Head-to-Head Comparison · Alternative to Code Time · 📊 analytics
Code Time vs Hackatime
Free, open-source coding time tracker compatible with VS Code, JetBrains IDEs, vim, emacs and more. No limits, no paywalls - your data stays yours forever. Here is how Hackatime ($0/mo open source) stacks up against Code Time ($35/mo) across cost, hosting, data privacy, and real-world trade-offs.
Hackatime is a verified Open Source-licensed open-source replacement for Code Time. Switching from Code Time ($35/mo) saves $420/yr per solo seat, or $2,100/yr for a 5-person team. Deployment: Runs on Self-host.
The catch: Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Code Time.
Hackatime
$0.00/mo · Open Source
Code Time vs Hackatime Specifications
facts verified 2026-11-07
| Dimension | Code Time (Paid) | Hackatime (Replacement) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $35 / mo | $0 / mo |
| 1-Year Cost (1 seat) | $420 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $420) |
| 1-Year Cost (5 seats) | $2,100 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $2,100) |
| 1-Year Cost (10 seats) | $4,200 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $4,200) |
| Source & License | Proprietary SaaS | open source Open Source |
| Where It Runs | Vendor Cloud | Self-host (your server) |
| Platforms | Web / Cloud | webself-hosteddocker to self-host |
| GitHub Stars | — | ★ 216 (active nov 2026) |
Deep Dive: Switching from Code Time to Hackatime
Trade-offs, installation & data architecture
What you trade away
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Code Time.
How to deploy Hackatime
Clone https://github.com/hackclub/hackatime or deploy with Docker Compose
What it takes to run
Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
Where your data lives
All application data and configuration live on your own server or local database.
Why fork Hackatime instead of vibe-coding a Code Time clone?
Instead of paying recurring SaaS fees for Code Time or rebuilding it from scratch, deploy one of the 4 battle-tested open-source alternatives like ActivityWatch.
Code Time vs Hackatime FAQ
Is Hackatime a good free alternative to Code Time?+
Yes. Hackatime is a verified open-source (Open Source) replacement for Code Time. Free, open-source coding time tracker compatible with VS Code, JetBrains IDEs, vim, emacs and more. No limits, no paywalls - your data stays yours forever.
What is the catch when switching from Code Time to Hackatime?+
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Code Time.
How much do you save switching from Code Time to Hackatime?+
Code Time costs $35/mo ($420/yr) per seat, whereas Hackatime is $0/mo. Switching saves $420/yr for a solo user, $2,100/yr for a 5-person team, and $4,200/yr for a 10-person team.
How do I install or self-host Hackatime instead of Code Time?+
Install: Clone https://github.com/hackclub/hackatime or deploy with Docker Compose. Setup: Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
