OmniFocus Review 2024: App Features, Pricing, Pros & Cons

Feeling overwhelmed with all the tasks and trying to keep everything in order? Well, say hello to OmniFocus, the ultimate task management app here to save the day!

In this detailed OmniFocus review, we’ll dive deep into what this app can do and how it can boost your productivity to new heights.

We’ll cover everything you need to know – from pricing options to all the key features and pros and cons. So, by the end, you’ll have all the info you need to make a smart decision.

OmniFocus Review 2024: Is OmniFocus 3 Any Good?

As you will learn in our OmniFocus review, OmniFocus 3 is a great task management app for organization. The user-friendly interface lets you create and organize tasks, set due dates, and track progress. So, if you want to increase your productivity and become more organized, consider using this app.

Now, let’s take a closer look at OmniFocus 3 and what it offers.

This task management app is one of the best task management software. It’s designed to help you manage your to-do lists, projects, and tasks efficiently.

It’s available on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, ensuring seamless synchronization across your devices.

Overall, it’s a really powerful task manager.

You can create tasks and even break them down into smaller sub-tasks, which is handy for tackling big projects step by step. And you can add due dates and custom tags to keep everything organized.

Adding tasks is a breeze! You can set priorities, add notes or files, and it’ll remind you of important deadlines too.

One cool feature is the Forecast view. It lays out your upcoming tasks and events like a calendar so that you can plan your days smartly.

But we’ll be honest; it might be too much if you need basic task management. It takes some time to get used to it compared to simpler apps.

However, if you’re serious about being super organized and boosting productivity, OmniFocus 3 is fantastic. It works on different devices and offers top-notch features.

So, while it may have a learning curve, it’s totally worth it!

OmniFocus Pricing Plans

First of all, how much does OmniFocus cost? Let’s first review OmniFocus prices:

How Much Does OmniFocus Cost for Nonprofits?

If you’re a student, faculty, or staff member at a school or college, you can get a discount on Omni applications! That means you can use these apps at a lower price if it’s for your personal use.

You can download the apps directly from their website or register them with your Omni Account if you get them from the App Store.

Unfortunately, this discount isn’t available for resellers or nonprofit organizations. You can still buy the apps from their regular store if you don’t qualify for the educational discount.
 

Are There Any OmniFocus Coupon Codes or Promo Discount Vouchers?

As of now, we don’t have information about any specific coupon codes or promo vouchers. But you can regularly check their website or social media pages for ongoing promotions. They sometimes offer deals and discounts, so it’s worth checking regularly.

We’ll let you know if we come across any coupon codes in the future!

OmniFocus Free vs Paid: What’s the Difference?

So, with OmniFocus, there’s no free version, but you can try it out before committing to a purchase. They offer a two-week trial period for their Mac and iOS apps. Now, when it comes to buying OmniFocus, it might get a bit confusing.

They have two options: a subscription plan or buying the apps individually.

With the subscription plan, you pay either $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year. This gives you access to the latest Pro version of OmniFocus on all supported platforms, and you can even use it on the web. It auto-renews until you cancel, and it’s perfect if you want the most up-to-date features.

Alternatively, you can buy the apps individually for a one-time fee. But here’s the catch: you must choose between the Standard and Pro versions.

For Mac only, the Standard version costs $49.99, and the Pro version costs $99.99. The Standard version costs $49.99 for iPhones and iPad, while the Pro is $74.99.

The Standard version includes all 3x updates and future major upgrades at a discount. It’s a one-time purchase, so you own that version forever.

You can also save up to 50% with upgrade discounts if you want to get future versions.

The Pro version, on the other hand, offers more advanced features like custom perspectives, focus mode, and AppleScript support. So, it’s for users who need more power and customization.

Now, if you’re using OmniFocus for the Web, there’s a separate subscription plan of $4.99 per month. It’s a web companion access for existing non-subscription OmniFocus customers.

Regarding features, both the Standard and Pro versions offer useful tools like Inbox for adding quick actions, Projects for organizing your tasks, Tags for categorizing them, and Forecast to plan your upcoming tasks.

Both versions also have a Review feature to keep things on track, and you can set up repeating actions for things you do regularly.

The Pro version, though, comes with extra perks like a custom sidebar for organizing your perspectives, a custom home screen on iOS, a Forecast tag for better organization, and custom perspectives to view your data uniquely.

Overall, OmniFocus is a bit pricier than some competitors, but it offers powerful features to keep you organized and on top of your tasks.

Just choose the version that suits your needs and workflow best!

OmniFocus Overview: What is OmniFocus & What is the OmniFocus App Used for?

Picture this: effortlessly organizing your projects, setting repeating reminders for essential tasks, and customizing your workflow to suit your unique style. But is it all smooth sailing? That’s what OmniFocus does for people!

The Omni Group, a software company focusing on Apple devices like macOS, iOS, and watchOS, made this super sophisticated task management app in 2008. So, it’s been around for a while.

People really love it because it’s simple and feature-rich. Basically, OmniFocus helps you keep track of all your to-do lists and tasks.  It could be a great fit if you’re an Apple user and follow the “Getting Things Done” (GTD) method.

GTD is a popular way of organizing tasks, and OmniFocus is built to work well with it.

The app has different versions, and the latest one is called OmniFocus 3. It’s pretty powerful, allowing you to prioritize and organize your tasks in various ways. You can customize it to show only the tasks that match certain criteria according to the GTD method.

But here’s the catch: OmniFocus is only available for iOS and macOS devices. So, if you use Android or Windows, it won’t work for you. Also, it doesn’t support collaboration with others, meaning you can’t assign tasks to teammates or share projects with them.

To access OmniFocus on the web, you’ll need a subscription, which costs $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year. But remember, the web app is meant to be used alongside the Mac and iPhone apps, so it’s not very useful if you don’t have an Apple device.

OmniFocus could be a fantastic to-do app if you’re all about Apple devices, love the GTD method, and don’t need collaboration features.

However, other apps might suit your needs better if you’re looking for something more cross-platform or collaborative.
 

OmniFocus for the Web

This is a web companion for existing OmniFocus users. It’s not a standalone app and can’t be used on mobile devices. You need a subscription to access the web app, but it’s mainly designed to be used alongside the Mac and iPhone apps.
 

OmniFocus Mac

This version is for macOS devices. It’s a great task management app with rich features limited to the Apple ecosystem.

Users praise the OmniFocus Mac’s simplicity and support for the “Getting Things Done” method, but it doesn’t offer collaboration features.
 

OmniFocus iOS

This version is designed for iPhones and iPads, so it’s also part of the Apple ecosystem. It aligns well with the GTD method, allowing you to organize and prioritize your tasks effectively. However, like the Mac version, the OmniFocus iPad Pro lacks collaboration features.

OmniFocus Features List

The main features of OmniFocus include:

• Inbox

• Quick Entry

• Free, Encrypted Syncing

• Projects

• Tags

• Notes

• Review

• Forecast

• Siri Integration

• Repeating Actions

• Batch Editing

• Notifications

• Light and Dark Modes

• Custom Sidebar

• Custom Home Screen

• Forecast Tag

• Custom Perspectives

• Focus Mode

• Apple Script

Now, let’s look closely at each feature:

1. Inbox

First up, we have the inbox. It’s like a place to quickly jot down any tasks or ideas that come to your mind.

So, imagine you’re in the middle of something, and suddenly you remember you need to buy groceries. Just pop it in the inbox; you won’t forget it later.
 

2. Quick Entry

This nifty feature lets you create new tasks without leaving your app. You press a special button, and a little window pops up where you can type in the task and save it. It’s a real time-saver!
 

3. Free, Encrypted Syncing

OmniFocus also has free, encrypted syncing so that all your tasks get synchronized between your Apple devices for free, and they keep your data safe and private. When you add or complete a task on your iPhone, it also appears on your Mac.
 

4. Projects

Now, let’s talk about projects. They’re like folders for your tasks. You know how you keep your school assignments or work projects organized in separate folders?

OmniFocus lets you do the same with your tasks, making it easy to find stuff.
 

5. Tags

Another great feature is tags. You can use these little labels to categorize your tasks. For example, you can tag tasks with “Home” or “Work” or add priority tags like “Urgent” or “Low Priority.” This way, you can quickly filter and find tasks that are related.
 

6. Notes

Adding notes is super helpful too. Sometimes tasks need more details, right? So, you can write extra information or attach pictures and audio to remind yourself what needs to be done.
 

7. Review

OmniFocus helps you stay on top of your tasks by periodically reminding you to review and update your projects and actions. Marking projects as reviewed ensures nothing slips through the cracks.
 

8. Forecast

The forecast is like a mini-calendar inside the app. It shows you all your tasks and events in one place. So, if you have a meeting or an important deadline, you can check it out easily and plan your day.
 

9. Siri Integration

Now, get this! OmniFocus has Siri integration. You can tell Siri to add a task for you. Just say something like, “Hey Siri, remind me to call my mother tomorrow.” It will magically appear in your task list.
 

10. Repeating Actions

This feature is a cool time-saver. Let’s say you have to water your plants every Monday. You can set that task to repeat weekly, and OmniFocus will remind you every Monday.
 

11. Batch Editing

Batch editing helps you make changes to multiple tasks at once. Imagine you have a bunch of tasks for a project, and you need to give them all a due date. You can select them all and add the due date together.
 

12. Notifications

Notifications keep you on track. OmniFocus can send you reminders for due tasks or when you’re at a specific place so you won’t miss any important deadlines or tasks.
 

13. Light and Dark Modes

Oh, and one more thing! You can switch between Light and Dark Modes. If you prefer a bright or darker look, you can choose what’s most comfortable for your eyes.

Now, let’s review some of the pro features.
 

14. Custom Sidebar

The custom sidebar lets you sort your perspectives (those different ways of viewing your tasks) just how you want. So, you can arrange them in a super handy way for quick access.
 

15. Custom Home Screen

This feature is for iOS devices. You can arrange your built-in and custom perspectives on the home screen so you immediately see what’s important to you.
 

16. Forecast Tag

The forecast tag is a neat trick! You can assign a special tag to certain tasks, and they’ll show up in the Forecast view for the current day. It’s like having priority tasks front and center to tackle first thing in the morning.
 

17. Custom Perspectives

Custom perspectives let you create your very own ways of seeing your tasks. You can filter and group projects and tags in unique ways.

For example, you could make a perspective that shows only tasks tagged with “Shopping” and “Urgent” so you know what to get on your way home.
 

18. Focus Mode

Focus mode is like your concentration booster. You can choose specific tasks, and OmniFocus will act like those are the only things you have on your list. It helps you focus on what’s important right now and reduces distractions.
 

19. Apple Script

For all you automation fans - there’s AppleScript. It lets you automate tasks in OmniFocus. You can enhance your workflows, integrate with other apps, and even create projects from templates. It’s a real productivity booster!

So, that’s the lowdown on OmniFocus. It’s like having a personal assistant to keep your tasks in check and help you get stuff done!

OmniFocus Pros and Cons

Here’s a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of OmniFocus:

OmniFocus Advantages

• Designed for GTD: OmniFocus is tailored to follow the Getting Things Done methodology (it actually ranked very highly in our list of the top GTD apps), making it ideal for effective task management.

• Plentiful Features: The app offers a wide range of features, allowing users to organize and manage tasks comprehensively.

• Detailed Task Management: Users can add specific details like notes, due dates, and tags to tasks for a comprehensive overview.

• Flexible Licensing: OmniFocus provides options for a perpetual license or subscription, accommodating different preferences.

• Quick Entry: The Quick Entry feature allows rapid task creation from any location on Mac, enhancing task capture efficiency.

• Organizational Tools: Folders and projects enable effective organization of tasks, maintaining a clear and structured task list.

• Customizable Views: Users can tailor their task views, focusing on specific aspects that suit their preferences.

• Project Management Templates: The app offers useful templates, automating the handling of recurring projects and boosting productivity.

• Review Feature: OmniFocus includes a Review feature, reminding users to reassess and update projects regularly.

• Intelligent Autocomplete: Users benefit from intelligent data entry autocomplete, making scheduling tasks easier with shortcuts.
   

OmniFocus Disadvantages

• Limited Collaboration: OmniFocus lacks collaboration features, making it unsuitable for team-based task management.

• Confusing Pricing: Some users find the pricing structure confusing, and there’s no free version or trial option.

• Platform Limitations: The app is exclusive to Apple devices, not available for Windows or Android.

• Learning Curve: OmniFocus may have a steep learning curve, particularly for new users or those unfamiliar with Omni’s software.

• Repeating Task Setup: Setting up repeating tasks can be cumbersome, with multiple options to configure.

• Interface Complexity: Some users may find the interface overwhelming, especially those seeking a simpler task management experience.

• Lack of AI Integration: OmniFocus does not fully integrate AI for advanced project management, load balancing, or contextual awareness.

• Price: The Pro version is relatively costly, which might deter users who want more affordable task management solutions.

In summary, OmniFocus offers a feature-rich and powerful task management solution for users who embrace the GTD methodology and value extensive task organization capabilities.

However, it’s not perfect. The limitations in collaboration, platform availability, and the learning curve can be a turn-off for some people.

OmniFocus 3 Complaints & Praise (OmniFocus Reviews From Real Customers)

Now that we’re almost done with our OmniFocus iOS review, let’s discuss the positive and negative OmniFocus reviews.

Complaints

Some users expressed concerns about OmniFocus. They mentioned that the app comes with a learning curve, especially for those new to this type of task management software. Understanding all the features and optimizing their use might require time and effort.

Another common complaint centered around setting up repeating tasks. Some users found this process a bit fiddly, with multiple options, making it less straightforward than they would have preferred.
 

Praise

On the other hand, many customers said positive things about OmniFocus for iOS. They found the app to be a game-changer for staying organized and productive, especially during busy times.

The quick entry feature received much praise, enabling users to swiftly add tasks on the go without interrupting their workflow.

The project management templates were also highly appreciated, as they automated the handling of recurring tasks, streamlining productivity.

Additionally, users loved the versatility of different perspectives offered by the app. These perspectives allow users to customize how they view their tasks, tailoring the interface to their specific needs and preferences.

Overall, OmniFocus 3 has received positive and negative feedback from real customers. While some users appreciated the app’s powerful task management capabilities, others highlighted the learning curve and repeating task setup as areas that could be improved.

Nevertheless, for many iOS users, OmniFocus is a valuable tool for staying on top of their tasks and enhancing their productivity.
 

Review of OmniFocus Support

When you need help with OmniFocus, you can count on the Support Humans at The Omni Group to assist you. They’re always available to lend a hand, whether you’re trying to figure out how to use custom perspectives, syncing with OmniFocus for iOS, or facing any other issue with the app.

To get support, you have multiple options.

First, you can access the Release Notes from the Help menu for a detailed summary of the latest changes in OmniFocus. This is handy after an update to see if something is behaving differently.

If you prefer online resources, the OmniFocus Support Site is a treasure trove of information, including this reference manual and how-to articles.

The OmniFocus product page is another useful place to find the latest features and updates. You can also check out “Inside OmniFocus” for workflow inspiration and in-depth looks at advanced features.

OmniGroup provides online videos covering various topics, from the latest features to helpful tutorials, helping you level up your OmniFocus skills.

For direct support, you can email them through “Contact Omni” in the Help menu, and they promise a prompt response from real humans.

If you need immediate help during business hours, call Support Humans at 800-315-OMNI or 206-523-4152.

You can join their online forums to engage with the OmniFocus community and share ideas, tips, and questions.

If something isn’t right, OmniFocus has built-in self-help features.

You can use the Completed and Changed perspectives to find misplaced items or check the Attachment List for lost files.

Regularly syncing your data, compacting your database, and archiving old projects can help improve performance and speed up the app.

So, if you ever face any challenges or have questions about OmniFocus, rest assured that their Support Humans and a wealth of resources are there to support you every step!

Is OmniFocus Worth it? Final Points

Is OmniFocus worth it? Well, it depends on your needs and preferences. OmniFocus can be a game-changer if you follow the Getting Things Done (GTD) methodology and value a powerful task management system.

The app’s comprehensive features, like custom perspectives, quick entry, and project management templates, can greatly boost your productivity and keep you organized.

However, if you’re new to task management apps or prefer a simpler interface, OmniFocus may have a steeper learning curve and could be overwhelming.

Additionally, the app’s pricing, lack of collaboration features, and exclusivity to Apple devices might be factors to consider if you’re looking for more affordable or cross-platform alternatives.

You can explore other task management apps like Todoist, Trello, Asana, and Microsoft To Do. Each has unique features and pricing models, so it’s worth checking them out to see which aligns better with your needs and preferences.

In conclusion, OmniFocus could be well worth the investment if you’re an iOS or macOS user who loves the GTD methodology and needs a robust task management system.

However, if you prefer a more straightforward interface or use a different platform, exploring OmniFocus alternatives might be a better fit for you.

Remember, the best task management app is the one that fits your workflow and helps you stay on top of your tasks effectively.

Our Final OmniFocus Rating

We would give OmniFocus a 4.7 out of 5.

OmniFocus FAQs

Is OmniFocus worth it?

OmniFocus could be a valuable investment if you require a detailed, feature-rich task manager and work primarily on Apple devices. It's particularly beneficial for users who need advanced organizational capabilities and are willing to invest time in mastering the tool. OmniFocus is highly regarded for its robust feature set, particularly its ability to handle complex project management tasks with a high degree of customization. However, its price point and learning curve may be considerations for some users. 

Does OmniFocus Cost Money?

Yes, OmniFocus does cost money. It's a premium task management application available for purchase. OmniFocus offers various pricing options depending on the platform (Mac, iOS) and the version you choose. They typically have different tiers, including Standard and Pro versions, each with its own set of features. The Pro version offers more advanced functionalities compared to the Standard.

OmniFocus Pro vs Standard: What’s the difference?

OmniFocus 3 Standard offers essential task management features, including Inbox, Projects, Tags, and Flagged perspectives. On the other hand, the pro version includes all Standard features and adds advanced capabilities such as custom perspectives, the Review perspective, AppleScript support for automation, and even location-based notifications.

Choose Standard for essential task management and Pro for extra customization and automation options. Your decision depends on your specific productivity needs and preferences.