OpenProject vs ClickUp: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between OpenProject and ClickUp 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.
Bottom line: ClickUp is our overall pick for project management workflows. Pick OpenProject if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
OpenProject
Powerful open-source software for classic, agile, or hybrid project management in a secure environment.
Best for you if:
- • Open-source project management for classic, agile, or hybrid approaches.
- • Offers strong data sovereignty and security with on-premises and cloud options.
ClickUp
Unify tasks, docs, chat, and goals in one workspace
Best for you if:
- • All-in-one productivity platform combining project management, docs, chat, time tracking, and AI in a single workspace
- • Free tier with unlimited tasks; Unlimited plan at $7/user/month; Business at $12/user/month (annual billing)
| At a Glance |  OpenProject |  ClickUp |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Project Management | Project Management |
Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.5/5 |
Choose OpenProject or ClickUp?
Choose OpenProject if
Powerful open-source software for classic, agile, or hybrid project management in a secure environment.
- Open-source with transparent code and community support
- Offers on-premises deployment for complete data control and sovereignty
- Supports classic, agile, and hybrid project management methodologies
Choose ClickUp if
Unify tasks, docs, chat, and goals in one workspace
- Replaces multiple tools (Asana, Trello, Notion, Toggl) with one platform
- Generous free tier with unlimited tasks and members at no cost
- Highly customizable with custom fields, statuses, views, and automations
| Feature | OpenProject | ClickUp |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.3/5 215 reviews | ★4.5/5 12,000 reviews |
| Categories | Project ManagementTask Management | Project ManagementProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
OpenProject
Powerful open-source software for classic, agile, or hybrid project management in a secure environment.
Strengths
- +Open-source with transparent code and community support
- +Offers on-premises deployment for complete data control and sovereignty
- +Supports classic, agile, and hybrid project management methodologies
- +Comprehensive features for project planning, execution, and portfolio management
- +High security standards including HTTPS, 2FA, and session runtime definitions
Weaknesses
- -Enterprise on-premises version requires Linux or Mac experience for installation
- -Some advanced features like targeted sharing of project lists are Enterprise add-ons
- -The breadth of features might have a learning curve for new users
Key features
ClickUp
Unify tasks, docs, chat, and goals in one workspace
Strengths
- +Replaces multiple tools (Asana, Trello, Notion, Toggl) with one platform
- +Generous free tier with unlimited tasks and members at no cost
- +Highly customizable with custom fields, statuses, views, and automations
- +Competitive pricing at $7-12/user/month vs. $10-25 for comparable tools
- +Rapid feature development with frequent product updates
Weaknesses
- -Feature density creates a steep learning curve for new users
- -Performance can lag in large workspaces with thousands of tasks
- -Mobile app is functional but less polished than the desktop experience
- -Frequent UI changes and feature additions can disrupt established workflows
- -AI features (Brain) require a separate add-on starting at $9/user/month
Key features
Pricing: OpenProject vs ClickUp
| Plan | OpenProject | ClickUp |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Community | Free Free Forever |
| Tier 2 | $5.95 per user per month Basic | $7 /member/month Unlimited |
| Tier 3 | $10.95 per user per month Professional | $12 /member/month Business |
| Tier 4 | $15.95 per user per month Premium | Custom Enterprise |
| Tier 5 | On request Corporate | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on OpenProject pricing and ClickUp pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: OpenProject
Want the highest-rated option?
OpenProject: 4.3/5 (215 reviews). ClickUp: 4.5/5 (12,000 reviews).
Go with: ClickUp
Value user reviews?
OpenProject: 215 reviews (4.3/5). ClickUp: 12,000 reviews (4.5/5).
Go with: ClickUp
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are project management tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
ClickUp is rated higher: 4.5/5 vs 4.3/5.
Key Takeaways
ClickUp
- Higher user rating: 4.5/5 vs 4.3/5
- Larger review base (12,000 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
OpenProject
- Choose if you want powerful open-source software for classic, agile, or hybrid project management in a secure environment
The Bottom Line
ClickUp is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenProject or ClickUp better?
ClickUp is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are OpenProject and ClickUp used for?
OpenProject: Powerful open-source software for classic, agile, or hybrid project management in a secure environment.. ClickUp: Unify tasks, docs, chat, and goals in one workspace.
What does OpenProject cost vs ClickUp?
OpenProject is freemium (free tier + paid plans). ClickUp is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.