The Best To-Do List Apps for Cross-Platform Users
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Chapter 1: My Journey with To-Do List Apps
There's one tool I can't imagine living without: my to-do list. The reason is straightforward: I tend to forget things easily. For example, I often leave items by the front door to remind myself to take them when I leave, yet I still forget. While this can be mildly frustrating, especially for those around me, it usually leads to minor inconveniences. However, when it comes to my professional tasks, forgetting something could have serious repercussions. Thus, my to-do list app is one of the first things I install on any new device.
As I reflect on my experience, I realize I've recently made a significant change.
Section 1.1: The Decision to Switch Apps
Last week, I took a step I never anticipated: I uninstalled Things from all my Apple devices, including my iPhone, iPads, and various Macs. This year, I committed to exploring new technological landscapes. I wanted to venture beyond the confines of the Apple ecosystem and understand what alternatives exist. What is it like to use Windows laptops? Could Android ever persuade me to leave iOS?
Currently, I'm living a more cross-platform lifestyle than ever before. For instance, over the past few weeks, I've been using both an iPhone and an Android phone, alongside a Lenovo Yoga laptop.
Why Did 'Uninstalled Apps' Suddenly Appear in My iPhone's Cellular Data?
This newfound approach has been enjoyable, but it does present certain challenges regarding the apps I utilize. Specifically, I still haven't found a satisfactory writing app for Windows, I'm uncertain about my calendar solution (more on that later), and I've inadvertently become entrenched in Apple's ecosystem with my to-do list.
Section 1.2: The Limitations of Apple-Specific Apps
I don't rely on Apple's Reminders app for managing tasks. Instead, I've been using Things, a beautifully designed and highly functional software. However, the issue is that it's exclusive to Apple devices. Consequently, if I switch to an Android phone or a Windows laptop, I lose access to my to-do list. This isn't a viable option, especially as I embrace a cross-platform lifestyle.
Thus, I needed to seek an alternative.
Subsection 1.2.1: Discovering TickTick
With countless to-do list apps available, I began searching for a suitable option. One application consistently caught my attention: TickTick. It's the choice of prominent YouTuber MKBHD, and I often noticed it on his phone during reviews of his favorite applications.
If it's good enough for him, it must be worth considering! Moreover, it offers cross-platform support and bears a striking resemblance to Things.
Deleted Apps Are Taking Up Your Storage
TickTick is also quite affordable, costing $27.99 annually, making it a sensible choice given its robust features. It provides all the essential functionalities you need, especially if you’re not seeking the advanced capabilities of Omnifocus. In my first week using it, I found several standout features: comprehensive task management and organization, a full web version, functional sub-tasks, a great calendar view, predictive task entry akin to Fantastical, task templates, separate note entries, proper attachments, a daily completed view, and a handy Safari extension.
There's much more to TickTick, but it effectively allows users to access the features they need without overwhelming them with unnecessary complexity. Transitioning from Things to TickTick has been smooth, and importantly, it hasn't disrupted my daily productivity.
Chapter 2: Evaluating the Pros and Cons of TickTick
While I appreciate the features TickTick offers, it's not without its drawbacks. I don't find any significant shortcomings compared to Things; in fact, TickTick often surpasses it in functionality. There are several features I’ve long desired in Things, including the ability to mark future tasks as complete.
Nonetheless, one noticeable downside of switching to TickTick is its somewhat cluttered interface. This could be attributed to its extensive features and a focus on displaying as much information as possible, which may frustrate those who prefer the clean aesthetic of Things.
Things stands out due to its elegant and minimalist user interface, which prioritizes white space and thoughtful design. In contrast, TickTick's interface can feel overwhelming, with an abundance of text and somewhat outdated icons. While this is not a dealbreaker, I do find myself missing the simplicity of Things.
Conclusion: Which App Should You Choose?
This is a complex question. If I weren't exploring non-Apple products and remained in the Apple ecosystem, I likely wouldn't have transitioned away from Things. Therefore, my recommendation is straightforward: if you primarily use Apple devices, Things is undoubtedly the best choice for task management.
However, for those of us who are cross-platform users or predominantly use non-Apple systems, TickTick provides ample features to enhance your productivity and is well worth the investment.
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