Side by side
Align vs Ellie Planner
Both stand on time blocking apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan iPhone
Align combines calendar events, recurring plans, reminders, and subtasks in a visual schedule, with core planning features on its free plan. Check the iOS requirement and App Store for Align Plus pricing before choosing it.
Visit Align
Free plan iPhoneMacWeb+1
Ellie combines task capture, calendar-based timeboxing, and time tracking in a daily planner. Its free plan includes unlimited tasks and Brain Dump, while several calendar and planning features are part of Pro.
Visit Ellie PlannerThe facts
| Align | Ellie Planner | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | iPhone | iPhone, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Pro: $9.99 a month |
| Plans published | 6 | 3 |
| Maker | Not published | Ellie Planner |
| Website | align.day | ellieplanner.com |
| On time blocking apps | #8 of 31 | #4 of 31 |
Align: what it does well
- Free plan includes unlimited time blocks and calendar sync.
- Blocks can repeat daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly.
- Checklist subtasks can mark a block complete.
- Per-block notification settings are available.
- Maker says data can sync to private iCloud.
What to know first
- Requires iOS 17 or later.
- Other Apple platforms are not supported.
- Align Plus prices are shown in the App Store.
Ellie Planner: what it does well
- Brain Dump can be converted into a daily plan.
- Kanban tasks can be dragged into a calendar.
- Includes a built-in time tracker and analytics.
- Users can export data or delete accounts.
What to know first
- Timebox mode requires Pro.
- Google and Apple Calendar are listed with Pro.
- Free access is listed for iPhone, iPad, and web.
Alternatives to Align Alternatives to Ellie Planner The whole list