mobile phone
January 4, 2024

5 best daily planner apps for 2024 (iPhone & Android)

2024's daily planner apps cater to a variety of preferences and lifestyles. From specialized solutions for ADHD support and habit tracking to options emphasizing precision, simplicity, or holistic time management, there's an app to enhance your daily organization and efficiency.

Team Tiimo

Summary

  • Choosing a daily planner in 2024
  • What we considered when positioning the apps
  • Why choose a less visual planner app?
  • Why choose a more visual planner app?
  • Tiimo
  • Habit Tracker
  • Structured
  • TimeBloc
  • To-Do List
  • Choosing the right planner for your needs

Choosing a daily planner app in 2024

Daily planner apps have become essential tools for individuals seeking to streamline their routines, especially for those with ADHD or neurodivergent conditions. In this article, we'll explore five of the best daily planner apps for 2024, delving into their core features, pricing, and best use cases.

When choosing a daily planner app that suits your needs the most, you’d naturally consider factors such as core features and pricing. Beyond that, you’d need a way to guide your decision-making by comparing the speed at which each app can perform a function that is essential in all of them, regardless of their differentiation, that function being the “planning” part. On top of that, there is also the visual aspect of the app's interface to take into account. The visual design should be intuitive and appealing, making it easy for you to navigate through your daily schedule effortlessly.

The apps we've looked at and positioned here are: Tiimo, Habit Tracker, Structured, TimeBloc, To-Do List

A positioning map with daily planner apps.
Positioning daily planner apps based on level of visual expression and their TTP (time-to-plan) score.

The time-to-plan (TTP) score for each app:

  • Tiimo: 86
  • Habit Tracker: 76
  • Structured: 82
  • TimeBloc: 77
  • To-Do List: 76


What we considered when positioning each planner app


In a mobile daily planning app, two crucial factors that significantly impact user experience and overall effectiveness are the speed of planning activities and the visual design of the app.

Firstly, the speed at which users can plan activities is paramount. Time is a precious resource, and a mobile planning app should streamline the planning process to save users valuable minutes in their day. If the app is slow or complicated, users may become frustrated and opt for alternative methods or abandon planning altogether. A quick and efficient planning experience encourages users to engage with the app regularly, making it a valuable tool for managing their daily tasks. For these reasons we considered the time it would take a user to plan an activity to be a straightforward way to measure the apps' strength in everyday planning.

Secondly, the visual aspect of the app is equally essential. A visually appealing and intuitive interface enhances user engagement and comprehension. Users should be able to easily understand their daily schedules, priorities, and upcoming tasks at a glance. Visual cues, such as color coding, icons, and well-organized layouts, help users quickly grasp information, reducing cognitive load. An attractive design also fosters a positive emotional connection with the app, making users more likely to use it consistently.


When calculating the time-to-plan (TTP) score, we considered:

  • The time it takes from opening the app to finishing planning an activity.
  • The number of clicks required from opening the app to finishing planning an activity. Scrolls are counted as 1 click per touchscreen interaction. The clicks necessary to set a name for the activity are not counted, as the chosen activity for testing was the same across all apps.

When evaluating the level of visual expression, we looked at:

  • Aesthetic Appeal: We assessed how visually appealing the app's design and layout are, taking into account factors like color schemes, typography, and overall aesthetics.
  • User-Friendly Interface: We examined whether the visual elements contribute to a user-friendly experience, such as the ease of navigation, clarity of icons, and intuitive placement of information.
  • Information Presentation: We evaluated how effectively the app presents information visually, including the use of charts, graphs, and diagrams to help users understand their daily plans and priorities.
  • Customization Options: We considered the degree of visual customization available to users, allowing them to tailor the app's appearance to their preferences and needs.
  • Visual Hierarchy: We analyzed how well the app establishes a visual hierarchy to highlight important tasks and events, ensuring that users can quickly identify and prioritize their activities.

We do however realize, that the visual factor can be a very subjective matter as all individuals don't share the same standard for what they'd consider too visual or not visual enough, so we recommend that you try the apps and feel for yourself.

Why choose a less visual planner app?

A less visual daily planning app can be preferable for users who value simplicity, faster learning curves, reduced data usage and a task-focused experience. Such apps offer streamlined interfaces without distracting graphics, making them ideal for users who want straightforward functionality and efficient planning.

Additionally, a less visual design can be more inclusive for those with visual impairments and cater to individuals with limited data resources. Ultimately, the choice between a highly visual or less visual app depends on individual preferences and specific needs.

Why choose a more visual planner app?

A more visual daily planning app is favored by users who appreciate engaging aesthetics, visual cues, and intuitive designs. These apps provide visually appealing interfaces with icons, color coding, and animations that make it easier to understand and organize daily tasks at a glance. Visual apps can create a more immersive and emotionally satisfying planning experience, encouraging users to engage with the app regularly. They are well-suited for those who are visually oriented and thrive on vibrant, eye-catching layouts. While a less visual app may prioritize efficiency, a more visual one caters to users who value an engaging and aesthetically pleasing approach to daily planning.

In work settings, where efficiency and productivity are paramount, visual daily planner apps can also shine. They allow professionals to manage their schedules and tasks efficiently while simultaneously offering a visually stimulating and engaging experience. The use of color-coded categories, dynamic visuals, and interactive elements can enhance organization and decision-making in a fast-paced work environment.

Ultimately, while a less visual app may prioritize minimalism, a more visual one caters to users who value an engaging and aesthetically pleasing approach to daily planning. Whether you're managing tasks in a professional context or seeking support for personal organization, a visual digital planner app can offer an appealing and effective solution, especially for those with ADHD or in demanding work settings.

Daily planning designed to change your life.

Visualize time. Build focus. Make life happen. Tiimo is designed for people with ADHD, Autism, and everyone who thinks, works, and plans differently.

Get started with our free trial. Cancel anytime.

Tiimo

Tiimo stands out as a user-friendly daily planner designed to support individuals with ADHD and neurodivergent conditions. With a visual and structured interface, Tiimo helps users stay on track with their daily tasks through clear visual cues and reminders.

Tiimo is available on iOS & Android.

Core Features:

  • Visual planning with color-coded activities
  • Customizable reminders and notifications
  • Integration with wearable technology
  • Integrated tunes that users can listen to (available on free version)
  • AI feature that creates a checklist based on your input, allowing you to customize your to-dos. 

Pricing:

Tiimo offers a free version and and a premium option that unlocks more advanced features.

Best Use Cases:

Tiimo is ideal for those who benefit from visual cues and a structured routine, particularly helpful for individuals with ADHD or neurodivergence. It caters to a diverse user base and offers valuable support in various contexts, including the workplace.

  • Individuals with ADHD and Neurodivergence: Tiimo is a game-changer for individuals with ADHD and neurodivergent conditions who thrive in structured environments. It provides visual cues and a clear routine, making it easier to stay organized, manage time, and plan good routines from scratch. Whether it's keeping track of appointments, medication schedules, task initiation or daily routines, Tiimo offers invaluable support in daily life.
  • Professionals: Individuals in the workplace can benefit from Tiimo's support in managing their work-related tasks and schedules. It assists in staying focused, project timelines, and daily to-dos, ensuring that work responsibilities are well-structured and manageable
  • Students: Students with ADHD can utilize Tiimo to establish structured study routines and stay on top of assignments and deadlines. The app's visual and systematic approach enhances focus and productivity, helping students excel academically.
  • Parents of Neurodivergent Children: Parents of neurodivergent children find Tiimo helpful in creating structured daily routines for their children. It aids in managing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and therapy sessions while providing visual cues to help children stay on track.
  • Independent Living: Tiimo is valuable for individuals living independently, including those with ADHD or neurodivergent conditions. It supports managing household tasks, budgeting, and personal care routines, promoting independent living skills.

Habit Tracker

Habit Tracker is a simple app that helps you form and track new habits and routines. It's great for anyone who wants to establish and stick to their daily goals.

Habit Tracker is available on iOS.

Core Features:

  • Customizable habit tracking
  • Motivational reminders and progress tracking
  • Insightful statistics and habit trends

Pricing:

Habit Tracker operates on a freemium model, with premium features available for subscribers.

Best Use Cases:

Habit Tracker is perfect for individuals looking to develop new habits or maintain existing ones, beneficial for personal development and wellness goals. Its versatile features and user-friendly interface cater to a wide range of users seeking to make positive changes in their lives and enhance their overall well-being.

  • Health and Fitness Enthusiasts: Habit Tracker is perfect for individuals committed to improving their health and fitness. Whether you're aiming to hit the gym regularly, follow a specific diet plan, or drink more water, this app helps you set daily or weekly goals and track your progress. It provides insights into your habits and motivates you to stay on track with your fitness journey.
  • Students and Academics: Students can use Habit Tracker to establish effective study routines and time management skills. You can create habits for daily reading, completing assignments, or even taking short breaks to enhance productivity. This app assists in fostering discipline and achieving academic goals.
  • Creatives and Writers: Habit Tracker supports artists, writers, and creative individuals by encouraging consistent creative practices. Whether you're working on a novel, painting, or any artistic endeavor, you can set habits for daily or weekly creative sessions, making it easier to overcome creative blocks and maintain a productive creative flow.
  • Entrepreneurs and Business Professionals: Entrepreneurs and business leaders can leverage Habit Tracker to develop and reinforce daily routines that lead to success. It can help establish habits related to time management, networking, goal setting, and self-improvement, ultimately boosting productivity and enhancing business performance.
  • Language Learners: Habit Tracker is beneficial for individuals learning a new language. Setting daily language practice habits can significantly accelerate the learning process. The app reminds you to dedicate time to language study, helping you achieve fluency and proficiency.
  • Parents and Caregivers: Parents can use Habit Tracker to instill good habits in their children, such as bedtime routines, homework time, and chores. It facilitates family organization and ensures that everyone is on the same page when it comes to daily routines.
  • Recovery and Rehabilitation: Individuals on a journey of recovery or rehabilitation can benefit from Habit Tracker by setting and monitoring habits related to therapy, exercise, medication, or other aspects of their healing process. It provides motivation and accountability in challenging times.

Structured

Structured focuses on bringing precision and simplicity to daily planning. Its clean interface and straightforward design make it an excellent choice for those who prefer a minimalist approach.

Structured is availlable on iOS & Android.

Core Features:

  • Intuitive daily planning layout
  • Customizable task durations and reminders
  • Integration with Apple's ecosystem

Pricing:

Structured offers both a free version and a premium subscription with additional features.

Best Use Cases:

Structured is perfect for individuals who value simplicity and precision in their daily schedule, especially suitable for professionals and students. Its organized and systematic approach to time management makes it an ideal choice for various scenarios and user needs.

  • Students and Academic Achievers: Students can benefit from Structured by maintaining a well-organized study routine. It helps them manage assignments, exams, and coursework efficiently. The structured layout ensures that academic responsibilities are systematically handled, enhancing productivity and academic success.
  • Researchers and Scientists: Researchers and scientists benefit from Structured when organizing experiments, data analysis, and research projects. It ensures a well-structured approach to the research process, promoting accurate data collection and analysis.
  • Event Planners: Event planners find Structured invaluable for orchestrating events, conferences, and weddings. It helps them create detailed event schedules, coordinate logistics, and ensure that all aspects of the event run smoothly.
  • Personal Development Enthusiasts: Individuals focused on personal growth and self-improvement can use Structured to schedule and track their personal development goals. Whether it's fitness, learning new skills, or building healthy habits, this app provides a systematic framework to work towards self-improvement.
  • Time-Critical Professions: Professionals in time-critical industries such as healthcare, emergency services, and aviation rely on Structured to manage complex schedules, appointments, and deadlines. It ensures that critical tasks are prioritized and executed with precision.

TimeBloc

TimeBloc is designed for holistic time management. It encourages users to balance various aspects of their lives, from work to personal time, in a visually appealing and easy-to-navigate interface.

TimeBloc is available on iOS & Google Play

Core Features:

  • Time blocking for efficient task management
  • Customizable categories for different life aspects
  • Syncing with other calendars and devices

Pricing:

TimeBloc is available under a freemium model, with a premium version offering enhanced features.

Best Use Cases:

TimeBloc is ideal for those who want a balanced approach to time management, catering to both professionals and individuals looking to organize their personal life. This versatile app seamlessly adapts to a wide range of scenarios and user needs, making it a top choice for various use cases.

  • Students: For students striving to balance coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal life, TimeBloc offers an effective solution. The app enables you to create dedicated study schedules, set reminders for assignments and exams, and allocate time for leisure and relaxation. Its intuitive interface ensures that students of all ages can easily navigate and manage their time effectively.
  • Parents: TimeBloc assists parents in managing their busy lives by allowing them to coordinate family schedules, track children's activities, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. The app's shared calendar and notification features ensure that everyone in the family stays on the same page, reducing scheduling conflicts and enhancing family communication.
  • Freelancers and Entrepreneurs: If you're a freelancer or entrepreneur with a dynamic schedule, TimeBloc can help you stay organized. You can allocate time for client meetings, project work, administrative tasks, and personal commitments. The app's flexibility lets you adapt to changing priorities and maximize your productivity.
  • Creatives: Artists, writers, and other creative individuals can benefit from TimeBloc's ability to schedule dedicated creative sessions. It helps maintain a consistent creative routine and provides space for brainstorming, ideation, and uninterrupted work periods.
  • Fitness Enthusiasts: TimeBloc can also serve as a fitness planner. It allows you to schedule workouts, meal planning, and self-care routines. By integrating your fitness goals into your daily schedule, you can make healthier choices and stay committed to your well-being.
  • Travelers: Whether you're planning a vacation or coordinating business trips, TimeBloc helps you organize your itinerary, set reminders for flights, accommodations, and sightseeing plans, ensuring a stress-free travel experience.

To-Do List

To-Do List is all about simplifying tasks and reminders. Its straightforward interface allows users to focus on what's essential without getting overwhelmed by complex features.

To-Do List is available on iOS.

Core Features:

  • Easy task entry and management
  • Customizable reminders and notifications
  • Seamless syncing across devices

Pricing:

To-Do List offers both a free version and a premium upgrade for more advanced features.

Best Use Cases:

To-Do List is particularly beneficial for individuals who need a simple and effective way to manage daily tasks, making it suitable for personal and professional use. Its user-friendly features and straightforward design cater to a wide range of users seeking a hassle-free and efficient task management solution.

  • Students and Educators: Students and educators can rely on To-Do List to streamline academic responsibilities. You can create lists for assignments, exams, and study sessions, helping you stay on top of coursework without the complexity of more feature-rich apps.
  • Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners: Entrepreneurs and small business owners appreciate To-Do List's straightforward approach to daily operations. From tracking inventory and handling customer inquiries to scheduling appointments and managing finances, it simplifies essential business tasks, allowing you to focus on growing your venture.
  • Parents and Caregivers: Parents and caregivers find To-Do List invaluable for managing family schedules and household duties. You can create lists for groceries, chores, and children's activities, ensuring that family life runs smoothly without the need for complicated tools.
  • Personal Productivity and Goal Setting: Individuals focusing on personal productivity and goal achievement can benefit from To-Do List. It simplifies setting and tracking goals, habits, and daily routines, making it easier to work towards personal growth and self-improvement.
  • Travelers and Adventurers: Travelers and adventure seekers can utilize To-Do List to create packing lists and travel itineraries. It simplifies the task of organizing travel plans, ensuring that nothing is forgotten and allowing for a stress-free journey.

Choosing the right planner app for your needs

Selecting the right daily planner app is a highly individualized process, contingent on your unique needs, preferences, and daily life. With a wealth of digital tools available, you're likely to find an app tailored precisely to your requirements. Whether you seek visual cues, simplicity, holistic time management, task-centric features, or habit tracking, there's an app suited to your preferences. 

The journey involves exploring diverse options and assessing them against your specific needs. Some prefer visual aids and structured interfaces, while others favor minimalist designs. Apps range from comprehensive solutions that integrate calendars, tasks, goals, and habits to specialized task-oriented tools. 

Ultimately, the goal is to find an app that aligns seamlessly with your workflow and lifestyle, enhancing daily productivity and organization.
That being said, we hope our positioning of the apps based will guide you choosing the right app for your needs, depending on how much speed matters to you and whether you prefer a more minimalistic look or a higher visual appeal.

January 4, 2024

5 best daily planner apps for 2024 (iPhone & Android)

2024's daily planner apps cater to a variety of preferences and lifestyles. From specialized solutions for ADHD support and habit tracking to options emphasizing precision, simplicity, or holistic time management, there's an app to enhance your daily organization and efficiency.

Team Tiimo

Summary

  • Choosing a daily planner in 2024
  • What we considered when positioning the apps
  • Why choose a less visual planner app?
  • Why choose a more visual planner app?
  • Tiimo
  • Habit Tracker
  • Structured
  • TimeBloc
  • To-Do List
  • Choosing the right planner for your needs

Choosing a daily planner app in 2024

Daily planner apps have become essential tools for individuals seeking to streamline their routines, especially for those with ADHD or neurodivergent conditions. In this article, we'll explore five of the best daily planner apps for 2024, delving into their core features, pricing, and best use cases.

When choosing a daily planner app that suits your needs the most, you’d naturally consider factors such as core features and pricing. Beyond that, you’d need a way to guide your decision-making by comparing the speed at which each app can perform a function that is essential in all of them, regardless of their differentiation, that function being the “planning” part. On top of that, there is also the visual aspect of the app's interface to take into account. The visual design should be intuitive and appealing, making it easy for you to navigate through your daily schedule effortlessly.

The apps we've looked at and positioned here are: Tiimo, Habit Tracker, Structured, TimeBloc, To-Do List

A positioning map with daily planner apps.
Positioning daily planner apps based on level of visual expression and their TTP (time-to-plan) score.

The time-to-plan (TTP) score for each app:

  • Tiimo: 86
  • Habit Tracker: 76
  • Structured: 82
  • TimeBloc: 77
  • To-Do List: 76


What we considered when positioning each planner app


In a mobile daily planning app, two crucial factors that significantly impact user experience and overall effectiveness are the speed of planning activities and the visual design of the app.

Firstly, the speed at which users can plan activities is paramount. Time is a precious resource, and a mobile planning app should streamline the planning process to save users valuable minutes in their day. If the app is slow or complicated, users may become frustrated and opt for alternative methods or abandon planning altogether. A quick and efficient planning experience encourages users to engage with the app regularly, making it a valuable tool for managing their daily tasks. For these reasons we considered the time it would take a user to plan an activity to be a straightforward way to measure the apps' strength in everyday planning.

Secondly, the visual aspect of the app is equally essential. A visually appealing and intuitive interface enhances user engagement and comprehension. Users should be able to easily understand their daily schedules, priorities, and upcoming tasks at a glance. Visual cues, such as color coding, icons, and well-organized layouts, help users quickly grasp information, reducing cognitive load. An attractive design also fosters a positive emotional connection with the app, making users more likely to use it consistently.


When calculating the time-to-plan (TTP) score, we considered:

  • The time it takes from opening the app to finishing planning an activity.
  • The number of clicks required from opening the app to finishing planning an activity. Scrolls are counted as 1 click per touchscreen interaction. The clicks necessary to set a name for the activity are not counted, as the chosen activity for testing was the same across all apps.

When evaluating the level of visual expression, we looked at:

  • Aesthetic Appeal: We assessed how visually appealing the app's design and layout are, taking into account factors like color schemes, typography, and overall aesthetics.
  • User-Friendly Interface: We examined whether the visual elements contribute to a user-friendly experience, such as the ease of navigation, clarity of icons, and intuitive placement of information.
  • Information Presentation: We evaluated how effectively the app presents information visually, including the use of charts, graphs, and diagrams to help users understand their daily plans and priorities.
  • Customization Options: We considered the degree of visual customization available to users, allowing them to tailor the app's appearance to their preferences and needs.
  • Visual Hierarchy: We analyzed how well the app establishes a visual hierarchy to highlight important tasks and events, ensuring that users can quickly identify and prioritize their activities.

We do however realize, that the visual factor can be a very subjective matter as all individuals don't share the same standard for what they'd consider too visual or not visual enough, so we recommend that you try the apps and feel for yourself.

Why choose a less visual planner app?

A less visual daily planning app can be preferable for users who value simplicity, faster learning curves, reduced data usage and a task-focused experience. Such apps offer streamlined interfaces without distracting graphics, making them ideal for users who want straightforward functionality and efficient planning.

Additionally, a less visual design can be more inclusive for those with visual impairments and cater to individuals with limited data resources. Ultimately, the choice between a highly visual or less visual app depends on individual preferences and specific needs.

Why choose a more visual planner app?

A more visual daily planning app is favored by users who appreciate engaging aesthetics, visual cues, and intuitive designs. These apps provide visually appealing interfaces with icons, color coding, and animations that make it easier to understand and organize daily tasks at a glance. Visual apps can create a more immersive and emotionally satisfying planning experience, encouraging users to engage with the app regularly. They are well-suited for those who are visually oriented and thrive on vibrant, eye-catching layouts. While a less visual app may prioritize efficiency, a more visual one caters to users who value an engaging and aesthetically pleasing approach to daily planning.

In work settings, where efficiency and productivity are paramount, visual daily planner apps can also shine. They allow professionals to manage their schedules and tasks efficiently while simultaneously offering a visually stimulating and engaging experience. The use of color-coded categories, dynamic visuals, and interactive elements can enhance organization and decision-making in a fast-paced work environment.

Ultimately, while a less visual app may prioritize minimalism, a more visual one caters to users who value an engaging and aesthetically pleasing approach to daily planning. Whether you're managing tasks in a professional context or seeking support for personal organization, a visual digital planner app can offer an appealing and effective solution, especially for those with ADHD or in demanding work settings.

Daily planning designed to change your life.

Visualize time. Build focus. Make life happen. Tiimo is designed for people with ADHD, Autism, and everyone who thinks, works, and plans differently.

Get started with our free trial. Cancel anytime.

Tiimo

Tiimo stands out as a user-friendly daily planner designed to support individuals with ADHD and neurodivergent conditions. With a visual and structured interface, Tiimo helps users stay on track with their daily tasks through clear visual cues and reminders.

Tiimo is available on iOS & Android.

Core Features:

  • Visual planning with color-coded activities
  • Customizable reminders and notifications
  • Integration with wearable technology
  • Integrated tunes that users can listen to (available on free version)
  • AI feature that creates a checklist based on your input, allowing you to customize your to-dos. 

Pricing:

Tiimo offers a free version and and a premium option that unlocks more advanced features.

Best Use Cases:

Tiimo is ideal for those who benefit from visual cues and a structured routine, particularly helpful for individuals with ADHD or neurodivergence. It caters to a diverse user base and offers valuable support in various contexts, including the workplace.

  • Individuals with ADHD and Neurodivergence: Tiimo is a game-changer for individuals with ADHD and neurodivergent conditions who thrive in structured environments. It provides visual cues and a clear routine, making it easier to stay organized, manage time, and plan good routines from scratch. Whether it's keeping track of appointments, medication schedules, task initiation or daily routines, Tiimo offers invaluable support in daily life.
  • Professionals: Individuals in the workplace can benefit from Tiimo's support in managing their work-related tasks and schedules. It assists in staying focused, project timelines, and daily to-dos, ensuring that work responsibilities are well-structured and manageable
  • Students: Students with ADHD can utilize Tiimo to establish structured study routines and stay on top of assignments and deadlines. The app's visual and systematic approach enhances focus and productivity, helping students excel academically.
  • Parents of Neurodivergent Children: Parents of neurodivergent children find Tiimo helpful in creating structured daily routines for their children. It aids in managing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and therapy sessions while providing visual cues to help children stay on track.
  • Independent Living: Tiimo is valuable for individuals living independently, including those with ADHD or neurodivergent conditions. It supports managing household tasks, budgeting, and personal care routines, promoting independent living skills.

Habit Tracker

Habit Tracker is a simple app that helps you form and track new habits and routines. It's great for anyone who wants to establish and stick to their daily goals.

Habit Tracker is available on iOS.

Core Features:

  • Customizable habit tracking
  • Motivational reminders and progress tracking
  • Insightful statistics and habit trends

Pricing:

Habit Tracker operates on a freemium model, with premium features available for subscribers.

Best Use Cases:

Habit Tracker is perfect for individuals looking to develop new habits or maintain existing ones, beneficial for personal development and wellness goals. Its versatile features and user-friendly interface cater to a wide range of users seeking to make positive changes in their lives and enhance their overall well-being.

  • Health and Fitness Enthusiasts: Habit Tracker is perfect for individuals committed to improving their health and fitness. Whether you're aiming to hit the gym regularly, follow a specific diet plan, or drink more water, this app helps you set daily or weekly goals and track your progress. It provides insights into your habits and motivates you to stay on track with your fitness journey.
  • Students and Academics: Students can use Habit Tracker to establish effective study routines and time management skills. You can create habits for daily reading, completing assignments, or even taking short breaks to enhance productivity. This app assists in fostering discipline and achieving academic goals.
  • Creatives and Writers: Habit Tracker supports artists, writers, and creative individuals by encouraging consistent creative practices. Whether you're working on a novel, painting, or any artistic endeavor, you can set habits for daily or weekly creative sessions, making it easier to overcome creative blocks and maintain a productive creative flow.
  • Entrepreneurs and Business Professionals: Entrepreneurs and business leaders can leverage Habit Tracker to develop and reinforce daily routines that lead to success. It can help establish habits related to time management, networking, goal setting, and self-improvement, ultimately boosting productivity and enhancing business performance.
  • Language Learners: Habit Tracker is beneficial for individuals learning a new language. Setting daily language practice habits can significantly accelerate the learning process. The app reminds you to dedicate time to language study, helping you achieve fluency and proficiency.
  • Parents and Caregivers: Parents can use Habit Tracker to instill good habits in their children, such as bedtime routines, homework time, and chores. It facilitates family organization and ensures that everyone is on the same page when it comes to daily routines.
  • Recovery and Rehabilitation: Individuals on a journey of recovery or rehabilitation can benefit from Habit Tracker by setting and monitoring habits related to therapy, exercise, medication, or other aspects of their healing process. It provides motivation and accountability in challenging times.

Structured

Structured focuses on bringing precision and simplicity to daily planning. Its clean interface and straightforward design make it an excellent choice for those who prefer a minimalist approach.

Structured is availlable on iOS & Android.

Core Features:

  • Intuitive daily planning layout
  • Customizable task durations and reminders
  • Integration with Apple's ecosystem

Pricing:

Structured offers both a free version and a premium subscription with additional features.

Best Use Cases:

Structured is perfect for individuals who value simplicity and precision in their daily schedule, especially suitable for professionals and students. Its organized and systematic approach to time management makes it an ideal choice for various scenarios and user needs.

  • Students and Academic Achievers: Students can benefit from Structured by maintaining a well-organized study routine. It helps them manage assignments, exams, and coursework efficiently. The structured layout ensures that academic responsibilities are systematically handled, enhancing productivity and academic success.
  • Researchers and Scientists: Researchers and scientists benefit from Structured when organizing experiments, data analysis, and research projects. It ensures a well-structured approach to the research process, promoting accurate data collection and analysis.
  • Event Planners: Event planners find Structured invaluable for orchestrating events, conferences, and weddings. It helps them create detailed event schedules, coordinate logistics, and ensure that all aspects of the event run smoothly.
  • Personal Development Enthusiasts: Individuals focused on personal growth and self-improvement can use Structured to schedule and track their personal development goals. Whether it's fitness, learning new skills, or building healthy habits, this app provides a systematic framework to work towards self-improvement.
  • Time-Critical Professions: Professionals in time-critical industries such as healthcare, emergency services, and aviation rely on Structured to manage complex schedules, appointments, and deadlines. It ensures that critical tasks are prioritized and executed with precision.

TimeBloc

TimeBloc is designed for holistic time management. It encourages users to balance various aspects of their lives, from work to personal time, in a visually appealing and easy-to-navigate interface.

TimeBloc is available on iOS & Google Play

Core Features:

  • Time blocking for efficient task management
  • Customizable categories for different life aspects
  • Syncing with other calendars and devices

Pricing:

TimeBloc is available under a freemium model, with a premium version offering enhanced features.

Best Use Cases:

TimeBloc is ideal for those who want a balanced approach to time management, catering to both professionals and individuals looking to organize their personal life. This versatile app seamlessly adapts to a wide range of scenarios and user needs, making it a top choice for various use cases.

  • Students: For students striving to balance coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal life, TimeBloc offers an effective solution. The app enables you to create dedicated study schedules, set reminders for assignments and exams, and allocate time for leisure and relaxation. Its intuitive interface ensures that students of all ages can easily navigate and manage their time effectively.
  • Parents: TimeBloc assists parents in managing their busy lives by allowing them to coordinate family schedules, track children's activities, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. The app's shared calendar and notification features ensure that everyone in the family stays on the same page, reducing scheduling conflicts and enhancing family communication.
  • Freelancers and Entrepreneurs: If you're a freelancer or entrepreneur with a dynamic schedule, TimeBloc can help you stay organized. You can allocate time for client meetings, project work, administrative tasks, and personal commitments. The app's flexibility lets you adapt to changing priorities and maximize your productivity.
  • Creatives: Artists, writers, and other creative individuals can benefit from TimeBloc's ability to schedule dedicated creative sessions. It helps maintain a consistent creative routine and provides space for brainstorming, ideation, and uninterrupted work periods.
  • Fitness Enthusiasts: TimeBloc can also serve as a fitness planner. It allows you to schedule workouts, meal planning, and self-care routines. By integrating your fitness goals into your daily schedule, you can make healthier choices and stay committed to your well-being.
  • Travelers: Whether you're planning a vacation or coordinating business trips, TimeBloc helps you organize your itinerary, set reminders for flights, accommodations, and sightseeing plans, ensuring a stress-free travel experience.

To-Do List

To-Do List is all about simplifying tasks and reminders. Its straightforward interface allows users to focus on what's essential without getting overwhelmed by complex features.

To-Do List is available on iOS.

Core Features:

  • Easy task entry and management
  • Customizable reminders and notifications
  • Seamless syncing across devices

Pricing:

To-Do List offers both a free version and a premium upgrade for more advanced features.

Best Use Cases:

To-Do List is particularly beneficial for individuals who need a simple and effective way to manage daily tasks, making it suitable for personal and professional use. Its user-friendly features and straightforward design cater to a wide range of users seeking a hassle-free and efficient task management solution.

  • Students and Educators: Students and educators can rely on To-Do List to streamline academic responsibilities. You can create lists for assignments, exams, and study sessions, helping you stay on top of coursework without the complexity of more feature-rich apps.
  • Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners: Entrepreneurs and small business owners appreciate To-Do List's straightforward approach to daily operations. From tracking inventory and handling customer inquiries to scheduling appointments and managing finances, it simplifies essential business tasks, allowing you to focus on growing your venture.
  • Parents and Caregivers: Parents and caregivers find To-Do List invaluable for managing family schedules and household duties. You can create lists for groceries, chores, and children's activities, ensuring that family life runs smoothly without the need for complicated tools.
  • Personal Productivity and Goal Setting: Individuals focusing on personal productivity and goal achievement can benefit from To-Do List. It simplifies setting and tracking goals, habits, and daily routines, making it easier to work towards personal growth and self-improvement.
  • Travelers and Adventurers: Travelers and adventure seekers can utilize To-Do List to create packing lists and travel itineraries. It simplifies the task of organizing travel plans, ensuring that nothing is forgotten and allowing for a stress-free journey.

Choosing the right planner app for your needs

Selecting the right daily planner app is a highly individualized process, contingent on your unique needs, preferences, and daily life. With a wealth of digital tools available, you're likely to find an app tailored precisely to your requirements. Whether you seek visual cues, simplicity, holistic time management, task-centric features, or habit tracking, there's an app suited to your preferences. 

The journey involves exploring diverse options and assessing them against your specific needs. Some prefer visual aids and structured interfaces, while others favor minimalist designs. Apps range from comprehensive solutions that integrate calendars, tasks, goals, and habits to specialized task-oriented tools. 

Ultimately, the goal is to find an app that aligns seamlessly with your workflow and lifestyle, enhancing daily productivity and organization.
That being said, we hope our positioning of the apps based will guide you choosing the right app for your needs, depending on how much speed matters to you and whether you prefer a more minimalistic look or a higher visual appeal.

5 best daily planner apps for 2024 (iPhone & Android)
January 4, 2024

5 best daily planner apps for 2024 (iPhone & Android)

2024's daily planner apps cater to a variety of preferences and lifestyles. From specialized solutions for ADHD support and habit tracking to options emphasizing precision, simplicity, or holistic time management, there's an app to enhance your daily organization and efficiency.

Georgina Shute

Georgina is an ADHD coach and digital leader. She set up KindTwo to empower as many people as possible to work with Neurodiversity - not against it.

Summary

  • Choosing a daily planner in 2024
  • What we considered when positioning the apps
  • Why choose a less visual planner app?
  • Why choose a more visual planner app?
  • Tiimo
  • Habit Tracker
  • Structured
  • TimeBloc
  • To-Do List
  • Choosing the right planner for your needs

Choosing a daily planner app in 2024

Daily planner apps have become essential tools for individuals seeking to streamline their routines, especially for those with ADHD or neurodivergent conditions. In this article, we'll explore five of the best daily planner apps for 2024, delving into their core features, pricing, and best use cases.

When choosing a daily planner app that suits your needs the most, you’d naturally consider factors such as core features and pricing. Beyond that, you’d need a way to guide your decision-making by comparing the speed at which each app can perform a function that is essential in all of them, regardless of their differentiation, that function being the “planning” part. On top of that, there is also the visual aspect of the app's interface to take into account. The visual design should be intuitive and appealing, making it easy for you to navigate through your daily schedule effortlessly.

The apps we've looked at and positioned here are: Tiimo, Habit Tracker, Structured, TimeBloc, To-Do List

A positioning map with daily planner apps.
Positioning daily planner apps based on level of visual expression and their TTP (time-to-plan) score.

The time-to-plan (TTP) score for each app:

  • Tiimo: 86
  • Habit Tracker: 76
  • Structured: 82
  • TimeBloc: 77
  • To-Do List: 76


What we considered when positioning each planner app


In a mobile daily planning app, two crucial factors that significantly impact user experience and overall effectiveness are the speed of planning activities and the visual design of the app.

Firstly, the speed at which users can plan activities is paramount. Time is a precious resource, and a mobile planning app should streamline the planning process to save users valuable minutes in their day. If the app is slow or complicated, users may become frustrated and opt for alternative methods or abandon planning altogether. A quick and efficient planning experience encourages users to engage with the app regularly, making it a valuable tool for managing their daily tasks. For these reasons we considered the time it would take a user to plan an activity to be a straightforward way to measure the apps' strength in everyday planning.

Secondly, the visual aspect of the app is equally essential. A visually appealing and intuitive interface enhances user engagement and comprehension. Users should be able to easily understand their daily schedules, priorities, and upcoming tasks at a glance. Visual cues, such as color coding, icons, and well-organized layouts, help users quickly grasp information, reducing cognitive load. An attractive design also fosters a positive emotional connection with the app, making users more likely to use it consistently.


When calculating the time-to-plan (TTP) score, we considered:

  • The time it takes from opening the app to finishing planning an activity.
  • The number of clicks required from opening the app to finishing planning an activity. Scrolls are counted as 1 click per touchscreen interaction. The clicks necessary to set a name for the activity are not counted, as the chosen activity for testing was the same across all apps.

When evaluating the level of visual expression, we looked at:

  • Aesthetic Appeal: We assessed how visually appealing the app's design and layout are, taking into account factors like color schemes, typography, and overall aesthetics.
  • User-Friendly Interface: We examined whether the visual elements contribute to a user-friendly experience, such as the ease of navigation, clarity of icons, and intuitive placement of information.
  • Information Presentation: We evaluated how effectively the app presents information visually, including the use of charts, graphs, and diagrams to help users understand their daily plans and priorities.
  • Customization Options: We considered the degree of visual customization available to users, allowing them to tailor the app's appearance to their preferences and needs.
  • Visual Hierarchy: We analyzed how well the app establishes a visual hierarchy to highlight important tasks and events, ensuring that users can quickly identify and prioritize their activities.

We do however realize, that the visual factor can be a very subjective matter as all individuals don't share the same standard for what they'd consider too visual or not visual enough, so we recommend that you try the apps and feel for yourself.

Why choose a less visual planner app?

A less visual daily planning app can be preferable for users who value simplicity, faster learning curves, reduced data usage and a task-focused experience. Such apps offer streamlined interfaces without distracting graphics, making them ideal for users who want straightforward functionality and efficient planning.

Additionally, a less visual design can be more inclusive for those with visual impairments and cater to individuals with limited data resources. Ultimately, the choice between a highly visual or less visual app depends on individual preferences and specific needs.

Why choose a more visual planner app?

A more visual daily planning app is favored by users who appreciate engaging aesthetics, visual cues, and intuitive designs. These apps provide visually appealing interfaces with icons, color coding, and animations that make it easier to understand and organize daily tasks at a glance. Visual apps can create a more immersive and emotionally satisfying planning experience, encouraging users to engage with the app regularly. They are well-suited for those who are visually oriented and thrive on vibrant, eye-catching layouts. While a less visual app may prioritize efficiency, a more visual one caters to users who value an engaging and aesthetically pleasing approach to daily planning.

In work settings, where efficiency and productivity are paramount, visual daily planner apps can also shine. They allow professionals to manage their schedules and tasks efficiently while simultaneously offering a visually stimulating and engaging experience. The use of color-coded categories, dynamic visuals, and interactive elements can enhance organization and decision-making in a fast-paced work environment.

Ultimately, while a less visual app may prioritize minimalism, a more visual one caters to users who value an engaging and aesthetically pleasing approach to daily planning. Whether you're managing tasks in a professional context or seeking support for personal organization, a visual digital planner app can offer an appealing and effective solution, especially for those with ADHD or in demanding work settings.

Tiimo

Tiimo stands out as a user-friendly daily planner designed to support individuals with ADHD and neurodivergent conditions. With a visual and structured interface, Tiimo helps users stay on track with their daily tasks through clear visual cues and reminders.

Tiimo is available on iOS & Android.

Core Features:

  • Visual planning with color-coded activities
  • Customizable reminders and notifications
  • Integration with wearable technology
  • Integrated tunes that users can listen to (available on free version)
  • AI feature that creates a checklist based on your input, allowing you to customize your to-dos. 

Pricing:

Tiimo offers a free version and and a premium option that unlocks more advanced features.

Best Use Cases:

Tiimo is ideal for those who benefit from visual cues and a structured routine, particularly helpful for individuals with ADHD or neurodivergence. It caters to a diverse user base and offers valuable support in various contexts, including the workplace.

  • Individuals with ADHD and Neurodivergence: Tiimo is a game-changer for individuals with ADHD and neurodivergent conditions who thrive in structured environments. It provides visual cues and a clear routine, making it easier to stay organized, manage time, and plan good routines from scratch. Whether it's keeping track of appointments, medication schedules, task initiation or daily routines, Tiimo offers invaluable support in daily life.
  • Professionals: Individuals in the workplace can benefit from Tiimo's support in managing their work-related tasks and schedules. It assists in staying focused, project timelines, and daily to-dos, ensuring that work responsibilities are well-structured and manageable
  • Students: Students with ADHD can utilize Tiimo to establish structured study routines and stay on top of assignments and deadlines. The app's visual and systematic approach enhances focus and productivity, helping students excel academically.
  • Parents of Neurodivergent Children: Parents of neurodivergent children find Tiimo helpful in creating structured daily routines for their children. It aids in managing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and therapy sessions while providing visual cues to help children stay on track.
  • Independent Living: Tiimo is valuable for individuals living independently, including those with ADHD or neurodivergent conditions. It supports managing household tasks, budgeting, and personal care routines, promoting independent living skills.

Habit Tracker

Habit Tracker is a simple app that helps you form and track new habits and routines. It's great for anyone who wants to establish and stick to their daily goals.

Habit Tracker is available on iOS.

Core Features:

  • Customizable habit tracking
  • Motivational reminders and progress tracking
  • Insightful statistics and habit trends

Pricing:

Habit Tracker operates on a freemium model, with premium features available for subscribers.

Best Use Cases:

Habit Tracker is perfect for individuals looking to develop new habits or maintain existing ones, beneficial for personal development and wellness goals. Its versatile features and user-friendly interface cater to a wide range of users seeking to make positive changes in their lives and enhance their overall well-being.

  • Health and Fitness Enthusiasts: Habit Tracker is perfect for individuals committed to improving their health and fitness. Whether you're aiming to hit the gym regularly, follow a specific diet plan, or drink more water, this app helps you set daily or weekly goals and track your progress. It provides insights into your habits and motivates you to stay on track with your fitness journey.
  • Students and Academics: Students can use Habit Tracker to establish effective study routines and time management skills. You can create habits for daily reading, completing assignments, or even taking short breaks to enhance productivity. This app assists in fostering discipline and achieving academic goals.
  • Creatives and Writers: Habit Tracker supports artists, writers, and creative individuals by encouraging consistent creative practices. Whether you're working on a novel, painting, or any artistic endeavor, you can set habits for daily or weekly creative sessions, making it easier to overcome creative blocks and maintain a productive creative flow.
  • Entrepreneurs and Business Professionals: Entrepreneurs and business leaders can leverage Habit Tracker to develop and reinforce daily routines that lead to success. It can help establish habits related to time management, networking, goal setting, and self-improvement, ultimately boosting productivity and enhancing business performance.
  • Language Learners: Habit Tracker is beneficial for individuals learning a new language. Setting daily language practice habits can significantly accelerate the learning process. The app reminds you to dedicate time to language study, helping you achieve fluency and proficiency.
  • Parents and Caregivers: Parents can use Habit Tracker to instill good habits in their children, such as bedtime routines, homework time, and chores. It facilitates family organization and ensures that everyone is on the same page when it comes to daily routines.
  • Recovery and Rehabilitation: Individuals on a journey of recovery or rehabilitation can benefit from Habit Tracker by setting and monitoring habits related to therapy, exercise, medication, or other aspects of their healing process. It provides motivation and accountability in challenging times.

Structured

Structured focuses on bringing precision and simplicity to daily planning. Its clean interface and straightforward design make it an excellent choice for those who prefer a minimalist approach.

Structured is availlable on iOS & Android.

Core Features:

  • Intuitive daily planning layout
  • Customizable task durations and reminders
  • Integration with Apple's ecosystem

Pricing:

Structured offers both a free version and a premium subscription with additional features.

Best Use Cases:

Structured is perfect for individuals who value simplicity and precision in their daily schedule, especially suitable for professionals and students. Its organized and systematic approach to time management makes it an ideal choice for various scenarios and user needs.

  • Students and Academic Achievers: Students can benefit from Structured by maintaining a well-organized study routine. It helps them manage assignments, exams, and coursework efficiently. The structured layout ensures that academic responsibilities are systematically handled, enhancing productivity and academic success.
  • Researchers and Scientists: Researchers and scientists benefit from Structured when organizing experiments, data analysis, and research projects. It ensures a well-structured approach to the research process, promoting accurate data collection and analysis.
  • Event Planners: Event planners find Structured invaluable for orchestrating events, conferences, and weddings. It helps them create detailed event schedules, coordinate logistics, and ensure that all aspects of the event run smoothly.
  • Personal Development Enthusiasts: Individuals focused on personal growth and self-improvement can use Structured to schedule and track their personal development goals. Whether it's fitness, learning new skills, or building healthy habits, this app provides a systematic framework to work towards self-improvement.
  • Time-Critical Professions: Professionals in time-critical industries such as healthcare, emergency services, and aviation rely on Structured to manage complex schedules, appointments, and deadlines. It ensures that critical tasks are prioritized and executed with precision.

TimeBloc

TimeBloc is designed for holistic time management. It encourages users to balance various aspects of their lives, from work to personal time, in a visually appealing and easy-to-navigate interface.

TimeBloc is available on iOS & Google Play

Core Features:

  • Time blocking for efficient task management
  • Customizable categories for different life aspects
  • Syncing with other calendars and devices

Pricing:

TimeBloc is available under a freemium model, with a premium version offering enhanced features.

Best Use Cases:

TimeBloc is ideal for those who want a balanced approach to time management, catering to both professionals and individuals looking to organize their personal life. This versatile app seamlessly adapts to a wide range of scenarios and user needs, making it a top choice for various use cases.

  • Students: For students striving to balance coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal life, TimeBloc offers an effective solution. The app enables you to create dedicated study schedules, set reminders for assignments and exams, and allocate time for leisure and relaxation. Its intuitive interface ensures that students of all ages can easily navigate and manage their time effectively.
  • Parents: TimeBloc assists parents in managing their busy lives by allowing them to coordinate family schedules, track children's activities, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. The app's shared calendar and notification features ensure that everyone in the family stays on the same page, reducing scheduling conflicts and enhancing family communication.
  • Freelancers and Entrepreneurs: If you're a freelancer or entrepreneur with a dynamic schedule, TimeBloc can help you stay organized. You can allocate time for client meetings, project work, administrative tasks, and personal commitments. The app's flexibility lets you adapt to changing priorities and maximize your productivity.
  • Creatives: Artists, writers, and other creative individuals can benefit from TimeBloc's ability to schedule dedicated creative sessions. It helps maintain a consistent creative routine and provides space for brainstorming, ideation, and uninterrupted work periods.
  • Fitness Enthusiasts: TimeBloc can also serve as a fitness planner. It allows you to schedule workouts, meal planning, and self-care routines. By integrating your fitness goals into your daily schedule, you can make healthier choices and stay committed to your well-being.
  • Travelers: Whether you're planning a vacation or coordinating business trips, TimeBloc helps you organize your itinerary, set reminders for flights, accommodations, and sightseeing plans, ensuring a stress-free travel experience.

To-Do List

To-Do List is all about simplifying tasks and reminders. Its straightforward interface allows users to focus on what's essential without getting overwhelmed by complex features.

To-Do List is available on iOS.

Core Features:

  • Easy task entry and management
  • Customizable reminders and notifications
  • Seamless syncing across devices

Pricing:

To-Do List offers both a free version and a premium upgrade for more advanced features.

Best Use Cases:

To-Do List is particularly beneficial for individuals who need a simple and effective way to manage daily tasks, making it suitable for personal and professional use. Its user-friendly features and straightforward design cater to a wide range of users seeking a hassle-free and efficient task management solution.

  • Students and Educators: Students and educators can rely on To-Do List to streamline academic responsibilities. You can create lists for assignments, exams, and study sessions, helping you stay on top of coursework without the complexity of more feature-rich apps.
  • Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners: Entrepreneurs and small business owners appreciate To-Do List's straightforward approach to daily operations. From tracking inventory and handling customer inquiries to scheduling appointments and managing finances, it simplifies essential business tasks, allowing you to focus on growing your venture.
  • Parents and Caregivers: Parents and caregivers find To-Do List invaluable for managing family schedules and household duties. You can create lists for groceries, chores, and children's activities, ensuring that family life runs smoothly without the need for complicated tools.
  • Personal Productivity and Goal Setting: Individuals focusing on personal productivity and goal achievement can benefit from To-Do List. It simplifies setting and tracking goals, habits, and daily routines, making it easier to work towards personal growth and self-improvement.
  • Travelers and Adventurers: Travelers and adventure seekers can utilize To-Do List to create packing lists and travel itineraries. It simplifies the task of organizing travel plans, ensuring that nothing is forgotten and allowing for a stress-free journey.

Choosing the right planner app for your needs

Selecting the right daily planner app is a highly individualized process, contingent on your unique needs, preferences, and daily life. With a wealth of digital tools available, you're likely to find an app tailored precisely to your requirements. Whether you seek visual cues, simplicity, holistic time management, task-centric features, or habit tracking, there's an app suited to your preferences. 

The journey involves exploring diverse options and assessing them against your specific needs. Some prefer visual aids and structured interfaces, while others favor minimalist designs. Apps range from comprehensive solutions that integrate calendars, tasks, goals, and habits to specialized task-oriented tools. 

Ultimately, the goal is to find an app that aligns seamlessly with your workflow and lifestyle, enhancing daily productivity and organization.
That being said, we hope our positioning of the apps based will guide you choosing the right app for your needs, depending on how much speed matters to you and whether you prefer a more minimalistic look or a higher visual appeal.

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