🎨 design

Height costs $20/mo.
These cost $0.

17 free alternatives to Height, checked for license, recent activity and real adoption. Each one tells you the catch, so you can switch with your eyes open.

⚡ Quick Verdict · 2027 Guide

The top-rated free, open-source replacement for Height is Macro Tasks (Open Source Open Source). Across this category, 11 self-hostable tools are available (including It's a Plan and Plane). Switching a 5-person team saves up to $1,200/year compared to Height's $20/mo subscription.

The catch: Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.

See the 17 picks ↓

Height vs Free Alternatives

Quick side-by-side comparison · $0/mo vs $20/mo

Alternative	Type	License	Where It Runs	Stars	Head-to-Head
Macro Tasks	open source	Open Source	Local	★ 6.2k	Height vs Macro Tasks →
It's a Plan	open source	Open Source	Self-host	★ 2.2k	Height vs It's a Plan →
Plane	open source	AGPL-3.0	Self-host	★ 62.1k	Height vs Plane →
Huly	open source	EPL-2.0	Self-host	★ 28.1k	Height vs Huly →
OpenProject	open source	GPL-3.0	Self-host	★ 17.1k	Height vs OpenProject →
Leantime	open source	AGPL-3.0+	Self-host	★ 12k	Height vs Leantime →
Redmine	open source	GPL-2.0+	Self-host	★ 6.1k	Height vs Redmine →
Vikunja	open source	AGPL-3.0+	Self-host	★ 6k	Height vs Vikunja →
Worklenz	open source	Open Source	Local	★ 3.3k	Height vs Worklenz →
Kanri	open source	Open Source	Local	★ 2.1k	Height vs Kanri →
Taiga	open source	MPL-2.0	Self-host	★ 858	Height vs Taiga →
Operately	open source	Open Source	Self-host	★ 618	Height vs Operately →
Ever Teams	open source	Open Source	Local	★ 603	Height vs Ever Teams →
Orgnise	open source	Open Source	Local	★ 246	Height vs Orgnise →
Manage	open source	Open Source	Self-host	★ 71	Height vs Manage →
Mimrai	open source	Open Source	Local	★ 25	Height vs Mimrai →
Sayr	open source	Open Source	Self-host	★ 31	Height vs Sayr →

The picks

17 open source · ranked by fit

01
Macro Tasks
open sourceOpen SourceLocal
6.2knov 2026
Task manager built for engineering teams, combining status tracking, priority management, GitHub integration, and AI agents that can close tasks automatically.
The catch vs Height
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
desktopcross-platformone-click install
install
Clone https://github.com/macro-inc/macro or deploy with Docker Compose
setup
Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
your data
All application data lives locally on your own machine.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit macro.com ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 2 other apps →
02
It's a Plan
open sourceOpen SourceSelf-host
2.2knov 2026
Self-hosted issue tracker with boards, timelines, initiatives and dashboards, where AI agents take assigned issues like teammates. AGPL-3.0, no per-seat fees.
The catch vs Height
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Height.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
webself-hosteddocker to self-host
install
Clone https://github.com/croffasia/itsaplan or deploy with Docker Compose
setup
Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
your data
All application data and configuration live on your own server or local database.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit itsaplan.dev ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 1 other app →
03
Plane
open sourceAGPL-3.0Self-host
62.1knov 2026
Open source project management platform combining issues, wikis, and AI agents in one workspace. Available on cloud, self-hosted, and air-gapped deployments.
The catch vs Height
Plane is built around software-style work items and lacks Asana's mature goals, portfolios, workload planning, forms, rules, and broad cross-functional template ecosystem.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
webself-hostedself-host, real ops
install
Hosted signup, or the official Docker/Kubernetes self-hosting stack
setup
Self-hosting is a multi-service deployment: Docker or Kubernetes plus PostgreSQL, RabbitMQ, object storage, a domain, TLS, and usually email configuration.
your data
Self-hosted Plane keeps workspaces, projects, work items, users, comments, and settings in PostgreSQL; attachments, images, and exports live in MinIO or another S3-compatible object store, with RabbitMQ and optional OpenSearch alongside them. Plane Cloud stores the equivalent data in Plane's infrastructure.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit plane.so ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 9 other apps →
04
Huly
open sourceEPL-2.0Self-host
28.1knov 2026
Combines project management, team chat, virtual office, and collaborative docs into a single platform. A self-hostable alternative to Linear, Jira, Slack, and Notion.
The catch vs Height
Huly's hosted service is gone and its self-hosted issue-doc-chat stack is more technical and less client-friendly than Basecamp's simple project spaces, check-ins, and email participation.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
webself-hostedself-host, real ops
install
Run the official Huly Selfhost Docker Compose stack on Linux, using its setup script plus Nginx/TLS for production
setup
The first obstacle is the production-sized stack: Linux, Docker Compose, Nginx and certificates plus CockroachDB, Redpanda, Elasticsearch, storage volumes, backups, and enough RAM.
your data
The self-host stack uses CockroachDB for account/workspace data, Elasticsearch for search indexes, Redpanda for event streams, and persistent volumes for uploaded files; optional services may add MongoDB. The public hosted Huly service announced its shutdown, so new use means self-hosting.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit huly.io ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 7 other apps →
05
OpenProject
open sourceGPL-3.0Self-host
17.1knov 2026
Full-featured project management platform with Gantt charts, agile boards, time tracking, and team collaboration. Self-host or use managed cloud hosting.
The catch vs Height
OpenProject can model more formal project plans, but its denser interface and weaker no-code automation make ordinary team coordination slower than Asana.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
webself-hosteddocker to self-host
install
Hosted Enterprise Cloud signup, or Community Edition via Docker Compose/all-in-one Docker or supported Linux packages
setup
The free Community Edition needs a Linux server; the recommended Docker setup still requires persistent database/file volumes, a hostname, TLS, and mail configuration.
your data
Self-hosted application data lives in PostgreSQL; uploaded attachments live on a persistent filesystem volume or configured S3-compatible object storage, while configuration and any linked repositories must be backed up separately. Cloud data lives in OpenProject's hosted infrastructure.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit openproject.org ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 10 other apps →
06
Leantime
open sourceAGPL-3.0+Self-host
12knov 2026
Open-source software designed to streamline tasks, boost productivity, and enhance collaboration for teams of all types, including those with ADHD and neurodiversity.
The catch vs Height
Leantime covers projects and goals but has fewer polished integrations, rules, mobile workflows, dashboards, and enterprise controls than Asana.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
webself-hosteddocker to self-host
install
Paid hosted signup, or the free open-source edition via Docker Compose/official image or a PHP release archive plus MySQL/MariaDB
setup
There is no longer a permanent free hosted tier: the free route means operating PHP, MySQL/MariaDB, persistent storage, backups, and a web-facing Docker or LAMP stack.
your data
Self-hosted project data lives in MySQL 8 or MariaDB 10.6+, while uploaded files use the local filesystem or configured S3-compatible storage; hosted-account data lives in Leantime's cloud.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit leantime.io ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 9 other apps →
07
Redmine
open sourceGPL-2.0+Self-host
6.1knov 2026
Self-hosted project management web app built on Ruby on Rails with issue tracking, time logging, SCM integration, and multi-project support across any database.
The catch vs Height
Redmine gives up Asana's modern collaboration, mobile experience, forms, automation, portfolio reporting, and real-time polish in exchange for a highly configurable server.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
webself-hostedself-host, real ops
install
Install the Ruby on Rails application against PostgreSQL, MySQL/MariaDB, or SQLite; packaged containers/appliances are third-party conveniences
setup
The official install is a real Rails deployment, Ruby and gem versions, database creation, migrations, a production web server, email, backups, and upgrades are all the operator's job.
your data
Issues, users, projects, time entries, and configuration live in the configured SQL database; uploaded attachments live as files in Redmine's `files` directory.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit redmine.org ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 8 other apps →
08
Vikunja
open sourceAGPL-3.0+Self-host
6knov 2026
A powerful, open-source task management platform for teams and individuals, offering customizable workflows and seamless integration.
The catch vs Height
Vikunja lacks Any.do’s polished guided daily planner, consumer-grade reminders, calendar experience, and low-friction mobile setup.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
desktopwebself-hosteddocker to self-host
install
Use the paid hosted service or deploy the free server with Docker Compose, a package, or the standalone binary
setup
The free path requires a server or Docker, persistent volumes, secrets, and normally a reverse proxy with TLS
your data
Tasks, projects, users, and settings live in SQLite, MySQL/MariaDB, or PostgreSQL, with attachments in a persistent files directory, on the selected host
checked
2026-11-07
Visit vikunja.io ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 10 other apps →
09
Worklenz
open sourceOpen SourceLocal
3.3knov 2026
Worklenz is a comprehensive project management platform that helps agencies organize tasks, track resources, and boost productivity.
The catch vs Height
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
desktopcross-platformone-click install
install
Clone https://github.com/worklenz/worklenz or deploy with Docker Compose
setup
Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
your data
All application data lives locally on your own machine.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit worklenz.com ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 2 other apps →
10
Kanri
open sourceOpen SourceLocal
2.1knov 2026
Kanri is a free, open-source personal Kanban app that works offline, offering a modern and simple experience while respecting your privacy.
The catch vs Height
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
desktopcross-platformone-click install
install
Clone https://github.com/kanriapp/kanri or deploy with Docker Compose
setup
Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
your data
All application data lives locally on your own machine.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit kanriapp.com ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 4 other apps →
11
Taiga
open sourceMPL-2.0Self-host
858nov 2026
Self-hostable agile project management tool with Kanban and Scrum boards, sprint planning, issue tracking, and reporting for teams of any size.
The catch vs Height
Taiga makes Scrum and kanban pleasant, but reporting, workflow customization, permissions, release planning, and integrations are materially thinner than Jira.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
webself-hostedself-host, real ops
install
Hosted Taiga signup, or the official multi-container Docker Compose production stack
setup
Production self-hosting is not one container: it needs Docker/Compose familiarity, several Taiga services, PostgreSQL, RabbitMQ, environment files, a reverse proxy, TLS, and email settings.
your data
A self-hosted deployment stores application data in PostgreSQL, messages/events in RabbitMQ, and uploaded media in persistent volumes or configured storage; hosted workspaces live in Taiga's cloud.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit taiga.io ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 6 other apps →
12
Operately
open sourceOpen SourceSelf-host
618nov 2026
Operately is an open source platform that centralizes projects, goals, and processes, helping startups run efficiently without a COO.
The catch vs Height
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Height.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
webself-hosteddocker to self-host
install
Clone https://github.com/operately/operately or deploy with Docker Compose
setup
Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
your data
All application data and configuration live on your own server or local database.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit operately.com ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 4 other apps →
13
Ever Teams
open sourceOpen SourceLocal
603nov 2026
Ever Teams offers an all-in-one solution for work management, time tracking, and team collaboration with integrations for popular tools.
The catch vs Height
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
desktopcross-platformone-click install
install
Clone https://github.com/ever-co/ever-teams or deploy with Docker Compose
setup
Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
your data
All application data lives locally on your own machine.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit ever.team ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 5 other apps →
14
Orgnise
open sourceOpen SourceLocal
246nov 2026
A versatile project management platform that combines task organization, team collaboration, and workflow automation in one intuitive interface.
The catch vs Height
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
desktopcross-platformone-click install
install
Clone https://github.com/orgnise/webapp or deploy with Docker Compose
setup
Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
your data
All application data lives locally on your own machine.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit orgnise.in ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 4 other apps →
15
Manage
open sourceOpen SourceSelf-host
71nov 2026
Project management app with task lists, calendar, files, docs and full-text search. Self-host it on your own infrastructure with team roles and permissions.
The catch vs Height
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Height.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
webself-hosteddocker to self-host
install
Clone https://github.com/techulus/manage or deploy with Docker Compose
setup
Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
your data
All application data and configuration live on your own server or local database.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit managee.xyz ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 3 other apps →
16
Mimrai
open sourceOpen SourceLocal
25nov 2026
Open source minimalist task management tool with AI companion that filters noise, automates coordination, and guides teams through complexity with calm focus.
The catch vs Height
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
desktopcross-platformone-click install
install
Clone https://github.com/mimrai-org/mimrai or deploy with Docker Compose
setup
Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
your data
All application data lives locally on your own machine.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit mimrai.com ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 3 other apps →
17
Sayr
open sourceOpen SourceSelf-host
31nov 2026
Source-available project management platform with dual views - internal team workspace and public portal for user feedback, voting, and progress tracking.
The catch vs Height
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Height.
Install, platforms & data +
platforms
webself-hosteddocker to self-host
install
Clone https://github.com/dorasto/sayr or deploy with Docker Compose
setup
Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
your data
All application data and configuration live on your own server or local database.
checked
2026-11-07
Visit sayr.io ↗Source Compare vs Height →also replaces 3 other apps →

Height Head-to-Head Comparisons (2027)

Side-by-side trade-off breakdowns · 17 free alternatives

Height vs Macro TasksOpen Source · Local →

Height vs It's a PlanOpen Source · Self-host →

Height vs PlaneAGPL-3.0 · Self-host →

Height vs HulyEPL-2.0 · Self-host →

Height vs OpenProjectGPL-3.0 · Self-host →

Height vs LeantimeAGPL-3.0+ · Self-host →

Height vs RedmineGPL-2.0+ · Self-host →

Height vs VikunjaAGPL-3.0+ · Self-host →

Height vs WorklenzOpen Source · Local →

Height vs KanriOpen Source · Local →

Height vs TaigaMPL-2.0 · Self-host →

Height vs OperatelyOpen Source · Self-host →

Height vs Ever TeamsOpen Source · Local →

Height vs OrgniseOpen Source · Local →

Height vs ManageOpen Source · Self-host →

Height vs MimraiOpen Source · Local →

Height vs SayrOpen Source · Self-host →

Frequently Asked Questions

Direct answers · Height open-source replacements

What is the best free alternative to Height?+

The top free alternative to Height is Macro Tasks (open source, Open Source). Task manager built for engineering teams, combining status tracking, priority management, GitHub integration, and AI agents that can close tasks automatically. Other popular Height replacements include It's a Plan, Plane, Huly.

Can I self-host a free replacement for Height?+

Yes. Of the 17 free alternatives to Height, 11 can be self-hosted on your own server or local machine: It's a Plan (Open Source), Plane (AGPL-3.0), Huly (EPL-2.0), OpenProject (GPL-3.0), Leantime (AGPL-3.0+), Redmine (GPL-2.0+), Vikunja (AGPL-3.0+), Taiga (MPL-2.0), Operately (Open Source), Manage (Open Source), Sayr (Open Source).

How much does switching from Height to a free alternative save?+

Height starts at $20/month per seat ($240/year). Switching a 5-person team to a free alternative like Macro Tasks saves $1,200 per year in software subscription fees.

Should I vibe-code or build my own Height clone from scratch?+

Our build verdict for Height is NO (use a free alternative, save the tokens). Instead of paying recurring SaaS fees for Height or rebuilding it from scratch, deploy one of the 17 battle-tested open-source alternatives like Macro Tasks.

What is the catch when switching from Height to Macro Tasks?+

Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.