Until the introduction of iOS 13, Apple paid little attention to the default reminders app on the iPhone. Third-party developers have filled the void with excellent alternatives like Todoist, Things 3, Microsoft To-Do, and more.
The scenario has changed with the iOS 13 update. Apple has doubled down on the reminders app and made a big change in looks and functions. The app can now compete from the ground up with the built-in options in the App Store.
Another feature-packed offering on the App Store is Culturedcode’s Things 3. While there are some reasons to seek out Things 3 alternatives for iOS, the overall package is still unmatched by the majority in the Apple ecosystem.
While we’ve already compared Apple Reminders to Microsoft To-Dos, in this post, we’re going to go up against Thing 3 to see if it’s worth replacing. The fight will be intense, so fasten your seats and let’s get started.
Cross-Platform Availability
A tie. Both apps are exclusive to Apple. Therefore, they are only available on iOS and Mac. I understand the behavior of the Apple Reminder app, but I was surprised to realize that Things 3 is not available on Android and Windows. There is no web support either.
user interface
Apple’s reminder app has finally received a much-needed overhaul in terms of design. The homepage now shows the default four tabs (but not customizable) and the lists below it.
Swipe up to search through tasks and use the edit button to rearrange or delete lists. As with any other iOS app, you cannot access settings from the app itself. To make changes, you need to go to Settings > Reminders.
3. Things went through a UI makeover in late 2017. And the app still looks and feels better than others. In my opinion, Things 3 has the best user interface of all task management apps. But hey, this is just for me.
It is simple, beautiful and follows gesture based navigation. The homepage displays the default inbox, upcoming episode, registry, and lists below.
You can scroll down and tap the ‘+’ button to add a task, create a project and search through tasks.
Things 3 supports dark gray and pure black theme from Settings. It also suits the system-wide dark theme introduced in iOS 13.
Adding Tasks and Details
The experience of adding tasks in the Apple Reminders application has received a lot of attention.
Now you can tap on Add Reminder and the small menu will let you add due date/time, images and tick a reminder. You can also use location-based reminders that let you know about the task when you reach home, the office, or get in the car.
With a single tap on the info icon, you can add notes, URL, set reminder frequency and prioritize.
Apple Reminders all support subtasks. It’s hidden in the info menu though. I use it to manage small projects. User gets Siri functionality with Apple Reminders. You can ask Siri to set a reminder with the due date and time. I use it often and it works flawlessly.
Thing 3 offers three options – add a new to-do, create a new project or create a new space (for group projects).
After that, Stuff 3 lets you add all the details via the drop-down menu. You can add due date/time, create a task related checklist, assign a due date and add a corresponding tag.
The second option of the new project is simple. Add project name, notes, details, assign a deadline, tags and create small steps. You are now ready to move on to project management.
The new field option is for group projects. You can create a space and start a project with team members. Speaking of sharing, let’s see how collaboration works in both apps.
Sharing
With Apple Reminders, you can invite and share the entire list with others. Tap on the three-dot menu above and select add contact and share a link via the default iOS sharing menu.
Thing 3 lets you share the list in simple words. You can also use the copy link option from the Share menu, but the recipient person must be at Item 3 to make changes.
Extra Functions
Apple Reminders lets you create custom lists. You can add a logo and accent color to give it a personal touch. The application also supports. iOS widgets and. Ability to add new tasks via a long tap menu.
Things 3 supports Siri shortcuts from the Settings menu. The app also offers calendar integration. So you can view and edit upcoming events within the app.
Other goodies include iOS widget support and long-touch menu options that let you create tasks in no time.
Backup and Price
By default, all entries in Apple Reminders are saved in iCloud. The app is completely free on iOS and Mac.
Things 3 uses Things Cloud to store data. The app costs $10 on iOS and $50 on macOS. The high price on macOS is the main reason why the majority are looking for Thing 3 alternatives on Mac.
Manage Tasks Like a Professional
Both apps predetermined the basics with various functions. Apple Reminders is free, has location-based tasks, and works seamlessly with Siri. Things 3 looks better, has calendar integration, and offers a premium experience for a price.
Next: Google Tasks is a to-do app by the search giant. But it’s bare bones compared to the competition. Read the post below to know its alternatives on iOS and Android.
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