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Overview
Kimai is an open-source time tracking application built with PHP/Symfony. You can self-host it on your own server for free, giving you complete control over your data. It supports multi-user setups with roles, project/activity tracking, and exportable reports.
Strengths
- Completely free and open source — no per-user fees
- Self-hosted means you own your data entirely
- Supports multi-user with roles and permissions
- Active development community with regular updates
Weaknesses
- Requires self-hosting — not a cloud SaaS you can just sign up for
- Setup requires technical knowledge (PHP, MySQL)
- Mobile experience is web-based, no native app
- Fewer integrations than commercial alternatives
Quick info
- Category
- Time Tracking
- Starting price
- Free (self-hosted)
- Free tier
- Fully free
- Open source
- Yes
- Founded
- 2006
Last updated 2026-04-12
Top alternatives to Kimai
Kimai comparisons
Toggl Track vs Kimai
Kimai is the free option; Toggl Track charges $9/user/mo but may offer more polish. Here is how they compare.
Clockify vs Kimai
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Harvest vs Kimai
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RescueTime vs Kimai
Kimai is the free option; RescueTime charges $12/mo but may offer more polish. Here is how they compare.
Timely vs Kimai
Kimai is the free option; Timely charges $9/user/mo but may offer more polish. Here is how they compare.
Everhour vs Kimai
Kimai is the free option; Everhour charges $8.50/user/mo but may offer more polish. Here is how they compare.
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Stay sharp
New time tracking tools, price changes, and honest takes — weekly.