Best Time Tracking & Workforce Management Software (2026)
Time tracking software ranges from simple clock-in/out apps to full workforce management platforms with scheduling, labour forecasting, and payroll integration. The category is dominated by tools built for hourly workforces — retail, hospitality, construction, healthcare, and field services.
The four tools reviewed here each have a clear focus: Buddy Punch excels at clock-in verification and fraud prevention. Deputy offers the most complete workforce management feature set. 7shifts is purpose-built for restaurants. When I Work is the simplest and cheapest option for basic scheduling.
Last updated: March 2026. Based on verified features, pricing, and user ratings.
| # | Tool | Rating | Starting Price | Free Plan | Free Trial | Best For | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Buddy Punch
Online time clock and employee scheduling platform with GPS tracking, multiple punch methods, PTO management,... |
4.8/5 | $4/mo | No | Yes | SMB | Visit → |
| 2 |
7shifts
Restaurant-focused workforce management platform with scheduling, time clocking, tip management, and labour compliance tools. |
4.7/5 | $30/mo | Yes | Yes | SMB | Visit → |
| 3 |
Deputy
Shift scheduling, time tracking, and workforce management platform for hourly and shift-based teams across retail,... |
4.6/5 | $4/mo | No | Yes | SMB | Visit → |
| 4 |
When I Work
Employee scheduling and time tracking app for small businesses with shift-based workforces, known for its... |
4.5/5 | $2/mo | No | Yes | SMB | Visit → |
How we chose these tools
Tools are ranked by overall rating, which combines user reviews from G2 and Capterra with our assessment of features, pricing, and ease of use. We only include tools with verified data. Pricing and features are checked against official sources. Learn more about our methodology.
1. Buddy Punch
Online time clock and employee scheduling platform with GPS tracking, multiple punch methods, PTO management, and optional payroll for SMBs.
2. 7shifts
Restaurant-focused workforce management platform with scheduling, time clocking, tip management, and labour compliance tools.
3. Deputy
Shift scheduling, time tracking, and workforce management platform for hourly and shift-based teams across retail, hospitality, and healthcare.
4. When I Work
Employee scheduling and time tracking app for small businesses with shift-based workforces, known for its simple mobile-first experience.
How we evaluate tools
Our ratings combine verified user reviews from G2 and Capterra with hands-on feature analysis. Pricing is checked against official sources. We may earn a commission through affiliate links, but this never influences our rankings or recommendations. Read our full methodology.
Download the Recruitment Software Shortlist
130 tools compared in one spreadsheet — ratings, pricing, free plans, and categories. Import into your own evaluation process.
Free download. No spam. Includes pricing, ratings, and free plan data for 130 tools.
Your spreadsheet is ready
Download the CSV now — 130 tools with ratings, pricing, and free plans.
Explore next:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is workforce management software?
Workforce management software handles employee time tracking (clock in/out), shift scheduling, attendance monitoring, PTO/leave management, and labour cost forecasting. Most platforms export timesheets to payroll providers like QuickBooks, Gusto, or ADP. Some include built-in payroll as an add-on.
How much does time tracking software cost?
Time tracking tools typically cost $2-$11 per user per month. Some have base fees on top ($19/month for Buddy Punch). 7shifts offers a free plan for single-location restaurants. Deputy and When I Work start at $4-$4.50/user. The cheapest option depends on your team size — base fees become negligible with larger teams.
Do I need a time clock if I already use payroll software?
If your employees are hourly and you need accurate time records, yes. Payroll software processes pay but doesn't track hours. Time tracking tools capture when employees work, verify locations (GPS/geofencing), and export approved timesheets to payroll. The two tools complement each other.
Which time tracking tool is best for construction or field teams?
Buddy Punch is the strongest option for field teams, with GPS tracking, geofencing, facial recognition, and IP locking — features specifically designed to prevent time theft at remote job sites. Deputy is a good alternative with simpler GPS tracking. Avoid restaurant-specific tools like 7shifts for non-restaurant field work.
Head-to-Head Comparisons
Detailed side-by-side comparisons of popular tools from this guide:
Still deciding?
Compare any two tools side-by-side or take our quiz for a personalised recommendation.