Things 3 vs iA Writer: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Things 3 and iA Writer 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated May 6, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Things 3
Award-winning task manager for Apple
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need task management features specifically
- • GTD-based task manager for Apple ecosystem with elegant design and keyboard shortcuts.
- • Features projects, areas, tags, and seamless iCloud sync across Mac, iPhone, and iPad.
iA Writer
The benchmark Markdown writing app designed for focused, distraction-free writing.
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need focus & pomodoro features specifically
- • Distraction-free Markdown writing environment with Focus Mode.
- • Advanced editor tools like Syntax Highlight and Style Check for improving writing quality.
| At a Glance |  Things 3 |  iA Writer |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Task Management | Focus & Pomodoro |
Rating | — | — |
| Feature | Things 3 | iA Writer |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Task ManagementTime Tracking | Focus & PomodoroWriting Apps |
How Things 3 and iA Writer Compare
Things 3
Award-winning task manager for Apple
Paid
iA Writer
The benchmark Markdown writing app designed for focused, distraction-free writing.
Paid
Things 3 is a task management tool. iA Writer is in focus & pomodoro.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Things 3
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Things 3
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Things 3
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Things 3 is a task management tool. iA Writer is in focus & pomodoro. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Things 3
- 0
- Our pick for this comparison
iA Writer
- Better fit for focus & pomodoro
The Bottom Line
Things 3 is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Things 3 or iA Writer better?
Things 3 is rated high in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Things 3 and iA Writer used for?
Things 3: Award-winning task manager for Apple. iA Writer: The benchmark Markdown writing app designed for focused, distraction-free writing..
What does Things 3 cost vs iA Writer?
Things 3 is a paid tool. iA Writer is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.