ClickUp Review 2025

Looking for a robust project management solution? Dive into our detailed review of ClickUp to find out if it's the right tool for your team's workflow and objectives

ClickUp is a cloud-based project management and productivity tool designed to be the “one app to replace them all.” It offers a plethora of features ranging from task management to time tracking and document storage, aiming to eliminate the need for multiple platforms for different aspects of project management.

This comprehensive review delves into the various aspects of ClickUp, including its features, pros and cons, user interface, competition, integrations, security, pricing, and history. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether ClickUp is the right choice for your project management needs. For more insights and comparisons with other top project management tools, visit this guide.

Join us as we explore why ClickUp is a leading choice for teams worldwide and how it can transform the way you manage projects.

Pros and Cons

Advantages and Disadvantages

Positive
  • Versatility and Customization
  • User-Friendly Interface
  • Affordable Pricing
  • Robust Security Protocols
  • Comprehensive Feature Set
Negatives
  • Overwhelming Feature Set
  • Mobile App Limitations
  • Learning Curve for Advanced Features
  • Resource Intensity
  • Limited Offline Capabilities

Pros

  • Versatility and Customization:
    One of ClickUp’s most compelling advantages is its adaptability. The platform can be customized to fit various project management methodologies and industry-specific needs. Whether you’re managing a software development project using Agile or overseeing a marketing campaign, ClickUp can be tailored to suit your workflow.
  • User-Friendly Interface:
    ClickUp’s intuitive design ensures a minimal learning curve, allowing teams to get up and running quickly. Its user interface is designed with efficiency in mind, offering features like drag-and-drop, quick-access menus, and keyboard shortcuts that enhance productivity.
  • Affordable Pricing:
    ClickUp offers a generous freemium model that provides a robust set of features at no cost. This is particularly beneficial for small teams or startups operating on a tight budget. Even its paid plans offer a high value-to-cost ratio, making it a cost-effective solution for teams of all sizes.
  • Robust Security Protocols:
    As discussed in the security section, ClickUp employs robust encryption algorithms and is compliant with international data protection standards. This makes it a reliable choice for organizations that prioritize data security.
  • Comprehensive Feature Set:
    ClickUp offers a wide array of features that cover almost every aspect of project management. From task management and time tracking to document storage and team collaboration, it aims to be a one-stop solution for all your project management needs.

Cons

  • Overwhelming Feature Set:
    Ironically, one of ClickUp’s strengths can also be a weakness. The platform’s extensive feature set, while generally an advantage, can be overwhelming for users who require a more straightforward, less feature-rich solution. This could lead to a paradox of choice, where the sheer number of options becomes a hindrance rather than a help.
  • Mobile App Limitations:
    While ClickUp’s mobile app is robust and allows for project management on the go, it still lacks some of the functionalities available in the desktop version. This can be a limitation for users who are heavily reliant on mobile devices for their work.
  • Learning Curve for Advanced Features:
    Although ClickUp is designed to be user-friendly, mastering its advanced features and customizations can require a significant time investment. This could be a deterrent for teams looking for a plug-and-play solution.
  • Resource Intensity:
    Some users have reported that ClickUp can be resource-intensive, particularly when running multiple integrations or handling large projects. This could lead to slower load times and reduced performance on less powerful hardware.
  • Limited Offline Capabilities:
    While ClickUp offers a comprehensive cloud-based solution, its offline capabilities are somewhat limited. This could be a drawback for teams that require access to their project management tool in environments with unreliable internet connectivity.
ClickUp list view
ClickUp list view

Software specification

ClickUp’s Core Features

Task Management: The Backbone of ClickUp

  • Assigning Tasks: ClickUp offers a highly intuitive interface for task assignment. You can allocate tasks to individual team members or groups, set deadlines, and even define task priorities, ensuring a streamlined workflow.

  • Task Dependencies: This feature is particularly useful for complex projects that require tasks to be completed in a specific sequence. Task dependencies ensure that team members follow a logical workflow, thereby minimizing bottlenecks and delays.

  • Prioritization: With functionalities like tags, custom statuses, and priority flags, ClickUp offers a nuanced approach to task prioritization. This ensures that critical tasks receive immediate attention, thereby optimizing resource allocation.

Time Tracking: How ClickUp Keeps You Accountable

  • Built-in Timer: ClickUp comes with an integrated timer that allows you to track the time spent on individual tasks. This is invaluable for performance analysis and future project estimations.

  • Third-Party Integrations: The platform also supports integration with popular time tracking tools like Toggl, enabling you to leverage the best of both worlds.

Document Management: A Paperless Office

  • Document Storage: ClickUp offers secure cloud storage options for your documents, making it easier to maintain a paperless office environment.

  • Version Control: The platform also supports version control, allowing you to track changes and revert to previous versions when necessary.

Collaboration: Teamwork Made Easy

  • Chat and Communication: ClickUp incorporates chat functionalities, enabling real-time communication within the platform. This eliminates the need for external messaging apps, thereby centralizing all project-related communication.

  • Shared Boards and Calendars: The platform offers shared boards and calendars that facilitate collaborative planning and tracking. Team members can update their status, add comments, and even attach files, making it a one-stop solution for all your project management needs.

Views in ClickUp
Views in ClickUp

User Experience

User Interface and Experience

Interface and Design: Aesthetics Meets Functionality

ClickUp’s interface is a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality, designed to minimize cognitive load and enhance user efficiency. The platform’s clean, intuitive design is immediately apparent, with a focus on simplicity that belies the robust capabilities beneath. The use of color-coded labels not only aids in quick visual identification but also adds a layer of personalization that makes the interface feel unique to each user.

Drag-and-drop functionalities are seamlessly integrated throughout the platform, allowing users to effortlessly organize tasks, documents, and timelines. This feature is particularly beneficial for teams that need to adapt quickly to changing project scopes or deadlines. Quick-access menus and customizable dashboards further streamline navigation, ensuring that all essential tools and information are always within easy reach. The overall design philosophy of ClickUp emphasizes reducing friction in user interactions, making task management both visually engaging and operationally efficient.

Mobile Experience: Managing Projects on the Go

In today’s dynamic work environment, the ability to manage projects remotely is crucial. ClickUp’s mobile application, available for both iOS and Android devices, exemplifies the platform’s commitment to flexibility and accessibility. The mobile app retains most of the core functionalities of the desktop version, ensuring a seamless transition between devices.

Users can track tasks, communicate with team members, and update project timelines from anywhere, making it an indispensable tool for remote and hybrid teams. The app’s interface is optimized for mobile use, with intuitive touch controls and responsive design that ensures usability on smaller screens. Notifications are real-time, allowing for immediate action on important updates and deadlines. This ensures that productivity is maintained regardless of location, turning any moment into an opportunity for progress.

Customization: Tailoring ClickUp to Your Needs

One of ClickUp’s most compelling features is its unparalleled level of customization. This adaptability is what sets it apart from many other project management tools on the market. Users can create custom fields, statuses, and workflows that align precisely with their project requirements. This means that whether your team follows Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, or a hybrid methodology, ClickUp can be tailored to fit seamlessly.

Custom views allow users to visualize projects in the way that makes the most sense for their workflow. For instance, List View offers a detailed breakdown of tasks, while Board View provides a Kanban-style layout ideal for visualizing progress. Gantt View is perfect for timeline management, and Calendar View helps in tracking deadlines and schedules. Additionally, the ability to create templates for recurring tasks and projects saves time and ensures consistency across similar workflows.

ClickUp also offers a wide range of integrations with other popular tools such as Slack, Google Drive, and Trello, further enhancing its utility and ensuring that it fits smoothly into your existing tech stack. This level of customization ensures that ClickUp is not just a tool, but a comprehensive solution that evolves with your team’s needs.

Integrations and Compatibility

How ClickUp Integrates with Other Software

Popular Integrations: Enhancing ClickUp’s Versatility

ClickUp is designed to be a comprehensive work management solution, but it also recognizes the importance of integrating with other essential tools that teams rely on daily. This flexibility allows users to enhance their ClickUp experience without disrupting established workflows. Here’s a deeper dive into how ClickUp’s integrations improve its functionality and streamline project management.

Slack: Enhancing Communication

Slack integration is one of the standout features that significantly boosts ClickUp’s utility. By connecting ClickUp with Slack, teams can streamline their communication and task management processes. This integration allows users to receive ClickUp notifications directly within Slack, ensuring that important updates and task changes are never missed. Additionally, tasks can be created and assigned directly from Slack conversations, reducing the need to switch between platforms and thereby enhancing productivity. This seamless communication channel ensures that team members stay informed and collaborative, regardless of where they are working from.

Google Drive: Streamlining Document Management

Integration with Google Drive is another critical feature that makes ClickUp a versatile tool for document management. This integration allows users to attach Google Drive files directly to their tasks in ClickUp, ensuring that all relevant documents are easily accessible and organized within the project management platform. Whether it’s sharing a presentation, collaborating on a document, or storing essential project files, the Google Drive integration ensures that everything is conveniently located in one place. This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of losing important information across multiple platforms.

GitHub: Bridging Project Management and Code Repositories

For development teams, the GitHub integration is particularly valuable. By linking GitHub with ClickUp, teams can seamlessly connect their project management activities with their code repositories. This integration allows users to attach GitHub pull requests, commits, and branches directly to tasks and projects in ClickUp. Consequently, team members can track the progress of development work alongside other project activities, providing a comprehensive view of the project’s status. This holistic approach ensures better coordination between development and project management teams, fostering a more integrated workflow.

Other Notable Integrations

Beyond Slack, Google Drive, and GitHub, ClickUp offers integrations with a multitude of other platforms, including:

  • Zoom: Schedule and join Zoom meetings directly from ClickUp tasks.
  • Trello: Import Trello boards into ClickUp to consolidate your project management efforts.
  • Jira: Migrate tasks from Jira to ClickUp to centralize your project management.
  • Microsoft Teams: Receive ClickUp notifications and manage tasks within Microsoft Teams.

These integrations ensure that ClickUp can fit seamlessly into your existing tech stack, providing flexibility and enhancing productivity by bringing all your essential tools into one unified platform.

API Access for Custom Solutions

For organizations with unique needs that go beyond ClickUp’s standard integrations, the platform offers robust API access. This allows development teams to create custom integrations and functionalities tailored specifically to their project requirements. The API is well-documented, making it accessible even for teams that may not have extensive development resources. With API access, organizations can:

  • Automate workflows: Create scripts that automate repetitive tasks, saving time and reducing errors.
  • Build custom dashboards: Develop personalized dashboards that display the most relevant project metrics and KPIs.
  • Integrate with niche tools: Connect ClickUp with industry-specific tools that are critical to your operations.

The ability to develop custom solutions ensures that ClickUp can evolve alongside your organization, adapting to new challenges and requirements as they arise.

ClickUp’s extensive range of integrations significantly enhances its versatility and utility, making it a powerful tool for teams across various industries. By connecting with popular platforms like Slack, Google Drive, and GitHub, ClickUp ensures that users can maintain their preferred workflows while benefiting from the robust project management features it offers. Furthermore, API access allows for the creation of tailored solutions, ensuring that ClickUp can meet the unique needs of any organization. Highlighting these integrations not only showcases ClickUp’s flexibility but also optimizes your content for SEO by addressing the key functionalities that potential users are searching for.

Compare with Others

Alternatives to ClickUp

Asana: A Close Competitor

  • Strengths: Asana (full review) is often considered a close competitor to ClickUp due to its comprehensive feature set, which includes task management, workflow automation, and team collaboration. It also offers robust integrations with other popular tools like Slack and Google Drive.
  • Weaknesses: Asana’s pricing can be on the higher side, especially for small teams or startups. Additionally, while it offers many features, it lacks the level of customization that ClickUp provides, which can be a limitation for teams with specific workflow requirements.

Trello: Simplicity Over Features

  • Strengths: Trello (full review) is known for its simplicity and ease of use. It employs a Kanban-style approach to project management, making it ideal for teams that require a straightforward, drag-and-drop interface. It’s particularly useful for small projects or teams new to project management.
  • Weaknesses: Trello’s simplicity comes at the cost of advanced features. While it offers basic task management and team collaboration, it lacks the comprehensive feature set and customization options that platforms like ClickUp and Asana provide.

Monday.com: A Different Approach

  • Strengths: monday.com (full review) offers a unique approach to project management with its highly visual and customizable boards. It also provides automation features that can streamline repetitive tasks, thereby increasing efficiency.
  • Weaknesses: Monday.com’s pricing is relatively high, making it less accessible for smaller teams or organizations with budget constraints. Additionally, the platform’s unique approach may require a learning curve for teams accustomed to more traditional project management tools.

    FEATURES

Task Management

Comprehensive

Comprehensive

Comprehensive

Basic

Customization

High

Moderate

High

Low

Ease of Use

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

High

Pricing

$5/user

$10.99/user

$8/user

$9.99/user

Integrations

Extensive

Extensive

Extensive

Moderate

Security

Robust

Robust

Robust

Moderate

Mobile App

Team Collaboration

Workflow Automation

In summary, while ClickUp offers a comprehensive and customizable project management solution, alternatives like Asana, Trello, and Monday.com each have their unique strengths and weaknesses. Your choice will ultimately depend on your team’s specific needs, the complexity of your projects, and your budget constraints. By considering these factors and weighing them against the features and limitations of each platform, you can make a more informed decision that aligns with your organizational objectives.

Read more about the best project management software

Pricing

Free vs Paid

Free vs Paid: What Do You Really Need?

ClickUp offers a range of plans tailored to different user needs, from individuals to large enterprises. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the right plan for your team.

Free Forever: Best for Personal Use

The Free Forever plan is ideal for individuals or small teams starting out. It offers unlimited tasks, free plan members, and features like real-time chat, Kanban boards, sprint management, and collaborative docs, all at no cost.

Unlimited: Best for Small Teams

Priced at $7 per user per month (billed annually), the Unlimited plan is perfect for small teams needing more storage and advanced features. This plan includes unlimited storage, integrations, dashboards, Gantt charts, and custom fields, enhancing collaboration and project management.

Business: Best for Mid-Sized Teams

At $12 per user per month (billed annually), the Business plan offers advanced project management tools for mid-sized teams. Features include Google SSO, advanced automations, time tracking, workload management, and goal folders, providing comprehensive tools for complex projects.

Enterprise: Best for Large Teams

The Enterprise plan is tailored for large organizations with complex needs. It includes advanced security features, unlimited custom roles, team sharing for spaces, MSA & HIPAA compliance, and dedicated customer support. Pricing is customized, and users can contact sales for a demo.

Selecting the right ClickUp plan depends on your team’s size and needs. The Free Forever plan is great for beginners, while the Unlimited and Business plans cater to growing and mid-sized teams with advanced features. For large organizations, the Enterprise plan offers extensive customization and security. Evaluating these options will help you maximize the benefits of ClickUp’s powerful project management tools.

For more detailed information, visit ClickUp’s Pricing Page

What can you find in the paid version?

  • Unlimited storage, integrations, dashboards, and Gantt charts
  • Adding guests with different permissions
  • Email in ClickUp
ClickUp pricing
ClickUp pricing

Security and Compliance

What about security?

Security is a multifaceted issue that extends beyond mere encryption. It encompasses a range of practices and protocols designed to safeguard data integrity, confidentiality, and availability. ClickUp’s comprehensive approach to security, from robust encryption and regular backups to compliance with international standards, makes it a reliable choice for organizations that prioritize data protection. Whether you’re a small business owner concerned about client data or a large enterprise with stringent regulatory requirements, ClickUp’s security features are designed to meet a broad spectrum of needs.

  • In-Transit and At-Rest Encryption
  • Regular Backups and Redundancy: Data loss can be catastrophic for any organization
  • Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): For an added layer of security
  • Fully compliant with GDPR
  • HIPAA Compliance
  • Working towards achieving ISO 27001
  • Working on providing options for data sovereignty

Data Encryption and Backup

  • In-Transit and At-Rest Encryption: ClickUp employs robust encryption algorithms to secure your data. It uses SSL/TLS encryption for data in transit, meaning that the data packets sent between your device and ClickUp’s servers are encrypted. For data at rest, the platform uses AES-256 encryption, one of the most secure encryption methods available, ensuring that your stored data is safeguarded against unauthorized access.

  • Regular Backups and Redundancy: Data loss can be catastrophic for any organization. ClickUp mitigates this risk by performing regular backups of your data. These backups are stored in geographically dispersed data centers, providing an additional layer of security through redundancy. In the event of a system failure or data corruption, these backups can be used to restore your data, minimizing downtime and loss of critical information.

  • Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): For an added layer of security, ClickUp offers Two-Factor Authentication. This requires users to provide two forms of identification before gaining access to their account, thereby reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

GDPR and Other Compliance Standards

  • General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): ClickUp is fully compliant with GDPR, the European Union’s data protection regulation. This ensures that the platform adheres to the stringent data protection requirements concerning the collection, storage, and use of personal data.

  • HIPAA Compliance: For healthcare organizations or any entity dealing with medical data, ClickUp offers a HIPAA-compliant solution. This ensures that sensitive healthcare information is handled in accordance with U.S. regulations, providing peace of mind for organizations that require this level of data protection.

  • ISO Certifications: ClickUp is working towards achieving ISO 27001 certification, a globally recognized standard for information security management systems (ISMS). This will further attest to the platform’s commitment to implementing best practices in data security.

  • Data Sovereignty: Understanding the importance of data residency for global organizations, ClickUp is working on providing options for data sovereignty. This will allow organizations to choose where their data is stored, ensuring compliance with local or industry-specific regulations.

The Genesis of ClickUp

The Company and Product Evolution

The Company Behind ClickUp

ClickUp, developed by Mango Technologies, Inc., was founded in 2017 by Zeb Evans and Alex Yurkowski. The company, originally headquartered in San Francisco, moved to San Diego, California, in January 2020. Mango Technologies quickly gained traction due to ClickUp’s robust features and user-friendly interface, attracting over 10 million users and 2 million teams globally by 2024. The company’s mission is to enhance productivity across various industries by continually improving and expanding ClickUp’s capabilities.

Evolution of ClickUp: From Inception to Now

Since its inception, ClickUp has transformed from a simple task management tool into a comprehensive project management platform. Here’s a timeline of its significant milestones:

  • 2017: ClickUp was launched as an internal tool before being made publicly available as a cloud-based collaboration and productivity software.
  • 2020: The company secured $35 million in Series A funding in June, followed by another $100 million in December, reaching a $1 billion valuation. This year also saw the addition of collaborative features like whiteboards and advanced document management tools.
  • 2021: ClickUp raised $400 million in Series C funding at a $4 billion valuation. The platform expanded to Europe with a new office in Dublin and also opened an Asia-Pacific headquarters in Sydney.
  • 2022: The acquisition of SlapDash bolstered ClickUp’s capabilities with unified search tools. Additionally, the platform introduced a Whiteboard feature to support hybrid work environments.
  • 2023: ClickUp launched its AI-powered tool, ClickUp AI, later rebranded to ClickUp Brain in January 2024, offering advanced task prediction and automation capabilities.
  • 2024: Recognized as one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies for the second consecutive year, ClickUp continued to innovate with the introduction of ClickUp Brain, the first AI neural network designed to optimize workplace productivity by consolidating organizational knowledge.

Impact and Recognition

ClickUp’s rapid growth and commitment to innovation have earned it numerous accolades. In 2024, it was listed among Forbes’ America’s Best Startup Employers, highlighting its vibrant, growth-oriented work culture. The company’s focus on creating a comprehensive productivity platform has led to its widespread adoption by prominent organizations like Spotify, IBM, and Logitech.

ClickUp’s journey from a basic task management tool to an all-encompassing productivity platform demonstrates its adaptability and commitment to meeting evolving user needs. The continuous addition of innovative features and strategic expansions underscores ClickUp’s position as a leader in the project management software industry. By integrating advanced tools and maintaining a user-centric approach, ClickUp remains dedicated to enhancing productivity and streamlining workflows for teams worldwide.

Conclusion

Final thoughts

In reviewing ClickUp for 2025, it’s clear that this project management software stands out due to its comprehensive feature set, user-friendly interface, and robust customization options. ClickUp offers an extensive range of functionalities, including task management, time tracking, document collaboration, and advanced AI capabilities, making it a versatile tool for diverse industries.

ClickUp excels in several areas:

  • Features: The platform provides a rich set of features suitable for various project management methodologies, from Agile to Waterfall.
  • User Interface and Experience: ClickUp’s clean and intuitive design minimizes cognitive load, enhancing productivity and ease of use.
  • Integrations: Seamless integration with popular tools like Slack, Google Drive, and GitHub ensures that users can maintain their preferred workflows without disruption.
  • Security: Advanced security features, especially in the Enterprise plan, make ClickUp a reliable choice for organizations with stringent security requirements.
  • Pricing: With a range of plans, including a generous free version and scalable options for growing teams, ClickUp provides excellent value for money.
  • History and Evolution: Since its founding in 2017, ClickUp has continuously evolved, incorporating user feedback and industry trends to stay at the forefront of project management solutions.

Final Thoughts

Is ClickUp a good choice for project management software in 2025? Absolutely. Its flexibility, extensive feature set, and commitment to innovation make it suitable for teams of all sizes and industries. Small teams and startups can benefit from the Free Forever plan, which offers substantial capabilities without any cost. Growing teams will find the Unlimited plan to be a valuable upgrade, while mid-sized teams can leverage the advanced features of the Business plan for comprehensive project management. For large enterprises, the Enterprise plan provides the necessary security and customization to handle complex project requirements.

ClickUp is particularly well-suited for teams looking to centralize their work processes within a single platform. Its adaptability makes it ideal for diverse industries, including software development, marketing, human resources, and more. The platform’s ability to integrate with various third-party tools and its continuous enhancement of features, such as the introduction of ClickUp Brain, underscore its dedication to improving productivity and efficiency.

For those seeking an all-in-one solution that can scale with their needs, ClickUp is a compelling choice. To explore more about the best project management software options and see how ClickUp compares to other leading tools, visit this comprehensive guide.

By considering ClickUp’s extensive capabilities and evaluating them against your specific project management needs, you can determine whether it’s the right fit for your team and organizational goals.

Have more questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ClickUp?

ClickUp is a cloud-based project management and productivity tool that offers a wide range of features, including task management, time tracking, document storage, and team collaboration. It aims to be a comprehensive solution for teams and organizations of all sizes.

How does ClickUp compare to other project management tools like Asana and Trello?

It offers a balance between complexity and user-friendliness, with more customization options than Asana and a broader feature set than Trello.
Check out our top project management software list

Is ClickUp suitable for small teams or startups?

Absolutely, the platform provides a freemium model with a robust set of features at no cost, making it an affordable option for smaller teams.

What security measures are in place?

The platform employs robust encryption for data both in transit and at rest, performs regular backups, and complies with international data protection standards like GDPR.

Is there a mobile version available?

Yes, a mobile application is available for both iOS and Android devices. However, some functionalities available on the desktop version may be limited on mobile.

Does ClickUp offer workflow automation?

Yes, workflow automation is available to streamline repetitive tasks, thereby increasing efficiency and reducing the risk of human error.

What kind of customization options does ClickUp offer?

ClickUp allows for high levels of customization, including the ability to create custom fields, statuses, and workflows. This makes it adaptable to various project management methodologies and specific organizational needs.

How does the platform handle document management?

Secure cloud storage options and version control features are available, facilitating a paperless office environment and document collaboration.

Is ClickUp suitable for remote teams?

Yes, features like chat functionalities and shared boards and calendars are designed to facilitate remote work, making it a good fit for geographically dispersed teams.

Are there any limitations?

While the platform offers a comprehensive feature set, it can be overwhelming for those who require a simpler solution. Additionally, mastering advanced features may require a time investment.

Logo - Header

Copyright © 2017 - 2024 work-management.org Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

Work-Management.org is dedicated to empowering professionals and businesses in making well-informed decisions about work management tools and software. Our platform provides comprehensive information on a diverse array of products and services in the realm of project management, task management, CRM systems, and more. While we ensure the data is up-to-date and insightful, it’s important to note that certain details, including but not limited to prices, features, and special offers, are sourced directly from our industry partners. These aspects are dynamic and subject to change at any time without prior notice. Our content, grounded in thorough research and expertise, is intended to guide and inform your decision-making process. However, it does not serve as a substitute for legal or professional advice. As industry experts, we strive to present the most accurate, relevant, and helpful information to assist you in navigating the complex world of work management software.

Work Management
Logo
Skip to content