Sorted 3 vs Ellie Planner: Comprehensive 2024 Comparison

What is Sorted 3

Sorted 3 is a task management application known for its efficient scheduling and time management capabilities. It allows users to organize tasks and sub-tasks, set reminders, and categorize them for better management. A notable feature is its time-blocking technique, which lets users allocate specific time slots for tasks, aiding in daily planning. The app also prioritizes tasks based on urgency and importance. While Sorted 3 excels in task organization and planning, it may not offer the depth required for more complex project management. It’s available on iOS and macOS, with pricing for extra features.

Key Features of Sorted 3

• Auto-Schedule: Automatically schedules tasks based on priorities and deadlines, helping users manage their time efficiently.
• Time Blocking: Allows for allocating specific time slots to tasks, aiding in maintaining focus and productivity.
• Hyper Scheduling: Combines calendar events and tasks in one view, offering a comprehensive overview of the day’s agenda.
• Task Management: Includes features for organizing tasks, setting reminders, and creating sub-tasks, making it versatile for various needs.
• Magic Select: Facilitates easy selection and manipulation of multiple tasks at once, enhancing user experience in task management.
• Customizable Views: Offers different views like list, day, and 3-day views, catering to personal preferences in organizing and viewing tasks.

What is Ellie Planner

Ellie Planner is a daily planning application designed to help users organize their week through features like calendar integration, task management, and time-blocking techniques. It includes a brain dump area for capturing thoughts and tasks, and it supports integrations with major calendars and productivity apps such as Google Calendar, Outlook, and Todoist. Aimed at simplifying planning processes, Ellie Planner offers both a free plan and a premium subscription.

Key Features of Ellie Planner

• Calendar Integration: Ellie Planner syncs with major calendar services like Google Calendar and Outlook, allowing users to see their appointments and tasks in one unified view. This feature ensures that all commitments are aligned and easily accessible.
• Task Management: Users can create, assign, and track tasks within the planner. This helps in maintaining clarity on deliverables and deadlines, enhancing productivity and accountability.
• Time Blocking: The planner supports time-blocking techniques, encouraging users to allocate specific blocks of time for tasks, which helps in managing daily workloads more efficiently and reducing the likelihood of overcommitment.
• Customizable Views: Ellie Planner offers customizable views, enabling users to tailor the interface according to their personal productivity styles. This can include adjusting the layout of tasks, events, and notes to best suit one’s workflow.
• Brain Dump Feature: A dedicated space for “brain dumping” allows users to jot down ideas and tasks as they come, which can later be organized into actionable items. This feature helps in capturing all thoughts without disrupting workflow.
• Mobile Accessibility: The planner is accessible via a mobile app, providing the flexibility to manage schedules and tasks on the go. This ensures that users can stay updated with their plans irrespective of their location.

Sorted 3 vs Ellie Planner: Features

Sorted 3 vs Ellie Planner: Pricing

Sorted 3 Pricing

Sorted 3 offers two pricing tiers:

(i) Free Version: Provides access to core features of the app.

(ii) Pro Version: Available for iOS at $14.99 and for macOS at $24.99

Ellie Planner Pricing

Ellie Planner offers two main pricing options:

(i) Free Plan: Includes unlimited task creation, accessible via iOS and Web apps, and a feature called “Braindump”.

(ii) Ellie Pro Plan: Available for $9.99 per month or a one-time purchase of $299.99. It includes all the features of the free plan plus timeboxing, integration with Google and Apple Calendars, unlimited labels & subtasks, recurring tasks, due dates, and more.

Sorted 3 vs Ellie Planner: Reviews

Sorted 3 Review

Sorted 3 is a task management app that excels in auto-scheduling, time-blocking, and prioritizing tasks, making it efficient for daily planning. It integrates tasks, calendar events, and notes into a unified timeline, which is helpful for managing a busy schedule. However, it may fall short for users looking for more advanced project management features or those who prefer extensive integrations with third-party apps. Available on iOS and macOS, Sorted 3’s interface is user-friendly but might not cater to all user preferences in terms of customization.

Ellie Planner Review

Ellie Planner is praised for its simplicity and effectiveness in daily planning, offering features like calendar and task views, brain dump for capturing thoughts, and integration with other apps like Google Calendar and Todoist. Users appreciate its clean interface and focus on time-blocking techniques to improve productivity. However, some drawbacks include its higher price point compared to alternatives like Todoist, and a relatively lighter set of features which may not suit those seeking more robust functionality. The app is primarily developed by a solo developer, which adds a personal touch but might affect the pace of feature updates and support. Overall, Ellie Planner is a commendable tool for those seeking a straightforward daily planner with essential features.

Which One Should You Pick

Consider Sorted 3 if

1. You Need Basic Task Management: If you’re looking for a simple tool to manage daily tasks with features like auto-scheduling and time-blocking, Sorted 3 could be suitable. However, it may not be ideal for complex project management.
2. You Prefer an Integrated Calendar View: Sorted 3 is good for those who want to view tasks and calendar events together, though its calendar functionalities are basic compared to specialized calendar apps.
3. You Use iOS or macOS: Sorted 3 works well for Apple device users, offering synchronization between iOS and macOS, but lacks support for other platforms like Android or Windows.

Consider Ellie Planner if

1. You Appreciate Simplicity in Planning: Ellie Planner could be a good match if you prefer a straightforward, no-frills daily planner with essential features like calendar views and task lists. It might lack the depth of features found in more comprehensive tools.
2. You Use Basic Integration: If you need basic integrations with tools like Google Calendar or Todoist, Ellie Planner offers this functionality, though its integration options are not as extensive as some other planners.
3. You Enjoy Personalized Support: Since Ellie Planner is developed by a solo developer, you might appreciate the personal touch in customer support, although this could also mean slower updates and enhancements compared to bigger competitors.

Best Sorted 3 and Ellie Planner Alternative

Akiflow: Akiflow is a time management app offering time blocking, task scheduling, and integrations with various tools. It focuses on productivity and organization through a unified task and appointment interface.

Akiflow Price: $19 per month, paid annually