powered time tracking app that automatically logs time spent on different activities. It’s ideal for freelancers who want accurate time tracking without the hassle of manual entries.
Time Tracking Method
Timely uses automatic time tracking powered by AI to record work activities and categorize time logs. Users can review and approve tracked time before submitting it.
Compatibility
Desktop: Windows, macOS
Mobile: iOS, Android
Web-Based: Available via browser
Customer Support
Timely offers email and live chat support, along with an online help center.
Quick Features Overview
✔️ AI-powered automatic time tracking
✔️ Project and task management integration
✔️ Real-time time tracking suggestions
✔️ Secure data storage and privacy protection
✔️ Billable and non-billable hour tracking
✔️ Smart reporting and insights
In-Depth Look at Timely’s Features
AI-Driven Tracking – Timely automatically records work sessions and assigns them to relevant tasks, reducing the need for manual input.
Intelligent Time Categorization – The app learns user behavior over time and improves time log accuracy.
Project & Budget Management – Freelancers can set project budgets and monitor progress in real-time.
Data Privacy & Security – Unlike invasive tracking tools, Timely does not take screenshots or track keystrokes.
Automated Reports & Insights – Freelancers receive smart recommendations on how to optimize their work hours.
Pricing
Timely offers three premium plans. The basic one (Starter) is designed for solopreneurs and microbusinesses and costs $9/month, billed annually.
With its AI-powered tracking and privacy-focused approach, Timely is perfect for freelancers who want effortless and accurate time tracking.
8. Harvest
Overview of the App
Harvest is a well-rounded time tracking app that combines time logging, expense tracking, and invoicing in one platform. It’s an excellent choice for freelancers who need a seamless way to track billable hours and get paid efficiently.
Time Tracking Method
Harvest offers manual and timer-based tracking. Users can start and stop a timer while working or enter time manually for past tasks.
Compatibility
Desktop: Windows, macOS
Mobile: iOS, Android
Web-Based: Available via any browser
Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox
Integrations: Asana, Trello, QuickBooks, Slack, and more
Customer Support
Harvest provides email support, live chat, and an extensive knowledge base. Premium users get priority customer service.
Quick Features Overview
✔️ One-click time tracking
✔️ Expense and invoice management
✔️ Team collaboration tools
✔️ Integrations with popular project management apps
✔️ Custom reports for project insights
In-Depth Look at Harvest’s Features
Easy Time & Expense Tracking – Users can log billable and non-billable hours and track project expenses with ease.
Automated Invoicing – Harvest converts tracked hours into professional invoices, allowing freelancers to get paid faster.
Project Budgeting & Reporting – Freelancers can track project progress, ensuring they stay within budget.
Multi-Device Access – Track time from any device, ensuring flexibility for freelancers on the go.
Seamless Integrations – Harvest integrates with over 50 apps, streamlining workflow and project management.
Pricing
Harvest offers two plans: free (Harvest) and premium (Harvest Premium). The free one is best suited for freelancers and solopreneurs (1 seat, 2 projects), while Harvest Pro costs $10.80 per seat/month, billed annually.
With robust invoicing and reporting features, Harvest is perfect for freelancers who need an all-in-one time tracking and payment solution.
9. Hubstaff
Overview of the App
Hubstaff is a feature-rich time tracking and productivity monitoring tool ideal for freelancers who work remotely and need detailed work activity tracking. It includes screenshots, GPS tracking, and team monitoring features.
Time Tracking Method
Hubstaff provides manual and automatic tracking with activity monitoring. It records keystrokes, mouse movements, and optional screenshots to track productivity.
Compatibility
Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux
Mobile: iOS, Android
Web-Based: Accessible via browser
Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox
Integrations: Trello, Asana, QuickBooks, Slack, and more
Customer Support
Hubstaff offers live chat, email support, and an extensive help center for troubleshooting and guidance.
Quick Features Overview
✔️ Automatic time tracking with activity monitoring
✔️ Screenshots and productivity tracking
✔️ GPS tracking for remote work verification
✔️ Payroll and invoice generation
✔️ Custom productivity reports
In-Depth Look at Hubstaff’s Features
Activity Monitoring & Screenshots – Hubstaff tracks active work time through mouse and keyboard usage, with optional screenshots for verification.
Automated Payroll & Invoicing – Freelancers can set billable rates and automate invoicing based on logged hours.
GPS Tracking – Ideal for freelancers who work on-site, as it logs location-based work time.
Productivity Insights – Hubstaff provides reports on work efficiency, helping freelancers optimize their workflow.
Seamless Team Collaboration – Freelancers working with clients or subcontractors can use Hubstaff for team tracking and payments.
Pricing
Hubstaff has 4 premium plans, ranging from $4.99 per seat/month (Starter) to $25 per seat/month (Enterprise). Freelancers should use the two low-cost plans (Starter and Grow), which require a minimum of 2 seats.
With its detailed activity tracking and invoicing capabilities, Hubstaff is ideal for freelancers who need transparency and accountability in their time logs.
10. TrackingTime
Overview of the App
TrackingTime is a simple yet effective time tracking app designed for freelancers who want easy project tracking and real-time collaboration. It helps track billable hours and productivity without the complexity of monitoring features.
Time Tracking Method
TrackingTime supports manual and timer-based tracking. Users can start a timer when working on tasks or manually enter time for past work sessions.
Compatibility
Desktop: Windows, macOS
Mobile: iOS, Android
Web-Based: Available through any browser
Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox
Integrations: Asana, Trello, Slack, Google Calendar, and more
Customer Support
TrackingTime offers email support and a knowledge base with guides and tutorials for users.
Quick Features Overview
✔️ Simple time tracking for tasks and projects
✔️ Team collaboration features
✔️ Detailed work reports and analytics
✔️ Integration with productivity tools
✔️ Billable hour tracking for invoicing
In-Depth Look at TrackingTime’s Features
Task-Based Time Tracking – Freelancers can track time per project, client, or individual task.
Project and Team Collaboration – Offers shared projects and real-time team tracking for freelancers working with teams.
Automatic Reports – Users can generate timesheets and export them for invoicing or analysis.
Calendar Integration – Syncs with Google Calendar for easy scheduling and task management.
Customizable Workspaces – Freelancers can set up personal dashboards tailored to their work habits.
Pricing
TrackingTime has one free and three premium plans (ranging from $8/month to $10/month billed annually). The Freelancer plan offers project management, time tracking and invoicing for a freelancer business (more on that below).
With its intuitive interface and seamless integrations, TrackingTime is great for freelancers who want simple, no-frills time tracking.
Final Thoughts on the Best Time Tracking Apps for Freelancers
Choosing the right time tracking app depends on your workflow preferences and specific needs. While most tools offer solid tracking capabilities, the real differences come down to manual vs. automated tracking, employee monitoring features (like screenshots), mobile and web accessibility, and integration options.
This guide has hopefully given you a clearer picture of the best time tracking apps for freelancers, along with their strengths and limitations.
Personally, I prefer a simple, hassle-free tool that tracks time seamlessly in the background. I don’t need constant notifications, Pomodoro timers, or idle time reminders disrupting my focus. I just want an app that does its job without getting in my way.
For that reason, Corexta is my go-to choice. It offers effortless time tracking without unnecessary distractions. Plus, with a free trial available, you can test it out and see if it fits into your workflow—no credit card required.
If you’re looking for a tool that works smoothly and intuitively, give Corexta a try. It might just be the game-changer you need.
