Side by side
GSD Task Manager vs Principal Task
Both stand on to-do list apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan iPhoneMacSelf-hosted+1
GSD Task Manager offers a focused, open-source task workflow with offline use and local-first storage. Optional sync, self-hosting, and MCP support add flexibility, while hosted synchronization has stated plaintext-at-rest access for the operator.
Visit GSD Task Manager Free plan AndroidiPhoneWeb
Principal Task covers everyday task lists and detailed GTD-style organization on web and mobile. Its always-online design and Premium-only advanced views should guide plan selection.
Visit Principal TaskThe facts
| GSD Task Manager | Principal Task | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | iPhone, Mac, Self-hosted, Web | Android, iPhone, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Premium (annual): $24 a year |
| Plans published | 1 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | Principal Task |
| Website | github.com | principaltask.com |
| On to-do list apps | #63 of 150 | #59 of 150 |
GSD Task Manager: what it does well
- Organizes work through four Eisenhower actions
- Web app works offline as a PWA
- Stores web tasks locally by default
- Supports JSON export and import
- No tracking, analytics, or ads
What to know first
- Optional sync is off by default
- Hosted sync data is plaintext at rest
- MCP features require sync enabled
- Self-hosting requires the Docker stack
Principal Task: what it does well
- Available on web, iOS, and Android
- Supports recurring tasks, reminders, and unlimited-depth subtasks
- Organizes tasks by multiple attributes
- Includes free Task Velocity scoring
- Offers Kanban boards on Premium
What to know first
- No offline access
- Real-time syncing requires internet
- Kanban and history features require Premium
- Free plan has basic MCP
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