GitHub Issues vs Shortcut: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between GitHub Issues and Shortcut comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
GitHub Issues
Project planning and issue tracking built for developers, integrated directly into GitHub.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 8.3/10)
- • You need task management features specifically
- • Integrated issue tracking and project planning within GitHub.
- • Features sub-issues, custom fields, and flexible project views (tables, boards, roadmaps).
Shortcut
Project management for software teams
Best for you if:
- • You need project tracking features specifically
- • Shortcut is a project management tool for software development teams
- • It combines planning, tracking, and documentation in one platform
| At a Glance |  GitHub Issues | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Task Management | Project Tracking |
Rating | 84/100 | 83/100 |
| Feature | GitHub Issues | Shortcut |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 83 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Task ManagementAgile & Scrum | Project TrackingAgile & Scrum |
Understanding the Differences
Both GitHub Issues and Shortcut solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.GitHub Issues positions itself as "project planning and issue tracking built for developers, integrated directly into github." while Shortcutfocuses on "project management for software teams". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose GitHub Issues
GitHub Issues makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 84/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Shortcut
Shortcut is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, GitHub Issues lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: GitHub Issues
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. GitHub Issues handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: GitHub Issues
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: GitHub Issues
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with GitHub Issues, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated GitHub Issues higher (84/100). But the community has upvoted Shortcut more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What GitHub Issues Does Better
- Higher overall score (84/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Shortcut If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with GitHub Issues (84/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. GitHub Issues scores higher in our analysis, but Shortcut might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GitHub Issues or Shortcut better?
Based on our analysis, GitHub Issues scores higher with 84/100. GitHub Issues isfreemium while Shortcut is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from GitHub Issues to Shortcut easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do GitHub Issues and Shortcut offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. GitHub Issues is freemium with a free tier.Shortcut is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.