Free Employee Scheduling Software: The Top 10 in 2025!
Struggling with chaotic scheduling processes? This list of the best free employee scheduling software will let you streamline operations, boost productivity, and keep your budget intact—all while saving you time and effort.
Introduction
Finding reliable free employee scheduling software can feel like a challenge. Don't you agree many tools fall short with limited features like shift swaps, time-off tracking, or payroll integration? Moreover, outdated designs and user caps only add to the frustration.
But there’s good news—the ideal solution does exist. A software that’s intuitive, feature-packed, scalable, and completely free, tailored to meet the needs of your team and growing business.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through the top free employee scheduling software, showcasing tools that deliver exceptional value (all while helping you sidestep these common pitfalls, yes!)
What is Employee Scheduling Software?
Employee scheduling software is a digital tool that helps businesses organize and manage employee work schedules efficiently. By automating tasks like shift planning, time-off requests, and availability tracking, it eliminates scheduling conflicts and ensures optimal resource allocation.
Free employee scheduling software offers all the functionalities free of charge for most of the features offered by these software platforms either permanently (as in a freemium plan), or for a set period of time with a free trial.
Key Features of Free Employee Scheduling Software
Free employee scheduling software offers a cost-effective way to streamline your workforce management. While it’s an excellent starting point for budget-conscious businesses, free options often provide only essential features. Understanding what’s typically included—and what might require an upgrade—is key to making the most of your scheduling software.
Typically Free Features:
Basic Scheduling: Easily create weekly schedules for hourly employees to maintain optimal staff levels. These fundamental tools form the backbone of most employee scheduling software.
Time Tracking: Track how employees allocate their time to tasks and approve timesheets to enhance productivity and ensure accurate payroll management.
Timesheet Reporting & Analytics: Generate reports for logged hours, overtime, and billable hours. While some free tools may offer basic analytics, advanced insights are usually part of premium plans.
Mobile App Accessibility: Ensure your team stays connected with mobile-friendly apps that allow employees to check schedules and updates anytime, anywhere.
Schedule Export Options: Export schedules in PDF, spreadsheet, or email formats to accommodate remote teams or those with limited internet access, ensuring everyone stays informed.
Time-off Requests & Approvals: A streamlined system for managing time-off requests helps boost morale and maintain productivity by ensuring organized scheduling.
Advanced Features in Paid Plans:
Shift Swapping: Subject to management approval, employees can swap shifts directly within the app. This feature reduces administrative effort while improving flexibility and employee satisfaction.
Customizable Shifts: Schedule shifts based on roles, skills, or departments, ensuring the right person is assigned to the right job for maximum efficiency.
Multi-Location Support: Simplify scheduling for businesses operating in multiple locations, ensuring consistency across all sites.
Integration Capabilities: Seamlessly connect with payroll, HR, and time-tracking software to save time, reduce errors, and streamline operations.
Labor Cost Forecasting: Use historical data and sales forecasts to predict labor costs, helping you strategically plan budgets and adjust staffing levels.
Budgeting & Cost Analysis: Compare actual labor costs against budgets, identify trends, and forecast future expenses to maintain financial control.
Overtime Management: Monitor and manage overtime to comply with labor laws and avoid unnecessary costs.
Investing in software with these features—whether free or paid—can transform your scheduling processes, enhance team satisfaction, and boost operational efficiency. By focusing on the features that align with your business needs, you’ll be well-equipped to improve productivity, keep employees engaged, and achieve your goals without breaking the bank. If your needs surpass what free plans offer, affordable paid solutions can provide the advanced tools you require to grow your business.
List of the Best Free Scheduling Software in 2025
When I Work : Perfect for SMBs, featuring an easy-to-use mobile app and employee self-service options.
Buddy Punch : A simple and user-friendly platform for small businesses, combining scheduling and time tracking.
Rippling : Streamlines shift management, boosts team productivity, and ensures compliance with ease.
Deputy : Known for its intuitive interface, AI-powered scheduling, and robust compliance tools.
Sling : A robust scheduling and communication tool designed to streamline employee shift management for businesses of all sizes.
ZoomShift : A simple scheduling and time-tracking software tailored for hourly employees and shift-based workforces.
Clockify : A versatile time-tracking and scheduling solution offering free features for teams to manage shifts and track productivity.
Connecteam : An all-in-one platform for deskless teams, combining scheduling, communication, and task management in one app.
Zoho Shifts : A comprehensive tool within the Zoho ecosystem, combining scheduling, time tracking, and workforce analytics.
Factorial : A modern HR software solution that integrates employee scheduling with payroll, performance, and benefits management.
Detailed Description - Best Free Employee Scheduling Software in 2024
When I Work
When I Work, starting at $1.50 per user per month, is a top choice for small to midsize businesses (SMBs) seeking intuitive and affordable employee scheduling solutions. With a user-friendly interface accessible via desktop and mobile apps, it simplifies scheduling, shift trading, time-off requests, and attendance tracking. Notably, it’s free for teams of up to 75 employees, making it one of the most cost-effective options in the market. The software also supports seamless management of employee availability and includes dedicated Android and iOS apps, ensuring on-the-go access for teams.
Recommended For: For SMBs looking for a reliable, no-frills scheduling solution, it delivers exceptional value and convenience.
Standout Features
One-click scheduling tool
Mobile-friendly interface
Time tracking and attendance monitoring
Employee availability and shift swap tools
SMS and email notifications
Overtime management tools
- It offers straightforward usability.
- It stands out with a strong core feature set and sleek design.
Customer Review
“Easy to use and detailed information are displayed from the moment you logged in to the page.” (Source: G2)
- Its reporting and integrations with third-party apps like HR or payroll systems are less robust compared to competitors.
- Advanced features like forecasting are limited.
Customer Review
“#1 frustration is pulling reports.” (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- Dunkin Donuts
- Medtronic
- Tesla Motors
- Sound Cloud
- Harvard University
Pricing
Buddy Punch
Buddy Punch streamlines time tracking and employee scheduling for businesses managing distributed teams across multiple locations and time zones. Its innovative Time Clock Locations feature allows managers to create and assign specific locations to employees, who can then log onto their work site directly on timecards. This enables real-time visibility into hours spent at each site, simplifying productivity tracking and improving accountability.
Additionally, Buddy Punch generates detailed reports for single or multiple locations, empowering managers to assess workloads and optimize resource allocation effectively. For businesses seeking a flexible and intuitive scheduling solution, Buddy Punch delivers efficiency and control across diverse work environments.
Recommended For: Small businesses that need a simple and user-friendly platform for scheduling and time tracking.
Standout Features
Intuitive time clock and scheduling
Biometric and webcam punching
PTO and overtime tracking
Payroll system integrations
Customizable employee reports
Mobile-friendly interface
- It offers a user-friendly design.
- The customer support team is knowledgeable and responsive.
Customer Review
“Customer support is very helpful.” (Source: G2)
- The features might be limited for larger organizations.
- At times, there are minor lags.
Customer Review
“Sometimes, it takes a while to load when I'm trying to log in, and it freezes when I'm about to clock in for a break or lunch.” (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- Starbucks
- State Farm
- The YMCA
- H&R Block
Pricing
Rippling
Rippling stands out in workforce management by seamlessly integrating HR, IT, and finance functions into one platform, streamlining business operations. Its scheduling feature is highly intuitive, offering a drag-and-drop interface to quickly assign shifts, copy patterns, and include breaks with ease. What sets Rippling apart is its real-time integration of employee data—like availability and pay rates—ensuring conflict-free scheduling and adherence to labor laws for enhanced compliance.
The Rippling mobile app empowers employees to manage their schedules on the go, allowing them to request time off, swap shifts, or update availability effortlessly, while managers receive instant notifications about attendance issues. With automated processes to prevent over-scheduling and ensure fairness, Rippling delivers a robust, user-friendly solution that excels in efficiency and adaptability, making it a leading choice for modern businesses.
Recommended For: Companies of all sizes seeking employee scheduling solutions integrated with broader HR and workforce management capabilities.
Standout Features
Drag-and-Drop Scheduling
Real-Time Data Integration
Mobile App for Scheduling
Compliance Checks
Attendance Monitoring
Custom Workflow Automation
- Mobile app allows employees to manage their schedules seamlessly.
- The platform is easy to use.
Customer Review
“The interface is good to the eye and very easy to use.” (Source: G2)
- Requires investment in setup and training to leverage all capabilities effectively.
- The platform could be overwhelming for users who aren’t as tech-savvy.
Customer Review
“I sometimes find it frustrating to make schedule change requests or ask for time off.” (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- AngelList
- FiveStars
- Highspot
- Envoy
Pricing
Deputy
Deputy is a top-tier employee scheduling and shift planning tool, earning an Editors' Choice award for its exceptional features and usability. What sets Deputy apart is its additional human resource (HR) functionalities, offering SMBs an all-in-one solution for scheduling and basic HR needs. While its HR capabilities may not rival specialized platforms like BambooHR or Zenefits, it provides excellent value for businesses seeking a dual-purpose tool. Backed by 24/7 customer support, Deputy ensures smooth operations for businesses of all sizes, placing it among the best scheduling solutions alongside competitors like Humanity.
Recommended For: SMBs looking to streamline scheduling and HR processes with a single, affordable solution, Deputy delivers an unmatched combination of flexibility, usability, and support.
Standout Features
AI-driven shift scheduling.
Mobile app with self-service options.
Real-time compliance alerts.
Drag-and-drop scheduling interface.
Seamless payroll integration.
Employee performance tracking.
- It’s an excellent option for shift-based industries.
- It offers a highly intuitive interface.
Customer Review
“It is very thorough and organized and has been life changing!” (Source: G2)
- Timesheets are easier to modify on the mobile phone app than on Windows.
- At times, there are glitches in the mobile app.
Customer Review
“One downside of Deputy is that the mobile app can occasionally be glitchy.” (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- Harper Logistics
- Ace Hardware
- Trek
- F45
- Reliant Healthcare
Pricing
Sling
Sling is a versatile employee scheduling and workforce management tool designed to optimize productivity and streamline tasks. With features like reusable shift templates, real-time notifications, and seamless communication, Sling empowers managers and teams to stay on track. The free plan supports unlimited users, while advanced tools such as shift swapping and time clocks are available in paid plans to support growing businesses.
Recommended For: Small to medium businesses in retail, hospitality, and service-based sectors.
Standout Features
Drag-and-drop shift scheduling
Shift templates
Shift swapping
Real-time notifications
Seamless team communication
Time-off requests and approvals
- Sends notifications when employees miss a clock in or out.
- Offers excellent communication tools built into the platform.
Customer Review
"I like being able to communicate and share photos/documents easily with coworkers." (Source: G2)
- Advanced features like time clock and payroll integrations are offered in the paid plan.
- There are occasional minor bugs or glitches.
Customer Review
"Sometimes, the application was frozen or kept loading." (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- Subway
- Amazon
- AMC Theatres
- Juice Generation
- Taco Bell
Pricing
ZoomShift
ZoomShift is a comprehensive scheduling solution that simplifies workforce management. Employees can view schedules, set availability, request time-off, and pick up open shifts directly from the platform. Tools like reusable schedule templates, automatic reminders, and real-time visibility into employee availability ensure smooth operations, quick replacements, and effective communication.
Recommended For: Small businesses and hourly workforces, including restaurants and retail.
Standout Features
Reusable schedule templates
Automatic shift reminders
Shift swapping and open shift assignments
Push notifications for schedule updates
Time-off and availability tracking
Real-time employee scheduling visibility
- User-friendly platform
- Knowledgeable customer support
Customer Review
"The value for money and amazing support throughout the subscription is a reason I often recommend ZoomShift to people looking for rostering solutions." (Source: G2)
- Advanced reporting features are locked to higher plans
- Limited integrations
Customer Review
"Some integrations with other software would be incredibly beneficial for timesheet and payroll." (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- Holiday Inn
- Amazon
- Ace Hardware
- Walgreens
Pricing
Clockify
Clockify is a versatile time tracking and scheduling solution designed to enhance productivity and simplify workforce management. It allows businesses to create and manage schedules, track employee hours, monitor project timelines, and oversee time-off requests—all in one platform. Clockify offers a free-forever plan that includes unlimited users and essential features, making it an excellent choice for businesses of all sizes.
Recommended For: Project-oriented businesses and remote teams from companies of all sizes.
Standout Features
Unlimited time tracking
Task and project tracking
Streamlined payroll processing
Integration with Trello, Asana, and Slack
Detailed reporting
Offline mode
- Core features are completely free
- Wide range of integrations
Customer Review
"The seamless integration with other tools enhances my workflow significantly." (Source: G2)
- Limited customer support for free users
- Limited customization and flexibility
Customer Review
"I think there are now some restrictions on how flexible the reports that are created can be. More possibilities to filter and personalize the reports to my own requirements would be nice." (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- Hewlett Packard Enterprise
- Cisco
- American Express
- FujiFilm
- Dominos
Pricing
Connecteam
Connecteam takes the hassle out of employee scheduling with powerful tools designed to save managers time and streamline operations. Its intuitive platform enables effortless shift planning, allocation, and monitoring, supported by features like reusable schedule templates and automatic alerts to notify employees of upcoming shifts or changes. The standout auto-scheduling feature aligns shifts with employee availability, distributes work equitably, and ensures proper staffing by assigning jobs based on qualifications. With just a few clicks, managers can create ongoing or recurring shifts, assign open slots, and handle conflicts efficiently.
Connecteam offers everything a small business needs with its Free Forever plan for upto 10 users providing all hubs and full access to their most popular features.
Recommended For: For businesses seeking a fast, flexible, and reliable scheduling solution, Connecteam delivers unmatched convenience and functionality for deskless and mobile-first teams.
Standout Features
All-in-one scheduling and time tracking
Team chat and task management
GPS-enabled time clock
Customizable templates for scheduling
HR and training tools
Mobile-first design
- It saves time and increases productivity with mobile-first custom checklists, forms, and reports.
- Easy to set up and operate along with being affordable, making it ideal for SMBs.
Customer Review
“Made organizing staff and events so much easier! Great customer support when needed!” (Source: G2)
- Analytics features are not as robust for large enterprises.
- Fewer app integrations compared to competitors.
Customer Review
“Some oversights/missing features.” (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- Volvo
- Mango
- Subway
- DHL
Pricing
Zoho Shifts
Zoho Shifts is a comprehensive employee scheduling and time-tracking solution that simplifies workforce management. Features like GPS tagging, geofencing, automatic shift reminders, and personalized availability settings help create seamless, conflict-free schedules. Real-time notifications via SMS, email, and push alerts ensure accountability, while advanced tools like labor cost analysis and customizable access permissions provide enhanced control.
Recommended For: Medium to large businesses with complex scheduling needs.
Standout Features
GPS tagging and geofencing
Shift swapping and personalized availability preferences
Advanced reporting with labor cost analysis
Real-time notifications via SMS, email, and push alerts
Integration with Zoho's suite and other tools
- Seamless integration with other Zoho products
- Feature-rich free trial for exploration
- Built-in messenger for seamless employee communication
Customer Review
"Nice chat system for staff to communicate regarding shift cover also." (Source: GetApp)
- Can feel overcomplicated for small teams
- Limited third-party integrations outside Zoho suite
Customer Review
"The only downside is Zoho doesn't do payroll software in the UK yet so cannot link Zoho Shifts directly to a Zoho app." (Source: GetApp)
Notable Clients
- Canine Country Club Inc
Pricing
Factorial
Factorial is an all-in-one HR software designed to simplify employee scheduling, time-off management, and overtime tracking with a cloud-based, user-friendly interface. It includes a drag-and-drop scheduler, real-time attendance tracking, and payroll automation. Factorial's robust integrations with tools like Sage, LinkedIn, and Slack further enhance its capabilities, making it a versatile solution for workforce management.
Recommended For: Medium to large enterprises with HR and scheduling needs.
Standout Features
Drag-and-drop scheduler
Labor law compliance
Real-time attendance and time tracking
Integrated payroll and performance management tools
Comprehensive reporting
Robust integrations
- All-in-one HR platform with extensive features
- Transparent communication of schedules
Customer Review
"The features they offer, such as payroll management, absence tracking, and performance evaluations, have optimized our internal processes." (Source: G2)
- Advanced features may require additional setup
- Too many features make it overwhelming
Customer Review
"This complexity may affect the least experienced users from fully utilizing the platform's capabilities, limiting its effectiveness in enhancing the experience." (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- NOBU
- Marriott International
- Checkr
- Globalfy
Pricing
Benefits of Using HR Scheduling Software
The main benefits of incorporating HR scheduling software in your organization are:
Simplified Workforce Management: Automates shift scheduling, reducing errors and saving time.
Improved Communication: Centralized platforms allow employees and managers to communicate seamlessly.
Enhanced Compliance: Helps adhere to labor laws and avoids scheduling conflicts.
Real-Time Tracking: Offers live insights into attendance, availability, and scheduling updates.
Cost Savings: Optimizes workforce allocation to minimize overtime costs.
FAQs
Q.1. How does HR Scheduling software work?
Ans: These tools work by installing software on employees' devices or running via cloud-based platforms. They monitor activities like application usage, website visits, and idle time while generating reports to help managers assess productivity.
Q.2. Why do companies use HR Scheduling software?
Ans: Companies use these tools to enhance productivity, ensure compliance, prevent data breaches, and manage remote teams effectively. By offering transparency, they help organizations identify areas for improvement and foster accountability.
Q.3. How does HR Scheduling software maintain employee privacy?
Ans: Many tools include features like customizable monitoring settings, restricted data access, and anonymized reporting. Transparent communication about monitoring practices can further ease privacy concerns.
Q.4. Can HR Scheduling software improve productivity?
Ans: Yes, by identifying unproductive behaviors and streamlining workflows, these tools help managers and employees focus on high-priority tasks, boosting overall productivity.
Q.5. Which industries benefit most from HR Scheduling software?
Ans: Industries like IT, finance, customer service, and healthcare often benefit the most, particularly those with remote, hybrid, or highly regulated environments.
This article is written by Shabana Shahnaz, a Product Research Analyst passionate about uncovering the nuances of software solutions. With a sharp analytical mind and a keen eye for detail, Shabana excels at comparing and contrasting software products at Vantage Circle. To get in touch, reach out to editor@vantagecircle.com
