Used for years. Essential app for organization.
I’ve used OmniFocus for about 6 years now and I still love it. Many reviewing this app want it to be something it’s not. It’s a to-do list. However, it is the most powerful to-do app you will ever use. It is for organizing projects down to a granular level. It’s for people who have multiple facets of life and each needs its own special organization for their tasks. It’s for sorting related tasks into however you want to view them. It’s for alerting you about your tasks in any way you wish. It is insanely powerful and customizable. I use it for everyday to-do lists. I also used it to manage my entire last year of university when I was 39 and had a full time job and family. I use it for all of that too. This is the best organizing tool I’ve ever used. It especially helps me being bipolar and autistic when I forget about things I need to do. It always reminds me.
Keep up the good work! I can’t wait for v4!
Keep up the good work! I can’t wait for v4!
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BEWARE
Absolute garbage, scam app. Paid full price to "buy" the already overpriced OmniFocus app when it was released, only for it to become quickly obsolete and no longer maintaining even the most basic function of a simple text editing & notetaking feature. Now when you go to open up that OmniFocus app, that you supposedly own, all it allows you to see is a "proof" picture receipt that you do "own" it that they then have the audacity to say can be used to gain a discount[!] on a future version for which they now want your [more, and more, and more] money. Which brings us, finally, to now, a time when the forty-fifty dollar iPhone/iPad app is now - get this - FREE. But only so for two weeks. And only so if you create an account with them, and hand over to them your credit card payment information, with which they can indeed very soon begin charging you with recurring dings that are even higher, forgetting for a moment the matter of frequency, than they were at the beginning. GARBAGE.
Belongs in the trash disposal, or flush down the commode with the other human economic waste.
Belongs in the trash disposal, or flush down the commode with the other human economic waste.
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Lacking polish
I use and love OmniFocus on the Mac. It’s wildly powerful, and I’ve extended it with community plugins and my own Keyboard Maestro macros. The iOS app feels like more of an afterthought that hasn’t gotten the same attention. Where the Omnigroup excels at Mac software, it lags on adopting a lot of conventions that make for great iPhone and iPad apps. An example of this is swiping left or right on tasks. Many apps make use of multiple actions that can be custom mapped, so that sliding over a little in one direction gives you access to a couple actions, and more when you swipe in the other. OmniFocus doesn’t offer that level of customization. That means that, in my experience, you end up doing way more tapping to organize or even access tasks, and move more slowly in dealing with them.
I use and love this software if the Mac, and feel like I shelled out $50 for what basically amounts to a way to simply see my tasks on mobile, rather than getting a good task manager.
I use and love this software if the Mac, and feel like I shelled out $50 for what basically amounts to a way to simply see my tasks on mobile, rather than getting a good task manager.
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Was amazing but lately…
I have used Omnifocus for YEARS and it has always been my go to. It has always bee 5 stars, however for the last few months, it takes FOREVER to load on my phone and frequently freezes or shuts down while I’m using it. It also isn’t syncing reliably with my other devices. If this keeps up I will have to look for a new program to use. 😢. I can’t sit for 3 minutes for it to load to be able to add something or check it off! Please fix! 🙏🏻
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Making me pay again
I like this app. But I spent a decent amount of money on it just a few years ago. Now I am told it’s discontinued and I have to buy it again. Its disappointing. I guess they need to make money too, but try to get new customers rather than tax your existing ones. The app market doesn’t work like old software did and I don’t feel good about having to rebuy effectively the same product twice. Had I bought the product a year later I would have only had to buy it once. If I buy this new update, how long until it’s no good?
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Incredible
Longtime user, 8+ years.
To put it simply OmniFocus lives up to its name. As any great tool - it’s power and utility is determined through the work of the user rather than the tool itself.
The first two years were overwhelming. The next three were revelatory. Since then - it’s proved only to be indefatigable and indispensable. The most powerful thing you can do is consider and craft your Perspectives to suit your needs. Tags and Projects are only a foundation to GTD/organization. It takes persistent focus and flexibility (given energy levels - a quick store trip might fit best in OmniFocus to auto appear on arrival or a scrap sheet of paper impervious to fall damage) - and over time — you’ll have exactly curated task lists appearing only as needed and most critically just in time/place through location-initiated arrival & departure tags, completing the Review tab and respecting defer vs. due dates(overdue has to bring consequence). I simply adore The Omni Group for their endeavors, as OmniOutliner is equally compelling. Stay hungry. Stay foolish.
To put it simply OmniFocus lives up to its name. As any great tool - it’s power and utility is determined through the work of the user rather than the tool itself.
The first two years were overwhelming. The next three were revelatory. Since then - it’s proved only to be indefatigable and indispensable. The most powerful thing you can do is consider and craft your Perspectives to suit your needs. Tags and Projects are only a foundation to GTD/organization. It takes persistent focus and flexibility (given energy levels - a quick store trip might fit best in OmniFocus to auto appear on arrival or a scrap sheet of paper impervious to fall damage) - and over time — you’ll have exactly curated task lists appearing only as needed and most critically just in time/place through location-initiated arrival & departure tags, completing the Review tab and respecting defer vs. due dates(overdue has to bring consequence). I simply adore The Omni Group for their endeavors, as OmniOutliner is equally compelling. Stay hungry. Stay foolish.
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There is no equal.
OmniFocus by the Omni Group helps me run my business. I'm a GTD practitioner and have tried ALL OF THE APPS. OmniFocus allows me to create my very own workflow, and doesn't tell me how tasks should be structured. The watch app allows you to receive a perspective from the iPhone and work with it locally on the wrist. Very cool. Can't believe I have not actually taken the time to write a review as I have used the app since 2012. Looking forward to ver. 4, and will gladly pay to update the app when the time comes, and I use it on Mac and iPad, too. Made by great folks (who I have had the pleasure of meeting at their previous office) who care a LOT about customer experience. I can tell you: just take the plunge, take it slow, develop your own workflow, and only use the power features when/if the need arrives. Thanks, Omni Group!
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Meets you where you are
I’ve tried a few task managers and this is the one I’ve stuck with for several years now. You can be as simple or as intricate as you want with it. Honestly, you can just begin using it by adding tasks to the inbox and checking them off from there without getting into the other functionality - then add in the other capabilities (projects, task groups, folders, tags, etc) if and when you need them or want them. Once you really get going with OmniFocus, one of a few standout features of it vs other task managers is the ability to create custom perspectives. Once you figure out how you want to use these for your own life and work, they are incredibly powerful. Many excellent resources exist out there for getting the most of this wonderful software, and the company is a great one to support. (I also personally love OmniOutliner and have both it and OmniFocus on all my Apple devices - in fact, they are the only two pieces of software I have my Mac automatically start when I log in.)
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If you’ve struggled with the plethora of other options - this is the one…
I had originally passed over Omnifocus because it was so Apple-centric. That was a mistake. Microsoft has had decades to improve the task manager in Outlook. Complete fail. Thank you Omnifocus for providing the tools to create a microcosm of where I can create an environment, including MY structure (folders, projects and tags) where I can comfortably and reliably dump the contents of my brain. Don’t bother with so many of the other apps, too numerous to name here. Start with Omnifocus. Develop the structure that works for you. Be patient. With time, the method will emerge. You’ll wonder how you ever did without. Did I mention that your tasks can be synced to the cloud and you’ll be working with the same task list on your iPhone, iPad and Mac? Everything a task manager should be - none of the gimmicks that shouldn’t.
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Worth every penny for those who need it
OmniFocus is not for everybody, and by app standards it is pricey. But it is by far the best task planner and manager available, with simplicity in day to day use but tons of functionality to set things up the way that is best for you to get things done. It is well integrated across Apple platforms and handles Siri well, so it blends in to the day well for its target audience of professionals who want to seriously manage and control their personal time and attention. I have not needed support much but when I have it has been quick, comprehensive, and professional. This is the sort of application I am happy to pay subscription rates for to ensure its continued support. It is great.
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Best productivity app
I’ve been using this app for years. I ran into my first issue because of an iOS upgrade. I sent an email and got a response with a few hours to fix it. So, not only has the app been great for years without any issues...the one time an issue did pop up (not Omni’s fault) they had it taken care of immediately. Great app - I use it on on the iPad, iPhone and Mac...and I love the fact I can talk to the Apple Watch to add tasks seamlessly into Omni. Awesome!
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Dated and Cumbersome
Omnifocus was the first real productivity app I used on iOS way back in 2011, and it doesn’t look like it has changed much since then. The app does not work well with gestures on iOS and seems to really want to be a Mac-only app (I have no idea how well the web app works), or at least is designed to work best on Mac, with iOS and iPadOS versions not working as well.
Creating smart perspectives seems buggy, in that sometimes the right tasks show up given perspective parameters, and sometimes no tasks show up. It struggles with ID’ing what tasks are “available” as opposed to “remaining,” and needs some updating as to perspectives and search.
Notes are hidden away when they should be front and center with a task.
Setting repeating tasks is confusing, not the least because sometimes repeating tasks don’t become available when they seem like they should. I think other productivity apps have passed Omnifocus by in terms of ease of use, design, and search, especially on mobile and tablet.
Improves and Sustains:
If I had a prioritized wish list of improvements to Omnifocus, I would recommend improving perspectives, particularly by making them work consistently in the same fashion; I would recommend improving the repeating task functionality; and I would update the design to better use space, as the app looks cluttered. I suppose scripting is something I would sustain, but I don’t really use scripting any more.
Creating smart perspectives seems buggy, in that sometimes the right tasks show up given perspective parameters, and sometimes no tasks show up. It struggles with ID’ing what tasks are “available” as opposed to “remaining,” and needs some updating as to perspectives and search.
Notes are hidden away when they should be front and center with a task.
Setting repeating tasks is confusing, not the least because sometimes repeating tasks don’t become available when they seem like they should. I think other productivity apps have passed Omnifocus by in terms of ease of use, design, and search, especially on mobile and tablet.
Improves and Sustains:
If I had a prioritized wish list of improvements to Omnifocus, I would recommend improving perspectives, particularly by making them work consistently in the same fashion; I would recommend improving the repeating task functionality; and I would update the design to better use space, as the app looks cluttered. I suppose scripting is something I would sustain, but I don’t really use scripting any more.
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No Widgets. Subscription-based on the horizon
OmniFocus design is starting to look long in the tooth, it hasn’t changed in over 4 years. Lately they have been very slow to update for new features in iOS. I love the app, but even after shelling out all of the cash for the iOS app and Mac app, I’m seriously considering switching to one of the many options with more frequent updates that are steadily increasing value. OmniFocus gets updates but only bug fixes. By the way, I get the feeling that they are on the verge of moving to a subscription model for all their apps. If it becomes mandatory for OmniFocus, that will definitely be the last straw. I don’t need another subscription service that adds no extra value. For those who haven’t bought into this app, I say start somewhere else first and wait to see what the next version of OmniFocus is (if you can wait that long)
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I keep coming back
Much of the “negative” reviews are opinions about the licensing model, learning curve, etc.
Pricing model: I bought the app + pro upgrade for iOS. I’d love to have it on my Mac but don’t want to pay for it. While it would be nice, I don’t consider it crucial at this time because the iPad is more than sufficient.
Learning curve: If you want an app that works “out of the box” then pass this one by. If you want one that can completely revolutionize your thought process around organizing your life then check it out. Be prepared to invest time in learning how to best use it and tweaking your method.
Pricing model: I bought the app + pro upgrade for iOS. I’d love to have it on my Mac but don’t want to pay for it. While it would be nice, I don’t consider it crucial at this time because the iPad is more than sufficient.
Learning curve: If you want an app that works “out of the box” then pass this one by. If you want one that can completely revolutionize your thought process around organizing your life then check it out. Be prepared to invest time in learning how to best use it and tweaking your method.
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The best of the BEST
I have been using OmniFocus since 2011. Each new version whether major or minor update makes the app better. A lot of people pass up this app because it’s either too expensive or too cumbersome. The old saying “you can’t judge a book by it’s cover” is defiantly true here. Yes, it is expensive, but it pays for itself in how easy your life can become if you take the time to use it. It can be as hard or easy as you wish. Over the almost 10 years I’ve used it I have learned things along the way that I wishe I had known earlier. There are several resources online with video tutorials, to help you get started. Their new subscription model will make it easier for those on a budget. Not enough can be said about the custom perspectives. I’ve got several set up for different things like work, grocery store, Netflix items I want to see. When I walk into the grocery store, I tap the grocery store perspective and all the grocery items I entered in are there. Something in the future? No problem, set the deferred date for the date in the future, and forget about it. OmniFocus will bring it back in view on that date. Do you have trouble remembering to review your task list, don’t worrry OmniFocus reminds you to do that at whatever interval you want. It really is the BEST when it comes to task or project management.
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The most powerful and flexible
With OmniFocus, I can handle just about any project or chore that comes up. The app is designed around customization (of your productivity workflow), and it shows. I currently use Now, Next, and Soon tags to organize my actions, with a sprinkling of tasks with actual due dates, but I can tweak my workflow just about any way that I want to. This level of power combined with usability keeps me coming back to OmniFocus despite having tried just about every other task management app out there. My only desire is that OmniFocus was as innovative and smooth UI-wise as the newer apps. But this is a minor complaint.
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Over the cliff
Omnifocus has added share sheet functionality to the iPad. You can now add Taskpaper format and raw html wherever you find them useful. Words fail me.
As we all deal with the coronavirus pandemic, it is crucial to have effective tools. Life is at once simple and complicated. OF may or may not handle complicated for you, but it definitely doesn’t do simple. People are spending hundreds of dollars on third-party instruction.
Omnifocus and I never really clicked, even though I am well-versed in GTD, and have spent more time with it than any other task manager. In principle, it does what I want. In practice, I find it very hard to use. The user interface is needlessly complex, and pulls attention away from your tasks. There are dark corners where the way it works can only be determined by experiment. iOS and Mac versions do not always work the same way. For example, the built-in Flagged views sort completely differently on the two platforms. There is an entire cottage industry devoted to telling people how to use it, and there’s a reason. It is slow, and many features are clunky. Drag and drop is very awkward. I would make it a program of last resort for most people.
As we all deal with the coronavirus pandemic, it is crucial to have effective tools. Life is at once simple and complicated. OF may or may not handle complicated for you, but it definitely doesn’t do simple. People are spending hundreds of dollars on third-party instruction.
Omnifocus and I never really clicked, even though I am well-versed in GTD, and have spent more time with it than any other task manager. In principle, it does what I want. In practice, I find it very hard to use. The user interface is needlessly complex, and pulls attention away from your tasks. There are dark corners where the way it works can only be determined by experiment. iOS and Mac versions do not always work the same way. For example, the built-in Flagged views sort completely differently on the two platforms. There is an entire cottage industry devoted to telling people how to use it, and there’s a reason. It is slow, and many features are clunky. Drag and drop is very awkward. I would make it a program of last resort for most people.
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Amazing Program
OmniFocus is by far the best reminders app for work. On the surface it keeps everything sorted and organized way better than anything I’ve used in the past. I had a little trouble getting my phone and tablet to sync to my Mac correctly but that may have been user error. Once i got it working though it was amazing and the shortcuts on the Mac side have made my days so much easier. I used to forget to set reminders but on the Mac regardless of what program your in you can just hit “control, option, space” and a window pops up to add a new reminder. It’s awesome. The custom perspectives are also a very cool feature that lets you sort and view just what you need, filtering out anything thats not relevant. Those custom perspectives then sync over to all my devices. There is a lot more i need to learn to use this app to its full potential, it has a high learning curve but what I’ve gotten from it so far is incredible.
My only gripe is that the subscription price of $9.99 a month seems steep. I get why they need a subscription model to stay in business but i think $4.99 would be a much more reasonable price for what is essentially a reminders app (albeit a amazing reminders app). Hopefully they bring the price down to a more reasonable level, then i would recommend it to everyone and give it a much deserved 5 star.
My only gripe is that the subscription price of $9.99 a month seems steep. I get why they need a subscription model to stay in business but i think $4.99 would be a much more reasonable price for what is essentially a reminders app (albeit a amazing reminders app). Hopefully they bring the price down to a more reasonable level, then i would recommend it to everyone and give it a much deserved 5 star.
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OF user for many years
OmniFocus is the reason I switched over to iOS after trying so many GTD apps. The price may see hefty, but that’s the only way to support its development by Omni’s great team. Omni Group has a great reputation and their apps are best in class on Mac and iOS. I trust them so much that I live my entire life though the lens of OmniFocus. It amazes me how some people can feel so entitled to expect so much for so little. How is the power and flexibility to managing one’s whole life priorities (in a GTD way) worth only $10 or less to these people? The value of OF doesn’t come from its price. Yet, it’s price is low for what it does and the upgrades for OF 3 haven’t stopped coming. Thank you from a user of OF 1, OF 2 and OF 3.
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Ripped off
I bought the first OmniFocus a few years back for the hefty price tag of $40, thinking that such an exorbitant upfront cost would come with excellent customer service and updates for years to come. When my app started having some bugs I checked if there was an update that I missed, instead they had made 2 new paid versions since I had updated. I went to upgrade and neither the App Store nor the company acknowledged my first purchase to allow a discounted upgrade and instead directed me to just subscribe. After using it for a few months, I realized that I had now spent another $50 on my subscription. I asked to just commute what I had spent towards owning the app. No love. This company is greedy and although the product is good, they exploit the loyalty of their customers.
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