Things 3 vs OmniFocus
Both are mature native task managers for Mac, iPhone and iPad. Things is simple and calm: Today, Upcoming, Anytime and Someday lists, with projects and areas, sold once per platform. OmniFocus is built for complex lives, with perspectives, defer dates, a weekly review and deep automation, and it is sold as a subscription.
Facts checked · No paid placements
Things 3
The task manager that feels like paper, only smarter.
OmniFocus
Industrial-strength GTD for complex lives.
Pick by what you need
Choose Things 3 if
- You want a clear daily list without much setup.
- You prefer to pay once.
- You value design and speed over configuration.
Choose OmniFocus if
- You juggle many projects and want custom views of them.
- You follow GTD and do a weekly review.
- You want to script your task manager.
The facts, side by side
| Fact | Things 3 | OmniFocus |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $49.99 (one-time, Mac App Store) | Subscription |
| Developer | Cultured Code | The Omni Group |
| Mac App Store | Yes | Yes |
| Homebrew cask | – | omnifocus |
| Open source | No | No |
| Requires | macOS 13.3 or later | macOS 18.2 or later |
| App Store version | 3.24.1 | 4.9.3 |
| Last App Store update | September 2026 | October 2026 |
Facts checked . Prices can change; each developer's site is the final word.
Things 3 or OmniFocus?
Is Things 3 better than OmniFocus?
Neither is better for everyone. Both are mature native task managers for Mac, iPhone and iPad. Things is simple and calm: Today, Upcoming, Anytime and Someday lists, with projects and areas, sold once per platform. OmniFocus is built for complex lives, with perspectives, defer dates, a weekly review and deep automation, and it is sold as a subscription.
How much does Things 3 cost?
Things 3 costs $49.99 as a one-time purchase on the Mac App Store.
Is OmniFocus free?
No. OmniFocus is sold as a subscription; the Mac App Store download is free and the subscription is bought inside the app.
What else is like Things 3 and OmniFocus?
Other productivity apps on MacWorthy worth a look are BusyCal (subscription), Raycast (free + pro) and Fantastical (subscription).