Things 3 vs TickTick: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Things 3 and TickTick 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 February 28, 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:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • 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.
TickTick
To-do list and habit tracker
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • TickTick is a to-do list and task management app with calendar
- • It combines tasks, habits, and calendar in one productivity app
| At a Glance |  Things 3 |  TickTick |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Task Management | Task Management |
Rating | 90/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | Things 3 | TickTick |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 90 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Task ManagementTime Tracking | Task ManagementCalendar |
How Things 3 and TickTick Compare
Things 3
Award-winning task manager for Apple
Paid · 90/100 score
TickTick
To-do list and habit tracker
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
TickTick has a free tier. Things 3 is paid only.
Go with: TickTick
Want the highest-rated option?
Things 3: 90/100. TickTick: 84/100.
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?
Things 3 is paid. TickTick is freemium. TickTick lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are task management tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Things 3 scores higher: 90/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Things 3
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 84
- Our pick for this comparison
TickTick
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Things 3 (90/100) is our pick. TickTick has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Things 3 or TickTick better?
Things 3 scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Things 3 is paid and TickTick is freemium.
What are Things 3 and TickTick used for?
Things 3: Award-winning task manager for Apple. TickTick: To-do list and habit tracker.
What does Things 3 cost vs TickTick?
Things 3 is a paid tool. TickTick is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.