16 Best Time & Attendance Software & 2 You Must Avoid

By Asim Qureshi, CEO Jibble

March 14th 2024

As a CEO of a time tracking software company my team and I are constantly looking at the best B2B software to know what’s going on in the market. That means we’re often researching about and/or playing around with their products, you know, it’s part of the job. Here, I share my findings of that research, letting you know about the best products I’ve seen. I hope it helps you make the right decision about what time and attendance software to use…

Overview

Time is a precious asset; you need dependable time and attendance software to maximize it. This software is a digital tool that helps you track and manage your time efficiently, whether for personal or professional use. It acts as a virtual clock that helps you organize and refine your time management.

Luckily, there are a lot of online time and attendance tools and apps. These tools offer features like timers for accurate tracking, detailed work reports to assess your performance, and even automated invoice generation to simplify billing.

However, not all time and attendance apps are created equal. Some are simple and focused on time tracking, ideal for those who want a basic solution. Others are comprehensive and offer additional features to improve your workflow, such as project management, collaboration, and accounting.

It’s up to you to decide whether to use a simple app with your existing tools or choose an all-in-one business management software that integrates various functionalities. To help you make the best decision, here’s a curated list of 16 of the best time and attendance software and 2 you must avoid, along with their key features to explore.

16 Best Time and Attendance Software

• Jibble
• Timesheets.com
• Clockify
• Buddy Punch
• When I Work
• OnTheClock
• Deputy
• Quickbooks Time
• Hubstaff Time
• Time Doctor
• Everhour
• Monday.com
• ClickUp
• BambooHR
• Clockshark
• Homebase

Time Tracking Software to Avoid

• InOut
• MyEDU

Bite-sized Showdown: Unraveling TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read ) with a Comparison Chart!

1. Jibble

Jibble is a revolutionary time and attendance software that offers a variety of features to make time tracking simple, precise, and convenient for both employees and managers. Here are three reasons why Jibble.io might be the perfect solution for your time and attendance needs:

• Jibble is free for unlimited users forever. You can track an unlimited amount of time and add as many team members as you need. Premium or ultimate plans are available for additional features such as leave management and project or client-based tracking.
• Jibble is accessible on any device, anywhere. Time can be tracked using web browsers, mobile apps, shared kiosks, Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Chrome extension. GPS time tracking, face recognition attendance, offline time tracking, and location restrictions are also available to ensure your team is where they need to be.
• Jibble offers comprehensive reporting and analytics. Automated timesheets and reports for payroll, employee productivity, or budget costs are easily accessible. Reports can be customized by filtering by date, team, activity, project, client, or location, and data can be exported to CSV or PDF formats.

Key features to note:

• Time and attendance on mobile
• GPS time tracking
• Attendance via facial recognition
• Tracks attendance and time offline
• Timesheets that can be edited (and changes logged)
• Detailed reports for cost and productivity analysis
• Shared kiosk with speed mode
• Many integrations with popular payroll software and chatting services
• Chrome Extension for tracking time from any device or location

Take yourself on a Walkthrough of Jibble’s time and attendance tracker.

2. Timesheets.com

Timesheets.com is a time and attendance tracking software that is easy to use and provides comprehensive reports. It is an excellent tool for tracking employee hours and payroll information. The software includes features such as overtime tracking and payroll integration, making it easy to analyze employee performance.

Overall, users have been delighted with Timesheets.com. The cost is the only downside mentioned by some users, but the features provided are well worth the price.

Key features to note:

• Grant tracking (great for non-profits)
• Budgeting
• Invoicing and payroll integration
• Reporting

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, Timesheets.com review?

3. Clockify

Clockify is a time and attendance software that is free and easy to set up and use. It provides an efficient way to track billable and nonbillable hours and offers invoicing and budget management tools. Clockify’s free plan is quite generous, allowing unlimited users, projects, and reports. It also supports billable rates, and has integrations with many popular apps.

Some users have praised its support team for their excellent service, while others have mentioned that its mobile app could be more robust than its web-based solution and have experienced mobile app glitches and software lags from time to time. Compared to other products available, Clockify offers comparable features at a lower price. However, it lacks functionalities when it comes to advanced project tracking, and there are no embedded guides.

Key features to note:

• Invoicing and budget management
• Visual overview of time allocation in a calendar
• Three kinds of user access levels: Admins, Managers, Regular users
• Integration into over 80 different web applications
• Team chat features with real-time messaging (Pro and Enterprise versions)
• GPS tracking (Pro and Enterprise versions)

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, Clockify review?

4. Buddy Punch

A cloud-based time clock and attendance software, Buddy Punch offers an intuitive interface and user-friendly tools. It can be used on any internet-connected device and improves employee accountability with GPS and webcam accountability monitoring. It has flexible punch options such as facial recognition, PIN, QR Code, and traditional username and password entry for punching in and out.

While Buddy Punch has many highlights, it has its fair share of limitations. Some issues that affect the Buddy Punch experience include difficulties in punching in and out, a redundant and time-consuming process of time card approval, and its lack of an offline mode, which may be a deal-breaker for industries that regularly have employees or operations in sites where internet connection is low or absent.

Key features to note:

• GPS tracking
• Webcam images
• Overtime monitoring
• Unlimited administrators
• Simple scheduling
• Payroll integrations

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, BuddyPunch review?

5. When I Work

When I Work is a time and attendance tracking software that offers time tracking, attendance management, and payroll functionalities. Its communication system is positively reviewed for its ability to relay shifts and schedule changes instantly, earning it a high 4.5 rating on Capterra. The time clock feature allows for instant clocking in and out and even comes with extra precautions for employees who forget to log time.

However, When I Work has some glitches that can slow down workflows and can cause frustration. The time clock and mobile apps don’t always sync with the desktop app, resulting in the loss of logged hours. A point of caution regarding inactivity: if you’re not paying attention, it’ll log you out, so be warned that you might lose valuable time and have to go back and edit everything.

Key features to note:

• Shift scheduling
• Team messaging
• Time-off requests
• Labor cost reporting

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, When I Work review?

6. OnTheClock

OnTheClock is a well-respected online time and attendance system due to its robust and accessible platform. It has a solid web dashboard and great mobile app. In addition to tracking time and attendance, OnTheClock also provides PTO tracking, employee scheduling, and project tracking.

However, OnTheClock has few updates leading to it feeling outdated. There have also been reports of less than satisfactory customer support. However, a significant advantage is its budget-friendly pricing, starting at $3/user/month without any base fee, making it quite competitive.

Key features to note:

• Unlimited users
• Geofencing
• PTO accrual
• Biometric recognition
• Payroll exports

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, OnTheClock review?

7. Deputy

Deputy is a cloud-based solution that helps organizations manage time and attendance. Its accessibility on desktop and mobile devices makes it simple for employees to clock in and out from anywhere. With automatic wage calculation, break compliance, and dynamic reporting to compare labor hours and profits, it’s a good choice for your employee management needs. And the fact that it integrates with payroll systems like Xero is a great benefit.

While a powerful software solution, Deputy does have some drawbacks. The software does not sync with Google Calendar. Additionally, the employee scheduling software is only available in English at this time.

Key features to note:

• Auto Scheduling
• Employee break tracking
• Administrative tasks
• Mobile app and web client for clocking in and out
• One-click payroll integration

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, Deputy review?

8. Quickbooks Time

QuickBooks Time, previously known as TSheets, is a cloud-based time and attendance app that enables employees to clock in and out from their job site using their mobile devices. The software aims to help businesses replace paper timesheets with precise, electronic time data, making payroll and invoicing faster and more cost-effective.

The app is often commended for its easy-to-use interface, straightforward navigation, and sleek, intuitive design. It also heavily integrates with QuickBooks Online and Online Payroll, streamlining HR tasks. However, while QuickBooks Time integrates with a variety of systems and software, some users have encountered difficulties with specific integrations or are seeking integrations outside of the Intuit family of software.

Key features to note:

• PTO tracking and time off requests
• Employee scheduling
• Employee GPS tracking
• Who’s Working Window
• Payroll & Accounting Integration
• Team shift scheduling
• Overtime Alerts

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, Quickbooks review?

9. Hubstaff Time

Hubstaff Time is a time and attendance software that provides features designed to minimize administrative tasks. It enables users to capture screenshots of all interfaces for record-keeping purposes and has dependable support staff and resources. Hubstaff Time integrates with other applications, such as Asana, and generates comprehensive reports on team activity and productivity.

Nonetheless, Hubstaff Time has limited payment integrations, which can pose challenges. Additionally, the metrics used to measure productivity are sometimes inaccurate.

Key features to note:

• Capturing of screenshots
• Comprehensive reports on team activity and productivity
• Integration with other applications
• Efficient management of payroll

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, Hubstaff Time review?

10. Time Doctor

Time Doctor is a time and attendance software tool that enables you to monitor how you and your team allocate your time to tasks and projects. It provides a range of features to enhance focus and performance, including distraction alerts, screenshots, webcam capture, website and app usage monitoring, payroll integration, and client access. Time Doctor integrates with many popular tools and platforms.

However, Time Doctor does not offer a free plan but only a limited-time free trial. After the trial period ends, you must pay a monthly fee per user to continue using the software. Time Doctor may raise privacy concerns for some users who are uncomfortable with being monitored or tracked by their managers or employers through screenshotting. Adjusting the settings or permissions may be necessary to ensure data security and compliance.

Key features to note:

• Distraction alerts
• Screenshots and webcam capture
• Website and app usage monitoring
• Client access
• Integrations with popular tools

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, Time Doctor review?

11. Everhour

Everhour is a time and attendance software that offers real-time data and reports to help businesses manage their time, budget, and resources more efficiently, as well as a Pomodoro timer to boost employee productivity. One of the software’s strengths is its seamless integration with other project management tools like Asana, Trello, and GitHub, making it easy to keep tabs on your team’s time. Everhour also has a visual planning feature that lets you keep track of your time schedules and time off and a cool invoicing feature that syncs with Quickbooks, Xero, and FreshBooks for easy client billing.

However, Everhour does have its drawbacks. The iOS app has some hiccups, and its rating of 2/5 stars reflects this. This may be due to the app’s less-than-ideal modifications and clunky interface. Additionally, no Android app is available, so only iPhone users can benefit from the software. Everhour also lacks an offline mode. Some users have also reported issues with the software’s integration with other tools and systems.

Key features to note:

• Pomodoro timer
• Estimates and invoicing
• Reporting
• Alerts
• Multiple integrations

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, Everhour review?

12. Monday.com

Monday.com is a work operating system with time tracking and attendance features as part of its human resources module. Users can track time manually or automatically using timers or webcams. Users can also generate detailed work reports to measure performance and automate invoice generation to simplify billing. While Monday.com is generally user-friendly and suitable for a wide range of businesses, it has a learning curve compared to similar software. One of its strengths is its flexibility and adaptability, but it can be overwhelming if your business doesn’t need to use all the available tools.

One downside of Monday.com is that it charges per seat per month, with a minimum of three seats required for premium plans. If you want a premium plan for just one or two people, you’ll have to pay extra for the third seat even if you don’t need it. The free plan allows for up to two seats but has limited features. Additionally, the time tracking feature is only available on the Pro plan, which costs $20 per seat per month or $16 per seat per month when billed annually. This may seem like a high price for some users who believe that the time tracking feature should be available on the Basic plan.

Key features to note:

• Integration with project management tools
• Invoicing
• Syncing with popular billing apps
• Pomodoro timer

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, Monday.com review?

13. ClickUp

A project management platform, Clickup includes time and attendance features as part of its productivity module. Users can track time using native or third-party timers or manually log hours. Users can also view detailed work reports to evaluate performance and integrate with various tools for billing and payroll.

However, ClickUp’s strength as a one-stop-shop can also be its weakness. The software has an overwhelming and cluttered user interface that can be difficult to navigate, resulting in a steep learning curve and a lengthy onboarding process.

Key features to note:

• Real-time status, reports and productivity tracking
• Task documentation
• Extensive integrations
• Time and attendance tracking across devices
• Time estimating
• Customization of timesheets

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, Clickup review?

14. BambooHR

A human resources suite with time and attendance features, BambooHR combines all the tools for managing a team, including payroll integrations, and progress reports. One of its standout features is its self-service option, allowing employees to enter their information and save HR time. Regarding time tracking, BambooHR makes it easy with simple clocking in and out, timesheet creation, and attendance and PTO monitoring.

However, BambooHR does have its limitations, such as the mobile app being less feature-rich than its desktop counterpart. While the reporting feature can provide the numbers you need, it can be inflexible and lacks the customization options many users desire. And while the training feature is helpful, it could use more customization and interactivity to make it truly effective.

Key features to note:

• Automatic timesheet creation
• PTO monitoring
• Project tracking
• Overtime calculation

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, BambooHR review?

15. Clockshark

ClockShark is a user-friendly time-tracking software that is simple to set up and can monitor job expenses. It features a direct time clock, and its GPS functionality is exceptional. The software is dependable, reasonably priced, and straightforward to learn and use. Additionally, users report good customer service.

On the other hand, some users have mentioned that the software can drain the battery and may not always be dependable. Furthermore, facial recognition scans necessitate a dedicated time tracking device, and invoicing and online client payments are only accessible in the Pro version.

Key features to note:

• Mobile time and attendance across devices
• Geofencing on job sites
• PTO management
• Finance, payroll, and CRM integrations
• Scheduling tool

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, ClockShark review?

16. Homebase

Homebase is a software designed to assist small businesses with scheduling, payroll, and human resources. Users appreciate its user-friendly mobile app, ease of use, and powerful scheduling features. Its drag-and-drop scheduling tool makes it easy to identify conflicts. Homebase also has a mission-driven organization and a friendly team.

However, Homebase does have some limitations, including limited integration capabilities and inconsistent messaging features. The free basic version of Homebase only includes a hiring tool, and pricing is based on location rather than the number of employees.

Key features to note:

• Payroll management
• Human resources tools
• User-friendly mobile app
• Drag-and-drop scheduling tool

Why not check out our full, and of course completely honest, Homebase review?

Time Tracking Software to Avoid

1. InOut

InOut is an attendance software by Novaders LLP. And while you can try InOut for two users for free, we do not recommend it. They are no longer on the Google App Store,   and on the Apple store they are listed as free when they have in-app costs. While they have an extensive set of plan levels for their India customers, the global features and prices only have one level.

2. MyEDU

MyEDU is a nice-looking time and attendance app. The app was designed to exchange crucial information such as attendance, homework, study syllabus, assessment results, and real-time school bus or van location updates. However, reviewers on the Google App Store report problems and have received no responses from MyEDU for over a year now.

TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read) Best Software Comparison Chart