7 Best Alternatives to Microsoft Project in 2025

Around 70% of organizations encounter at least one project failure annually, highlighting the importance of effective project management tools and strategies. While Microsoft Project is a popular choice, especially among those already using the Microsoft ecosystem, its limited collaboration options, steep learning curve, and high cost can be drawbacks for many.

Fortunately, there are more intuitive and innovative alternatives that adapt to your workflow, often at lower costs. These tools enhance team collaboration and offer features that Microsoft Project lacks. If you’re seeking a Microsoft Project alternative to streamline your project management process, you’re in the right place. Here’s a closer look at the best alternatives available in 2025.

Understanding Microsoft Project and the Need for Alternatives

Microsoft Project is a robust project management platform designed for planning, executing, and tracking projects. It offers tools for budget management, resource allocation, project scheduling, and task tracking, integrating seamlessly with other Microsoft 365 products like Teams and Excel. Despite its strengths, Microsoft Project can be challenging to adapt to without technical support and may not provide the affordability or collaboration features some businesses need.

Top 7 Alternatives to Microsoft Project

If you’re exploring alternatives, consider these seven options that offer diverse features to fit different needs:

1. Smartsheet

Smartsheet is a versatile project management platform tailored for enterprises but suitable for businesses of all sizes. It features a tabular, spreadsheet-style interface with advanced capabilities like Gantt charts, calendars, and traditional grids. Smartsheet supports task assignments, calendar planning, document sharing, and progress tracking. It integrates with tools like Dropbox, Google Drive, Slack, and Salesforce, providing real-time reporting and strong collaboration features. Pricing starts at $9 per user per month, with a 30-day free trial.

2. ClickUp

ClickUp is a highly adaptable project management tool with multiple views, including list, board, and calendar layouts. It supports goal tracking, task management, and document collaboration, featuring a built-in AI notetaker. ClickUp allows customization of workflows using templates, task assignment, and deadline setting. It offers a free plan with limited storage, with paid plans starting at $7 per user per month.

3. Wrike

Wrike is designed for large teams and enterprises, providing a comprehensive solution with Gantt charts, file-sharing, reporting capabilities, customizable dashboards, and resource optimization. Wrike integrates with Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Google Drive. Its workload view helps distribute tasks evenly among team members. A free plan with limited storage and a paid plan starting at $10 per user per month are available.

4. Monday.com

Monday.com offers a user-friendly interface with simple structures for clear task management. It provides a work management platform with templates and color-coded boards for easy tracking of tasks and timelines. Monday.com ensures real-time communication and updates, with a free plan for up to two users and paid plans starting at $27 for three users per month.

5. Zoho Projects

Zoho Projects is an online project management software that allows customization of workspaces with fields, dashboards, and tasks. It integrates seamlessly with Zoho apps and third-party applications like Microsoft Teams and Slack. Zoho Projects offers detailed reports and insights, utilizing Gantt charts at a competitive price. Paid plans begin at $4 per user per month.

6. Asana

Asana helps track team tasks, plan content, and manage project workflows. It provides visualization through boards, timelines, or lists, making project breakdown and deadline management straightforward. Asana offers automation of repetitive tasks and integrates with over 200 apps, including Zoom and Google Drive. It has a free plan for up to 10 members, with paid options starting at $11 per user per month.

7. Trello

Trello simplifies task tracking with visual tools like cards, boards, and lists. It provides real-time updates and supports both personal and large-scale project management. Trello’s checklist and labeling system enhance task organization. It integrates with Jira, Google Drive, and Slack, offering a free plan with limited boards and paid plans starting at $6 per user per month.

Conclusion

While Microsoft Project is a natural choice for companies using other Microsoft tools, it might not suit all organizations due to limitations in collaboration, integration, and pricing. Exploring the alternatives like Smartsheet, ClickUp, Wrike, Monday.com, Zoho Projects, Asana, and Trello can provide solutions that are affordable, user-friendly, and feature-rich. Try these tools to see which best fits your organization’s needs.