renCal
What renCal is
renCal is a free, open-source desktop calendar for hackers on Linux, macOS, and Windows. It syncs both ways with Google Calendar, iCloud Calendar, Outlook Calendar, and other CalDAV servers, with additional providers available as plugins. Calendars are stored as directories and events as standard .ics files, by default in ~/caldir/, allowing agents and scripts to work with them without an API. Natural-language entry lets users type events such as lunch tomorrow or recurring team meetings. The keyboard-first interface uses Vim-style navigation and a command palette. renCal works offline and syncs changes after reconnection. It supports video meetings, community themes, and custom CSS. The Omarchy bar widget shows upcoming events, highlights the next meeting, and can open events or join calls. Linux downloads include deb, rpm, and AppImage packages; macOS offers an Apple Silicon dmg installer. Reminder behavior varies: some Linux packages install a background service, while AppImage and macOS require renCal to keep running.
Who it suits
renCal suits users who prefer keyboard-driven, open-source desktop calendars and local .ics files. It also fits people working offline or integrating calendars with scripts and agents.
What it does well
- Free and open-source with no subscriptions
- Two-way syncs with major calendar and CalDAV providers
- Stores events as standard local .ics files
- Supports offline work and later synchronization
- Offers natural-language event entry
What to know first
- No mobile apps are provided
- AppImage and macOS need renCal running for reminders
- Some provider support depends on plugins
- Support uses public GitHub issues
Plans
| Plan | Billed and limits | Price |
|---|---|---|
| renCal | No subscriptions · free and open-source | Free |
As rencal.org lists them, read 12 Oct 2026. The maker's own page has the final word.
Verdict
renCal combines local file storage, broad calendar synchronization, keyboard controls, and offline operation at no cost. Reminder behavior depends on the package, and there is no mobile application.
Facts from renCal's own pages
- Agent access
- Because events are local .ics files, agents and scripts can work with the calendar without an API. · rencal.org, 12 Oct 2026
- Calendar providers
- It supports Google Calendar, iCloud Calendar, Outlook Calendar, and other CalDAV servers, with more providers available as plugins. · rencal.org, 12 Oct 2026
- Calendar sync
- two_way · rencal.org, 21 Sept 2026
- Event entry
- Users can type events in natural language, including examples such as “lunch with Sarah tomorrow at 1” and “team sync every Monday”. · rencal.org, 12 Oct 2026
- Free plan
- Yes · rencal.org, 21 Sept 2026
- Keyboard controls
- The product describes itself as keyboard-first, with Vim-style navigation and a command palette. · rencal.org, 12 Oct 2026
- Linux packages
- Linux downloads include deb, rpm, and AppImage packages, and the site gives an AUR installation command for Arch and Omarchy. · rencal.org, 12 Oct 2026
- Local data
- renCal stores calendars as directories and events as standard .ics files, by default in ~/caldir/. · rencal.org, 12 Oct 2026
- macOS download
- The download page lists an Apple Silicon installer in dmg format. · rencal.org, 12 Oct 2026
- Mobile apps
- none · rencal.org, 21 Sept 2026
- Offline use
- The site says renCal works offline and syncs changes when the user reconnects. · rencal.org, 12 Oct 2026
- Omarchy widget
- The Omarchy bar widget shows upcoming events, highlights the next meeting, and can open events or join video calls with one click. · rencal.org, 12 Oct 2026
- Product
- renCal is a free, open-source desktop calendar for hackers. · rencal.org, 12 Oct 2026
- Reminder limits
- On Linux, the AUR, deb, and rpm packages install a background reminder service; with AppImage or macOS, renCal must stay running for reminder notifications. · rencal.org, 12 Oct 2026
- Support
- The troubleshooting guide directs users to search existing GitHub issues or open a bug report, and notes that GitHub issues are public. · rencal.org, 12 Oct 2026
- Themes
- Users can install community themes or bring their own CSS. · rencal.org, 12 Oct 2026
- Video meeting support
- Yes · rencal.org, 21 Sept 2026
Where renCal stands on Freedom251
- Calendar apps#71 of 194