Hubstaff vs Clockify (2026)
Employee monitoring with GPS vs completely free time tracking — updated April 2026.
Quick Verdict: Clockify wins 7-5 on value. It's free for unlimited users with solid core tracking. Hubstaff wins if you manage remote contractors and need accountability features like screenshots, GPS tracking, and activity monitoring built in.
Best for Accountability
Hubstaff
Remote team monitoring with GPS
Pros
- Screenshot monitoring
- GPS tracking for field teams
- Activity level tracking
- Built-in payroll
- Automated pay
Cons
- Paid plans only (no real free tier)
- Can feel invasive to employees
- Complex setup for small teams
From $7/user/mo
Try Hubstaff Free →Best Free Option
Clockify
Free unlimited time tracking for teams
Pros
- Free for unlimited users forever
- Browser extensions and apps
- Flexible project/task tracking
- Good reporting on free tier
- Easy onboarding
Cons
- No GPS on free plan
- No screenshot monitoring
- Invoicing requires paid plan
Free forever + paid from $3.99/user/mo
Start Free with Clockify →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Hubstaff | Clockify |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | Trial only | ✅ Unlimited users |
| Screenshot Monitoring | ✅ | ❌ |
| GPS Tracking | ✅ | Paid plans |
| Activity Monitoring | ✅ | Paid plans |
| Invoicing | ✅ | Paid plans |
| Payroll Integration | ✅ Built-in | Via integrations |
| Browser Extension | ✅ | ✅ |
| Reporting | Advanced | Good (free) |
| Mobile App | ✅ | ✅ |
| Integrations | 30+ | 80+ |
| Price per user | $7+/mo | Free or $3.99+/mo |
| Score | 5/10 | 7/10 |
Which do you use?
Hubstaff
Clockify
Who Should Choose Each Tool
Choose Hubstaff if you…
- Manage remote contractors needing accountability
- Have field workers requiring GPS tracking
- Want automated payroll from time logs
- Need screenshot proof of work
Choose Clockify if you…
- Want free time tracking for any size team
- Don't need monitoring or GPS
- Track time across many projects/clients
- Want to minimize tool costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Hubstaff track screenshots?
Yes. Hubstaff can capture screenshots at random intervals, track keyboard/mouse activity, and provide GPS location tracking for field workers.
Is Clockify really free?
Yes. Clockify offers unlimited users and unlimited time tracking for free. Paid plans add features like invoicing, GPS tracking, and advanced reports.
Which is better for remote teams, Hubstaff or Clockify?
Hubstaff is better for teams needing accountability features like screenshots and activity monitoring. Clockify is better for teams that just need free, flexible time tracking.
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Methodology: Scores are based on feature depth, pricing value, user reviews from G2 and Capterra, and hands-on testing. Updated April 2026.
Last updated: April 10, 2026