Project management styles are as varied as the people doing them. Some folks like their inboxes as task lists, others swear by Kanban boards, and some even stick to good old pen and paper.
But when teamwork is involved, you need a project management software that works for everyone. Especially with remote work becoming the norm, a tool to track tasks, collaborate seamlessly, and keep everyone in the loop is a must-have.
As a freelancer myself, I’ve seen firsthand how the right (or wrong) software can make or break a project. That’s why I’ve spent countless hours testing and reviewing over 65 free project management tools.
Here’s the cream of the crop: 8 options that give you the power and flexibility to manage projects without spending a dime.
Top 8 Free Project Management Software for Project Managers
Tool | Best For | Standout Feature | Free Plan |
Trello | Visually managing projects | Customizable Kanban boards | Unlimited cards and members |
Asana | Teams | Flexible project management methodologies | Unlimited projects, tasks, up to 15 users |
ClickUp | Customized task views | 11 task views, 4 page views | Unlimited tasks and users |
Wrike | Spreadsheet-like features | Robust project tracking | Unlimited projects and users |
ActiveCollab | Freelancers & small agencies | Time tracking, billing, expenses | Unlimited projects, tasks, up to 3 members |
Airtable | Building custom apps | High customizability, templates | Unlimited bases, up to 5 users |
Jira | Agile software development | Built for developers & engineers | Unlimited projects on 1 site, up to 10 users |
Height | AI features | AI-powered task management | Unlimited tasks and users |
What Makes a Great Free Project Management Tool?
- Unlimited Projects: No restrictions on the number of projects you can manage.
- Hosted: Cloud-based for easy setup and access.
- Collaboration: Features for team communication and file sharing.
- Flexibility: Supports various views and project management methodologies.
- Integrations: Connects with other popular tools like email, Slack, and calendars.
Detailed Look at the Top Picks
- Trello: Your Visual Organizer
Trello’s Kanban boards are a visual treat. Customize them endlessly, add unlimited Power-Ups, and collaborate with as many team members as you need. Perfect for those who love a visual approach to project management. - Asana: Teamwork Made Easy
Asana is like a supercharged to-do list for teams. Break down projects, track progress, and collaborate seamlessly. The My Tasks view is a lifesaver for keeping your individual work organized. - ClickUp: Tailor-Made Task Views
If you crave flexibility, ClickUp’s 11 task views and 4 page views will spoil you for choice. It’s perfect for customizing your project management experience to the last detail. - Wrike: The Spreadsheet Lover’s Dream
Wrike’s spreadsheet-like interface offers familiar comfort with added project management power. Track tasks, update statuses, and generate reports effortlessly. - ActiveCollab: Client Management Done Right
Freelancers and small agencies will love ActiveCollab’s built-in time tracking, billing, and expense management. Keep your clients happy and your finances in order. - Airtable: Build Your Own Project Management App
Airtable’s customizability is unmatched. Build your dream project management app with templates, or start from scratch. The possibilities are endless. - Jira: The Agile Dev Team’s Best Friend
Purpose-built for agile software development, Jira offers powerful features for sprint tracking, issue management, and seamless integration with developer tools. - Height: Embrace the Power of AI
Height’s AI-powered features like task summarization, subtask creation, and duplicate detection bring a new level of intelligence to project management. - Choosing the Right Software
The best free project management software for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider your team size, project complexity, and desired features. Don’t hesitate to try out a few options to find the perfect fit.
Conclusion
Free project management software can be a game-changer for project managers, especially in today’s remote work environment. With so many great options available, you’re sure to find the perfect tool to streamline your projects, enhance collaboration, and achieve success without breaking the bank.
Remember, the best tool is the one that works best for you and your team. So, explore, experiment, and choose wisely. Your projects deserve it!