Best Todoist Alternatives in 2025
Todoist pioneered simple task management, but it's still just manual list-making. Modern alternatives use AI to actually help you plan, prioritize, and get things done—not just check boxes.
Quick Comparison
| Tool | AI Planning | Best Feature | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serena | ✓ Full AI | AI breaks down projects automatically | Free / $12/mo |
| Todoist | Limited AI | Natural language input | Free / $4/mo |
| TickTick | ✗ | Built-in Pomodoro timer | Free / $36/yr |
| Things 3 | ✗ | Beautiful design | $49.99 once |
Why Task Management Needs AI (Not Just Lists)
From Manual Entry to Intelligent Planning
Todoist and similar apps are digital to-do lists—you still do all the thinking. Serena's AI actually helps you break down "Launch new website" into actionable steps, suggests realistic timeframes, and helps prioritize based on your goals.
Beyond Basic Reminders
While Todoist sends notifications, Serena's AI understands context. It knows when you're most productive, suggests the best time to tackle complex tasks, and helps you maintain focus with intelligent scheduling.
Complete Productivity System
Stop juggling multiple apps. Serena combines AI-powered tasks with notes, calendar, and projects in one clean interface. Everything works together seamlessly, with AI connecting the dots between your tasks, notes, and schedule.
Detailed Comparison
#1SerenaRECOMMENDED
AI Task Planning That Actually Thinks for You
While Todoist requires manual task entry and organization, Serena uses AI to intelligently break down your projects, suggest task priorities, and help you plan your day. Get AI-powered task management included in every plan—not as an expensive add-on.
Pros
- ✓AI breaks down complex projects into actionable tasks automatically
- ✓Smart daily planning with AI suggestions
- ✓Integrated notes and calendar alongside tasks
- ✓Focus mode with timer for deep work
- ✓AI assistant included in all plans
- ✓Clean, distraction-free interface
Cons
- ✗Newer platform with evolving mobile apps
- ✗Less third-party integrations than established tools
Best for: Professionals who want intelligent task management that goes beyond simple to-do lists.
Pricing: Free plan available. Pro at $12/month with full AI capabilities.
#2TickTick
Feature-Rich Task Manager
TickTick combines task management with habit tracking, calendar views, and Pomodoro timer. It offers more features than Todoist but can feel overwhelming.
Pros
- ✓Built-in calendar and habit tracker
- ✓Pomodoro timer included
- ✓Natural language input
- ✓Good mobile apps
Cons
- ✗Cluttered interface with many features
- ✗Limited AI capabilities
- ✗Premium features are expensive
- ✗Steep learning curve for all features
Best for: Users who want an all-in-one productivity app and don't mind complexity.
Pricing: Free plan limited. Premium at $35.99/year.
#3Any.do
Simple and Visual
Any.do focuses on simplicity with a clean interface and basic task management features. Good for personal use but lacks advanced capabilities.
Pros
- ✓Very simple interface
- ✓Good mobile experience
- ✓WhatsApp integration
- ✓Location-based reminders
Cons
- ✗Very basic features
- ✗No AI assistance
- ✗Limited project management
- ✗Expensive for what it offers
Best for: Casual users who need basic task tracking without complexity.
Pricing: Free plan very limited. Premium at $9.99/month.
#4Things 3
Beautiful but Apple-Only
Things 3 is an elegant task manager exclusive to Apple devices. Beautiful design and smooth experience, but limited to one ecosystem.
Pros
- ✓Beautiful, intuitive design
- ✓Excellent Apple ecosystem integration
- ✓Natural language input
- ✓No subscription (one-time purchase)
Cons
- ✗Apple devices only
- ✗No collaboration features
- ✗No AI capabilities
- ✗Expensive upfront cost ($49.99)
Best for: Apple users who prioritize design and don't need cross-platform access.
Pricing: One-time purchase: $49.99 (Mac), $19.99 (iPad), $9.99 (iPhone).
#5Microsoft To Do
Free but Basic
Microsoft's free task manager integrates well with Office 365 but lacks advanced features and AI capabilities.
Pros
- ✓Completely free
- ✓Microsoft 365 integration
- ✓Simple interface
- ✓Cross-platform support
Cons
- ✗Very basic features
- ✗No AI assistance
- ✗Limited customization
- ✗No advanced planning tools
Best for: Microsoft users who need basic task management at no cost.
Pricing: Free with Microsoft account.
#6Asana
Powerful but Overkill for Individuals
Asana is built for team collaboration with robust project management features. Often too complex for personal task management.
Pros
- ✓Excellent for team collaboration
- ✓Multiple project views
- ✓Automation features
- ✓Extensive integrations
Cons
- ✗Overkill for personal use
- ✗Steep learning curve
- ✗AI features cost extra
- ✗Expensive for small teams
Best for: Teams needing comprehensive project management, not individual task tracking.
Pricing: Free for up to 15 users. Paid plans from $10.99/user/month.