Google Tasks vs Things 3: Choosing the Right Productivity Tool for You

What is Google Tasks

Google Tasks, a part of the extensive Google ecosystem, is a straightforward and efficient task management tool known for its simplicity and integration with other Google services. This app is particularly effective for those who are already using Google Workspace, as it seamlessly integrates with Gmail, Google Calendar, and other Google apps. The minimalist design of Google Tasks allows users to quickly add, organize, and track tasks without the complexity of more feature-heavy tools. Its ease of use and accessibility across devices make it a practical choice for individuals looking to manage their to-dos within the familiar Google environment.

Key Features of Google Tasks

• Simple Task Management: Easily create, edit, and manage tasks.
• Google Workspace Integration: Seamlessly works with Gmail and Google Calendar.
• Subtasks: Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
• Due Dates and Reminders: Set due dates and get notifications.
• Customizable Views: Organize tasks by date or priority in different views.
• Drag-and-Drop Functionality: Reorder tasks as needed with a simple drag-and-drop.

What is Things 3

Things 3, a distinguished entrant in the productivity tools arena, is acclaimed for its elegant design and powerful organizational capabilities. It’s a task management app that combines simplicity with a rich set of features, making it a favorite among users who appreciate both aesthetics and functionality. With its intuitive interface, Things 3 allows for effortless management of to-dos, reminders, and projects, all within a visually pleasing environment. The tool stands out for its unique task categorization approach and seamless synchronization across devices, ensuring users can stay organized wherever they go.

Key Features of Things 3

• Task Management: Organize your tasks easily with deadlines, priorities, and reminders.
• Project Organization: Group tasks into projects with subtasks and sections for better management.
• Calendar Integration: See your calendar events alongside your to-dos for effective planning.
• Quick Task Entry: Add tasks quickly while working in other apps, even using Siri for hands-free entry.
• Customizable Tags: Use tags for easy categorization and searching of tasks.
• Cross-Device Syncing: Keep your tasks updated across all your Apple devices with Things Cloud.

Google Tasks vs Things 3: Features

Features	Google Tasks	Things 3
Integrations	Integrates seamlessly with Google services like Gmail and Google Calendar	Zapier, including Slack, Gmail, Trello, Notion, Google Calendar, and Google Tasks
Calendar	Not Inbuilt	No built-in calendar
Platforms	Available on web, Android, and iOS.	Available only on iOS platforms (iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac).
Task Management	Simple task management with features like creating lists, setting due dates, and making subtasks..	Offers labels, tags, and recurring tasks
Natural Language Processing	No	No
Time Blocking	No	Not Available
Analytics	No	No
Meeting Scheduler	No	Yes
Time Zones	Not specifically mentioned	No
Reminders	Yes	Yes
Customer Support	Average	Good
1:1 User Onboarding	No	No
Pricing	Free	One Time Payment at $50

Google Tasks vs Things 3: Pricing

Google Tasks Pricing

Google Tasks is free to use.

Things 3 Pricing

Things 3 requires purchasing separate applications for different Apple devices: $49.99 for macOS, $9.99 for iPhone and Apple Watch, and $19.99 for iPad, totaling around $80 for the full suite.

Google Tasks vs Things 3: Reviews

Google Tasks Review

Google Tasks is a user-friendly task management app designed for simplicity and integration within the Google ecosystem. It allows users to create tasks with due dates, notes, and subtasks, and offers features like syncing across devices, reminders based on time or location, and easy task organization through drag-and-drop. The app integrates well with other Google tools like Calendar and Gmail, enhancing productivity. While not as feature-rich as some alternatives, it’s a solid choice for those seeking a basic, free task management solution, especially for users already using Google services.

Things 3 Review

Things 3 is acclaimed for its visually appealing design and efficient personal project management tools, appealing to GTD enthusiasts with features like task filtering via tags. However, its high upfront cost for Apple devices and uncertainty about shifting to a subscription model are downsides. Despite its excellent design and one-time purchase model, the lack of collaboration tools, absence of location-based reminders, and incompatibility with non-Apple products are notable limitations. These factors could be crucial in determining whether Things 3 is the right task management tool for individual needs.

Which One Should You Pick

Consider Google Tasks if

1. You Value Simplicity: Google Tasks is suitable for those who need a straightforward task management tool, but it may be too basic for users requiring advanced features.
2. You’re Integrated into the Google Ecosystem: It works well if you already use Google’s services, though its integration capabilities are limited compared to more comprehensive tools.
3. You Prefer Free Tools: While it’s a cost-effective, free option, some users might miss the more sophisticated functionalities found in paid apps.

Consider Things 3 if

1. You Appreciate Minimalism in Design: Things 3 might be suitable if you prefer a simple interface, though some users might find it too basic for complex task management.
2. You Need Basic Task Organization: It’s good for straightforward task organization but lacks advanced features like detailed time tracking or extensive integrations.
3. You Prefer a Non-Overwhelming Approach: Things 3 is a fit if you need a task manager that’s not too complex, though it may not satisfy those needing extensive productivity tools.

For an alternative daily planning app, consider Akiflow. It provides various features that Google Tasks or Things 3 might not have, while maintaining an interface for efficient task management. See if Akiflow meets your planning needs and explore its unique features today.