Side by side
Microsoft Project vs PROJECT in a box
Both stand on project management tools. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APIWebWindows
Planner brings task and project work into one online experience, with additional planning features across its plans. Check the trial terms and the stated Project Online retirement date when evaluating it.
Visit Microsoft Project Free plan MacSelf-hostedWeb+1
PROJECT in a box combines planning, governance, reporting and financial tools with several deployment and licensing choices. Buyers should compare edition limits, collaboration availability and the differing one-time or yearly prices.
Visit PROJECT in a boxThe facts
| Microsoft Project | PROJECT in a box | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Web, Windows | Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | See the plans | YourPMO: £99 a year |
| Plans published | 6 | 6 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | microsoft.com | projectinabox.org.uk |
| On project management tools | #22 of 196 | #81 of 196 |
Microsoft Project: what it does well
- Provides Grid, Board, Schedule, and Charts views.
- Plan 1 includes dependencies, milestones, and sprints.
- Lists time tracking and guest access.
- The included Microsoft 365 offering costs nothing.
What to know first
- A one-month trial requires a credit card.
- The trial converts to paid unless canceled.
- Planner Agent AI capabilities require a Microsoft 365 Copilot license.
- Project Online is stated to retire September 30, 2026.
PROJECT in a box: what it does well
- Supports PRINCE2, MSP, Agile and Praxis methods
- Planner works standalone
- Word and Excel document support
- Free Community Edition available forever
- SharePoint hosting in selected editions
What to know first
- Community Edition limited to one user
- Community Edition lacks collaboration threads
- No free trial
- Support limited to UK office hours
Alternatives to Microsoft Project Alternatives to PROJECT in a box The whole list