7 Best 17hats alternatives for freelancers & agencies (2026) - when you need more than basic automation

17hats is made for solo freelancers who want one tool to handle the admin steps of client work. It's good enough for intake and paperwork automation, but once work becomes ongoing, you still need tasks, files, feedback, changes, and client updates in a place that stays organized.

This page explains what 17hats is good at, where it falls behind, and the best alternatives in 2026 for freelancers and agencies.

Last updated January 2026

What is 17hats

17hats is a freelancer automation tool built around set workflows. Use 17hats to set up intake forms, email sequences, proposals, contracts, invoices, and reminders that run automatically for each client to reduce manual follow up.

TLDR (summary)

17hats is good for automating intake, proposals, contracts, and invoices. But once the client signs, it doesn't help you run the actual project with tasks, files, and client visibility. If you want admin automation plus real project management tied to the same workflow, Plutio is the most complete 17hats alternative for freelancers and agencies in 2026.

Choose Plutio over 17hats so the proposal you send becomes the project you run, the signed contract starts the workflow, and your client sees tasks, files, and progress in one branded portal.

What 17hats does well

17hats is built for solo freelancers who want to automate the admin steps around client work. It's especially strong when you want one tool to handle forms, emails, proposals, contracts, invoices, and reminders in a set order.

It fits best if you mainly want to reduce admin and keep your process consistent, and you do not need deep project management or client collaboration inside the same tool.

17hats works well for:

Capturing leads with forms and basic intake
Sending follow up emails and reminders automatically
Sending proposals, contracts, and invoices from templates
Taking payments on invoices and tracking what's paid
Running simple automations based on triggers you set
Keeping basic client info tied to your documents

For solo freelancers who want admin automation first, it's a solid fit if you manage projects and client updates somewhere else.

Where 17hats falls short

17hats works well until the work becomes ongoing and you need to manage projects, manage tasks and files, and track progress in a clean way. Once clients expect updates, files, feedback, and clear next steps in one place, you end up using other tools.

That gap shows up when you send the paperwork in 17hats, then rebuild the project in a task tool, then updates and feedback spread across email.

Common gaps include:

Basic project management that stops at simple task lists
No strong way to handle files and feedback tied to tasks
No clear progress view clients can check without emailing you
Limited collaboration options when you add a teammate
Client access that feels limited for ongoing project work
A dated feel that can reflect on your brand

Most people switch when they need admin automation and project management to live together, not split across apps.

17hats was designed for sole proprietors and it shows. There are no advanced client and project controls, which makes it very difficult to scale as soon as you have more than one person in the app.
VR
Verified ReviewerAgency Owner

Criteria for a professional 17hats alternative

A professional 17hats alternative should keep the automation that handles the administrative workload, but it also needs to support real project management once the work starts. It should connect proposals, contracts, invoices, payments, tasks, files, and updates so the whole job stays organized.

The goal is one place where the agreement, the work, and the billing stay tied together, so you do not need extra tools.

A strong alternative should include:

Proposals and contracts tied to the same project, so you don't re enter details
Project management for tasks, deadlines, and timelines, so work stays clear day to day
Files and feedback tied to tasks, so reviews and changes do not get lost
Client portal access for progress and next steps, so clients don't chase updates
Invoices and payments tied to the project or milestones, so billing matches the work
Team permissions, so you can add help without losing control
Branding controls for client facing pages, so it looks like your business

The connection between agreements and projects is what separates a single purpose tool from a complete client work tool.

#1. Plutio - 17hats Alternative

17hats handles the admin part of freelancing. Proposals, contracts, invoices, reminders - you set up the workflow once and it runs on autopilot. That first client intake feels smooth.

Then the client signs, and you realize: now you have to actually do the work. And 17hats doesn't help with that. No real project management. No place for tasks, files, and feedback. No portal where clients can see what's happening. So you open another app to set up the project. You copy the scope. You paste the details. You send the client somewhere else entirely.

That's the break. The tool that was supposed to simplify your business just created a gap between getting hired and doing the work.

Plutio closes that gap. When a proposal is accepted and a contract is signed, the project is already there. Tasks are created from the scope. The client has portal access. Onboarding forms collect what you need. You don't rebuild anything because the agreement and the work are connected.

What this actually looks like

Say you're a consultant. A lead fills out your intake form. Here's what happens next in Plutio:

You send a proposal with your packages and pricing
The client picks a package and signs
A project appears with tasks like "Kickoff call," "Gather requirements," "First deliverable"
An invoice is attached to the project, ready to send
The client gets a branded portal where they can see progress and upload files
You start working. No setup. No copying. No switching apps.

The proposal you sent becomes the project you run. That's the difference.

Why this matters more than it sounds

When your admin tool and your work tool are disconnected, things slip. You forget a deliverable. The client asks for an update and you scramble. The invoice doesn't match the scope. It's not catastrophic, but it's constant friction.

When everything is connected:

Clients see their project status without asking you
Invoices match the work because they're tied to the same scope
You don't lose track of what you promised
Reminders and follow-ups happen automatically based on real project steps

Real results from Plutio customers: YazMarketing boosted their sales pipeline by 80% with automated proposals. West 7th Design Studio reduced client support calls by 90% using dashboards and inbox. Cheri Lasota halved her admin workload. These results come from having everything connected instead of scattered across tools.

What about switching?

You can import your clients and data from 17hats into Plutio. Plutio has been refined for over 10 years based on real feedback from freelancers and agencies who use it every day.

With Plutio we don't jump between apps anymore! Everything from projects to invoicing is finally connected in one fully-branded app.
YM
Yazan & MawahebYazMarketing

#2. HoneyBook

HoneyBook handles client intake, scheduling, and payments in a structured way. This approach makes HoneyBook appealing early on, especially for freelancers who want a clean process for handling new leads and getting paid without much setup. Proposals, contracts, and payments are all supported, and the experience is centered around moving a client from inquiry to booking.

Where HoneyBook becomes limiting is after the agreement is in place. Project management and task tracking are basic, automation is limited to simple triggers, and ongoing client communication is not deeply tied to the work itself. As a result, many freelancers end up managing project work, updates, and collaboration outside HoneyBook.

HoneyBook works well if you mainly need intake, scheduling, and payments in one place.

It is less suitable if you want projects, tasks, and client communication to stay connected and continue naturally after a contract is signed.

Great to get into, but never try to leave. You'll hate them. It is very difficult to manage workflows and export your data efficiently if you decide to switch.
AP
Austin P.Small Business Owner

#3. Dubsado

Dubsado is known for its flexibility. It offers advanced forms, custom fields, and rule-based automation that allow freelancers to build highly customized intake and approval flows.

It supports proposals, contracts, invoice scheduling, and complex intake logic, which makes it attractive for freelancers who want fine-grained control over how information is collected and processed. Many users choose Dubsado specifically for its ability to model detailed workflows.

The trade-off is complexity. Initial setup can take significant time, workflows often require ongoing maintenance, and changes to one part of the app can affect others. While intake and automation are powerful, project work and day-to-day project management are usually handled in separate tools.

Dubsado works well if you want deep customization and complex intake flows.

It is less suitable if you want a simple, connected app that stays easy to manage during daily client work.

If you're looking for Dubsado to work for an email campaign, it's not really what it's set up for. Its workflows do not work well for drip campaigns with complex triggers.
MR
Michelle R.Business Consultant

#4. FreshBooks

FreshBooks is primarily an accounting and invoicing platform. It is built to handle invoicing, payments, time tracking, expenses, and basic financial reporting.

For freelancers who need help managing finances, FreshBooks manages bookkeeping and invoicing well. Invoicing and payment collection are straightforward, and the platform is focused on bookkeeping accuracy rather than workflow design.

FreshBooks is not designed for proposals, contracts, onboarding, project setup, or client communication. To fill this gap, freelancers typically pair it with other tools to manage agreements and project work.

FreshBooks works well if your main need is accounting and invoicing.

It is not a fit if you want to manage the full workflow from proposal to project work in one connected app.

The pricing tiers are a major pain point. You're limited on the number of clients you can have, and it gets expensive quickly as you grow. Plus, the project management side is very underdeveloped.
VR
Verified ReviewerBusiness Owner

#5. Bonsai

Bonsai is built for freelancers who need proposals, contracts, time tracking, and invoicing in one place. Bonsai focuses on the legal and financial side of freelance work.

What makes Bonsai appealing is its contract templates library and automated tax calculation for US freelancers. The proposal builder is straightforward, and it handles the basics of client billing well.

Where Bonsai becomes limiting is project management. Task tracking is minimal, there's no team collaboration beyond basic file sharing, and client portals are primarily for viewing documents rather than interactive project work. As a result, agencies growing beyond solo work often outgrow it.

Bonsai works well if you're a US-based solo freelancer who mainly needs contracts and tax-ready invoicing.

It is less suitable if you want connected project management, team collaboration, or advanced client portal features.

Bon sai is great for solo freelancers, but once you start scaling and need more advanced features for client management and team collaboration, you'll need to look elsewhere.
VR
Verified ReviewerFreelance Designer

#6. SuiteDash

SuiteDash is a platform that leans heavily into whitelabeling and client portals. It is often chosen by those who want to build a fully branded "Client Office" experience with custom dashboards and data-collection flows.

Where SuiteDash can be overwhelming is its complex UI and steep learning curve. While SuiteDash covers many features, the user experience is often described as technical and less intuitive compared to Plutio’s modern, streamlined design.

SuiteDash works well if you need deep customization and a fully branded client portal experience.

It is less suitable if you want a user-friendly, intuitive system that is easy for both you and your clients to navigate from day one.

Which alternative fits you best?

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Final verdict

What the data shows

We reviewed ratings, workflows, and customer stories to understand how 17hats and Plutio compare for solo freelancers and growing teams.

G2 ratings: 17hats holds 4.6 stars from 114 reviews. Plutio holds 4.3 stars from 57 reviews. 17hats reviews often highlight reliability and simplicity for one-person businesses.

How this plays out in real work: 17hats works well when you're running a straightforward solo operation. You can manage leads, send contracts, invoice clients, and automate basic follow-ups. As soon as work starts involving collaborators, shared files, or more structured project tracking, the tool starts to feel stretched.

When you look at the broader picture in our comparison table, Plutio's advantage shows up in how it handles collaboration and delivery without forcing you to switch systems.

Customer outcomes: After switching to Plutio, Cheri Lasota reduced admin work by 50% by keeping proposals, projects, and delivery in one place.

The bottom line: 17hats is a solid choice for staying solo. Plutio is designed to grow with you when your work does.

Plutio brings projects, invoicing, and client communication together in a single, fully‑branded workspace.
Yazan & MawahebYazMarketing

17hats alternatives comparison table

How each tool compares across key capabilities.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Manage projects and tasks	Fully flexible project and task setup you can shape to your workflow	Projects with pipelines and to-dos	Projects with task lists and pipeline	Projects with task boards	Flexible project management with multiple modules
Project roles and permissions	Control exactly who can view or edit each part of a project	3 user levels (paid plans only)	5 team roles with project access control	3 fixed roles (Basic, Accountant, Admin)	You can control project access using roles and permission rules
Multiple task boards	Unlimited boards to run parallel workflows in the same project	Single to-do list only	You cannot use task boards	You cannot use task boards	You can create multiple boards, but each must be configured manually
Embeddable project boards	Live project boards embedded into client portals or websites	No external project viewing	You cannot embed project views	You cannot embed project views	You cannot embed live project boards externally
Sharable project boards	Read-only public links for sharing progress without risk	No read-only project links	You can share projects via the client portal only	You can share via the client portal only	You can share projects using permission-based access
Project stages and milestones	Define custom project lifecycles for different types of work	You cannot define stages or milestones	You can use pipeline stages, but they are predefined	You can use project statuses, but no milestones	You can define stages and milestones per project
Connected proposals, contracts, and invoices	Everything related stays connected to the project automatically	All modules connect to the project lifecycle	Integrated via Smart Files	Proposals, contracts, and invoices live inside projects	Modules are separate but can be linked manually
Custom project data fields	Track, sort, filter, and report on custom project data	Limited custom fields	Basic custom fields	Basic custom fields	Custom fields available
Kanban boards	Drag-and-drop tasks across customizable columns	Legacy list-based interface only	You cannot view tasks in a kanban board	You cannot view tasks in a kanban board	You can view and manage tasks in Kanban boards
Table view	Bulk-edit tasks like a spreadsheet	No spreadsheet-style editing	You cannot view tasks in a table	You cannot view tasks in a table	You can view records in tables, but columns and behavior are rigid
List view	Clean task lists with clear hierarchy	You can manage tasks as simple to-do lists	You can view projects in a list	You can manage tasks in simple lists	You can manage tasks in a standard list view
Calendar view	See tasks and deadlines on a calendar	You can see tasks and bookings on a calendar	You can see bookings on a calendar	You can see deadlines and appointments on a calendar	You can see tasks and deadlines on a calendar
Gantt view	Plan work visually with task order and dependencies	No Gantt chart feature	You cannot view work on a gantt chart	You cannot view work on a gantt chart	Gantt charts are available for project planning
Subtasks	Break work down into multiple nested levels	All tasks are single-level only	You cannot split tasks into subtasks	You cannot split tasks into subtasks	You can break tasks into subtasks
Email to task	Turn emails into tasks without manual copying	Not supported (email sync only)	Not supported (email sync only)	You cannot create tasks from emails	Included
Task comments	Keep discussions tied directly to each task	You cannot comment directly on tasks	You cannot comment on tasks	You cannot comment on tasks	You can comment directly on tasks
Task attachments	Store files directly on the task they belong to	You cannot attach files to tasks	You can share files, but not attach them to tasks	You can upload files, but not attach them to tasks	You can attach files directly to tasks
Task priorities	Define priority levels that fit your workflow	You cannot set task priority levels	You cannot set task priorities	You cannot set task priorities	You can assign priorities to tasks
Task labels & color coding	Use unlimited labels to visually organize tasks	You cannot tag or color-code tasks	You cannot label or color-code tasks	You cannot label or color-code tasks	You can label and color-code tasks
Multiple task assignees	Assign tasks to one or multiple teammates	Single assignee per task only	You cannot assign tasks to multiple people	You cannot assign tasks to multiple people	You can assign multiple people, but coordination is manual
Task templates	Reuse task-level structures across projects	You can reuse task lists through workflows	You cannot reuse task templates	You can reuse workflows and form templates	You can reuse task templates
Task permissions	Control access at the individual task level	You cannot control permissions per task	You cannot set permissions per task	You cannot set permissions per task	Permissions are controlled by roles, not per-task rules
Task dependencies	Prevent work from starting out of order	Not supported	You cannot link tasks together	You cannot link tasks together	You can define task dependencies
Recurring tasks	Automate repeating work with flexible schedules	Basic recurring	You cannot create recurring tasks	You cannot create recurring tasks	You can create recurring tasks
Custom task data fields	Add task-level fields for tracking custom details	Limited custom fields	Basic custom fields	Basic custom fields	Custom fields available
TIME TRACKING	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Time tracking system	Easily track time using timers or manual entries	Start and stop timers or log time manually	You cannot track time	You cannot track time	You can track time using timers or manual entry
Task-level tracking	Log time directly against tasks and subtasks	You cannot track time per task	You cannot track time per task	You cannot track time per task	You can track time directly on tasks
Project-level tracking	See time spent per project and per client	Track time across different projects and clients	You cannot track time per project	You cannot track time per project	You can track total time per project
Billable time tracking	Clearly separate billable and non-billable time	You cannot set billing rules for time	You cannot bill time automatically	You cannot bill time automatically	You must manually define what counts as billable
Billable time invoicing	Turn tracked time into invoices without extra steps	Convert tracked billable time into an invoice	There is no time to invoice	There is no time to invoice	Tracked time can be invoiced with manual confirmation
Timesheet reports	View detailed time reports by task, project, or client	You cannot generate timesheet reports	You cannot generate timesheets	You cannot generate timesheets	You can generate detailed time reports
Team timesheets	See how each team member tracks their time	No team breakdown for time entries	You cannot see team time reports	You cannot see team time reports	You can view time logs per team member
PROPOSALS	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Create and send proposals	Create proposals clients can review, approve, and sign in one flow	Quotes with limited design options	Smart files combine proposals and contracts	Proposals with pricing tables	Proposals with line items and attachments
Drag-and-drop proposal builder	Create custom, branded proposals without layout limits or code	You cannot drag and drop proposal sections	You can edit sections, not free drag-and-drop	You can build proposals using drag-and-drop forms	You can edit proposals visually, but layout control is complex
Reusable proposal templates	Reuse proven proposal layouts across clients	Save and reuse your own proposal templates	You can use proposal templates	You can use proposal templates	You can use prebuilt proposal templates
Real-time proposal analytics	See exactly when proposals are opened and reviewed	You cannot see proposal views or activity	You can see when a proposal is viewed	You cannot see proposal view analytics	You can see status changes, not detailed viewing analytics
Live messenger on proposals	Answer questions directly while clients review proposals	You cannot chat inside proposals	You cannot chat inside proposals	You cannot chat inside proposals	You cannot message clients inside proposals
Proposal flow automation	Move from proposal to contract, invoice, or booking automatically	Limited flow (no integrated scheduler sync)	Complete Smart Files flow	You can add proposal items like services or products	Limited proposal-to-booking flow
Convert proposal to invoice	Create invoices directly from approved proposals	You can turn accepted proposals into invoices	Accepted proposals create invoices	Accepted proposals create invoices	You can convert proposals to invoices with manual steps
Packages and add-ons	Offer upsells and add-ons directly inside proposals	You cannot offer configurable packages	You can offer packages and add-ons	You can offer packages and add-ons	You can create packages using configuration rules
Interactive pricing tables	Let clients choose options before approving	Pricing tables are static	Pricing updates dynamically	Pricing updates based on selections	Pricing tables exist but do not update dynamically
Dynamic data and variables	Auto-fill proposal content with client and project data	Use tokens to insert client and project data automatically	You can use smart fields	You can use smart fields	You can use variables to auto-fill proposal content
Expiration dates	Automatically expire proposals after a set date	You cannot set proposal expiry dates	You can set proposal expiry	You cannot set proposal expiry dates	You can set proposal expiration dates
PDF Export	Download as branded PDFs	You can download proposals as PDFs	You can download proposal PDFs	You can download proposal PDFs	You can download proposals as PDFs
Reusable content blocks	Create reusable proposal sections you can reuse on demand	Save and reuse sections across different documents	You can reuse proposal sections	You can reuse form sections	You can reuse content via templates, not blocks
Legally binding e-signatures	Collect secure electronic signatures on proposals	Clients can sign your agreements online	Clients can sign online	Clients can sign documents online	Clients can sign proposals online
Custom proposal data fields	Create custom proposal data you can sort, filter, and report on	Not supported. You cannot customize signer fields	Basic custom fields	Basic custom fields	Custom fields available with configuration
CONTRACTS	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Create and sign contracts	Create, send, and sign contracts in one continuous flow	Contracts with e-signature capture	Smart files combine contracts and invoices	Contract creation with automation	Full contract management
Drag-and-drop contract builder	Create fully custom contracts with flexible layouts, no code or formatting limits	You cannot visually build contracts	You cannot visually build contracts	You can build contracts using form blocks	Contracts use structured templates, not free-form builders
Legally binding e-signatures	Collect secure signatures with audit trails and signer verification	E-signatures meet standard legal requirements	Contracts support legal e-signatures	Contracts support legal e-signatures	Contracts support legally binding signatures
Multi-signature / signees	Collect signatures from multiple people on the same contract	You cannot collect signatures from multiple people	You can collect multiple signatures, with fixed roles	You can collect multiple signatures, setup is limited	You can add multiple signers to contracts
Reusable contract templates	Reuse contract structures to create new agreements faster	You can use contract templates	You can use contract templates	You can use contract templates	You can use predefined contract templates
Auto-reminders automation	Automatically follow up until contracts are signed	You can send automatic reminders	You can send automatic reminders	Reminders send automatically	Signing reminders send automatically
Dynamic data/variables	Auto-fill contract content with client and project data	You can insert custom fields	You can use smart fields in contracts	You can use smart fields in contracts	Variables auto-fill contract fields
Contract automation triggers	Trigger automated workflows the moment a contract is signed	Contracts can trigger workflows	Contracts can trigger workflows	Contracts trigger workflows	Contracts can trigger workflows only if configured
View notifications	See when contracts are opened and reviewed	You receive email notifications	You receive contract notifications	You receive signing notifications	You receive notifications when contracts are viewed or signed
PDF download with signature certificate	Download signed contracts with official proof of signature	You can download signed PDFs	You can download signed PDFs	You can download signed PDFs	Signed contracts can be downloaded with certificates
Custom signer data fields	Collect structured signer information during signing	Not supported. You cannot customize signer fields	You cannot customize signer fields	You cannot customize signer fields	Signer fields are configurable with limits
Custom contract data fields	Create custom contract data you can sort, filter, and report on	Not supported	Basic custom fields	Basic custom fields	Custom fields available with configuration
INVOICES & PAYMENTS	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Create invoices and get paid	Send invoices and collect payments in one connected flow	Invoices with Stripe and PayPal	Invoices with instant online payments	Invoices with payment plans	Full invoicing with payment tracking
Fully branded invoices	Match invoices to your brand with custom logos, colors, and layout	Basic invoicing (no smart tax automation)	You can brand invoices	You can brand invoices	Invoices support logos, colors, and branding
Drag and drop invoice builder	Create custom invoice layouts visually without formatting limits	Template-based (no drag-and-drop designer)	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Visual builder but complex setup
Customizable line items	Edit pricing, quantities, descriptions, and structure freely	You can customize invoice line items	You can edit line items	You can edit line items	You can edit invoice line items
Item or invoice discounts	Apply discounts at the item or full invoice level	You can add discounts to line items	You can apply discounts	You can apply discounts	You can apply discounts to invoices
Customizable taxes	Create tax rules that match your location and use case	You can set custom tax rules	You can set tax rates	You can set tax rates	You can configure tax rates
ACH payments	Accept bank transfers for lower-fee payments	ACH payments supported	You can accept bank transfers	You can accept bank payments	You can accept bank payments
Stripe integration	Accept credit and debit cards instantly	Stripe integration available	You can accept payments via Stripe	You can accept payments via Stripe	You can accept payments through Stripe
Square integration	Collect in-person payments when needed	Square integration available	You cannot accept payments via Square	You cannot accept payments via Square	You cannot accept payments via Square
PayPal integration	Let clients pay using PayPal	PayPal integration available	You cannot accept payments via PayPal	You cannot accept payments via PayPal	You can accept payments via PayPal
Flexible partial payments	Collect deposits and split payments across milestones	You can set up payment schedules	You can accept partial payments	You can accept partial payments	You can accept partial payments
Payment plans	Break invoices into scheduled installments	You can set up payment schedules	You can split invoices into payments	You can split invoices into payments	You can split invoices into installments
Automated recurring invoices	Automatically send invoices on a recurring schedule	Recurring invoices (no automated subscription portal)	You can schedule payments, not subscriptions	You can schedule invoices, not subscriptions	You can schedule recurring invoices
Subscription management	Manage ongoing client subscriptions and billing	Recurring invoices (no automated subscription portal)	You cannot manage subscriptions	You cannot manage subscriptions	Subscriptions can be managed with setup
Automated payment reminders	Follow up automatically until invoices are paid	Automated reminders supported	Payment reminders send automatically	Payment reminders send automatically	Payment reminders send automatically
Reusable invoice templates	Reuse invoice layouts without rebuilding each time	You can reuse templates and content	You can reuse invoice templates	You can reuse invoice templates	You can reuse invoice templates
Multiple currency support	Bill clients globally in their local currency	Basic support (no automated exchange rates)	You can use one account currency only	You can use one account currency	You can invoice in multiple currencies with account limits
Invoice automation triggers	Trigger automated workflows when invoices are sent or paid	Simple triggers (no multi-step automation)	Contracts can trigger workflows	Contracts trigger workflows	Contracts can trigger workflows only if configured
View notifications	See when invoices are opened and paid	Activity log (no real-time updates)	You receive contract notifications	You receive signing notifications	You receive notifications when contracts are viewed or signed
Built-in expense tracking	Track project-related costs alongside invoices	You can track expenses	You cannot track expenses	You cannot track expenses	You can track expenses
Invoice deposits	Collect upfront payments before work starts	Deposit payments supported	You can request deposits	You can request deposits	You can request invoice deposits
Auto-invoice billable time	Turn tracked time into invoices automatically	You can add tracked time to invoices	There is no time to convert	There is no time to convert	Time can be invoiced with manual confirmation
Custom invoice data fields	Create custom invoice data you can sort, filter, and report on	Limited custom fields	Basic custom fields	Basic custom fields	Custom fields available with configuration
INBOX	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Centralized unified inbox	Manage email, chat, and messages from one shared inbox	Communication is limited to email sync	Messages and emails live in one inbox	Messages and emails live in one place	Messages are grouped by module, not unified
Full email integration	Connect and manage all your email accounts in one place	Email sync & templates included	You can sync your email	You can sync your email	You can sync external email accounts
Embeddable live chat	Add real-time chat to your website and client portals	No native live chat feature	You cannot add live chat to your site	You cannot add live chat to your site	Live chat is available via portal widgets
Instant direct messages	Message teammates privately without leaving your workspace	Email sync only	You cannot DM teammates	You cannot DM teammates	Direct messages exist with limits
Contextual project conversations	Keep conversations tied directly to the project they belong to	Email sync (limited to project-specific threads)	Messages are tied to projects	Messages are tied to projects	Context depends on where the message was sent
Team channels	Create shared spaces for team-wide discussions	Email sync only	You cannot create team channels	You cannot create team channels	You cannot create team chat channels
Customized channels	Organize channels by team, topic, or workflow	Not supported	Channels are not supported	Channels are not supported	Not supported
@mentions	Notify teammates instantly inside conversations	Email sync only	You cannot mention teammates	You cannot mention teammates	@mentions work in specific areas only
Message read receipts	See when messages are read	Activity log (tracks when emails are opened)	You can see when clients read messages	You can see when clients read messages	Read receipts are not consistently visible
File sharing in chat	Share files directly inside conversations	Email sync only	You can share files in messages	You can share files in messages	Files are attached to records, not chat threads
Shared email inbox	Collaborate on incoming emails as a team	Not supported	Team email is not shared	Team email is not shared	Limited team email sharing
Inbox mobile app	Access and respond to messages on mobile	Limited mobile support	Mobile inbox available	Mobile inbox available	Mobile app has limited inbox features
Email reply to inbox	Reply from your email client and keep conversations synced	Email replies sync to inbox	Email replies sync to conversations	Email replies sync to conversations	Limited email reply support
FILES	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Store and manage files	Keep all client and project files in one organized place	Basic storage (no dedicated file management system)	Files exist per project only	Files are stored per project only	You can store and manage files centrally
Advanced folder organization	Organize files by project, client, or structure you choose	Not supported	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Project-based file sections
Folder permissions	Control who can view or edit folders	Not supported	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Role-based file access
People folders	Group files by person when needed	Basic storage (no dedicated file management system)	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Files are project-attached only
Project folders	Keep files scoped to each project	Basic storage (no dedicated file management system)	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Project-based file sections
In-app previews	Preview files instantly without downloading	External storage only	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Preview via project files
Custom file data fields	Capture file metadata you can sort and filter	Unlimited contact & project fields	You can add custom fields	You can add custom fields to forms and records	You can add custom fields across modules
Built-in documents	Create and edit documents directly inside Plutio	You can connect quotes to contracts and invoices	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Wiki-style documentation
Comments on files and docs	Leave comments directly on files and documents	Not supported	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Comments on project files
Bulk file actions	Move, tag, or manage many files at once	Basic management (no bulk operations)	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Limited bulk operations
Files search & filter	Find files quickly using search and filters	Basic search (limited filtering options)	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Search within project files
External cloud sync	Sync files with Google Drive or Dropbox	No native cloud sync	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Via integrations only
Secure sharing controls	Restrict access with permissions or passwords	Client portal only (no public sharing controls)	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Role-based sharing controls
File sharing links	Share files externally with controlled access	Client portal only (no direct sharing links)	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Project-based sharing only
SCHEDULING	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Schedule meetings	Let clients book meetings directly without back-and-forth emails	Simple scheduler, no team round-robin	Scheduler with intake forms	Custom scheduler with workflows	Scheduler with calendar sync
Branded booking page	Build a fully branded, customizable booking system using a drag-and-drop editor	Basic scheduler (limited team coordination)	Branding options are limited	Branding options are limited	Booking pages support custom branding
Advanced availability management	Define flexible availability rules applied automatically to bookings	Basic scheduler (limited team coordination)	You can control availability	You can control availability	You can define availability rules
Automatic buffer times	Add buffer time automatically between meetings	Buffer time between meetings	You can add buffer times	You can add buffer times	You can add buffer times to bookings
Multiple meeting types	Create unlimited booking types with different rules and setups	Multiple session types supported	You can offer multiple session types	You can offer multiple appointment types	You can offer multiple booking types
Calendar sync (Google/Outlook)	Two-way calendar sync that stays up to date automatically	Two-way sync (Google & Outlook)	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Internal calendar only
Customizable booking confirmations	Fully customizable confirmation pages with no layout or branding limits	Custom confirmation emails	Confirmation customization is limited	Confirmation customization is limited	Confirmation messages have limited customization
Redirect after booking	Send bookers anywhere after scheduling, not just a fixed thank-you page	Included. Redirect after booking supported	You cannot redirect after booking	You cannot redirect after booking	Redirects require workflow configuration
Booking automation triggers	Trigger automated workflows the moment a meeting is booked	Trigger actions on booking	Contracts can trigger workflows	Contracts trigger workflows	Contracts can trigger workflows only if configured
Smart meeting reminders	Send automatic reminders without manual follow-ups	Auto meeting reminders	Meeting reminders send automatically	Meeting reminders send automatically	Meeting reminders send automatically
Automatic timezone detection	Handle timezones automatically without manual adjustments	Supported	Timezones adjust automatically	Timezones adjust automatically	Timezones adjust automatically
Paid appointments (Stripe/PayPal)	Collect payments during booking without extra steps	Not supported	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Payments via integrations only
Custom booking forms	Build booking forms with full control over questions and layout	You can collect info on booking	Booking forms are fixed	Booking forms are fixed	You can customize booking forms
Minimum notice / daily booking limits	Set booking limits to control lead time and daily volume	Booking limits & notice supported	You can set booking limits	You can set booking limits	You can set booking limits
Rescheduling and cancellation controls	Define flexible rules for rescheduling and cancellations	Not supported	Clients can reschedule or cancel	Clients can reschedule or cancel	Clients can reschedule or cancel bookings
AUTOMATION	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Automated workflows builder	Build advanced workflows visually without code or rigid templates	Trigger-based automation, no visual builder	AI-powered workflow builder with branching	Visual node-based Flows builder	Workflow automation with triggers
Trigger-based workflows	Start workflows from real events across projects, clients, and payments	Event-driven automation supported	You can automate actions with workflows	You can automate automation actions with workflows	You can build trigger-based workflows
Schedule-based workflows	Run workflows on schedules you control, not fixed intervals	Not supported	Workflows cannot repeat on a schedule	Workflows cannot repeat on a schedule	Workflows can run on schedules
Multi-step workflows	Chain multiple actions into one continuous automation	Single actions. Complex multi-step flows not supported	Workflows can include multiple steps	Workflows can include multiple steps	You can chain multiple automation steps
True/False branching	Create conditional paths instead of one-size-fits-all flows	Linear workflows only	Branching exists, but options are limited	Branching exists, but is limited	Conditional logic is supported
Delay-based actions	Add precise timing between steps, down to minutes or days	Supported. You can delay workflow steps	You can delay workflow steps	You can delay workflow steps	You can delay actions
Create & update records	Create, update, or move records automatically across the system	Auto-create projects & invoices supported	Creation actions are limited	Creation actions are limited	Records can be created automatically with setup
Move & duplicate records	Reorganize work automatically without manual cleanup	Not supported	Items cannot be duplicated automatically	Items cannot be duplicated automatically	Records can be duplicated automatically
Delete & archive records	Automatically archive or remove records based on rules	Manual only	Items cannot be deleted via automation	Items cannot be deleted automatically	Deletion requires safeguards and rules
API calls (webhooks)	Trigger or receive real-time events from external systems	Supported via webhooks (no visual designer)	You cannot use APIs or webhooks	You cannot use APIs or webhooks	You can trigger API calls and webhooks
Send emails	Send automated emails tied to real workflow events	Automation can trigger emails	Workflows can send emails	Workflows can send emails	Emails can be sent automatically
Post comments	Add notes or comments automatically where work happens	No internal commenting system	You cannot post comments via automation	You cannot post comments via automation	Comments can be posted via workflows
Complete automation logs	See exactly what ran, when, and why	Basic activity log (no detailed execution history)	You cannot view automation logs	You cannot view automation logs	Automation activity is logged
Auto-fill data/variables	Pass data between steps dynamically without manual mapping	You can use tokens for dynamic data	You can use smart fields	You can use smart fields	Variables work across automation
Cross-entity connections	Run workflows that span projects, tasks, proposals, invoices, and more	Linear only (limited cross-module connectivity)	Forms, bookings, and payments trigger workflows	Forms, payments, and bookings trigger workflows	Actions can trigger across modules
FORMS	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Create branded forms	Build fully branded forms that match your workflow and client experience	Basic form templates, no branding control	Questionnaires with limited styling	Branded forms with smart fields	Form builder with file uploads
Drag-and-drop form builder	Design forms visually with full layout control, no code required	Template-based (fixed form structures)	You cannot visually build contracts	You can build contracts using form blocks	Contracts use structured templates, not free-form builders
Reusable form templates	Reuse form structures without rebuilding from scratch	Included. You can save and reuse forms	You cannot reuse form templates	You can reuse form templates	You can reuse form templates
Custom form data fields	Collect structured data you can sort, filter, and report on	Included. You can add custom fields to forms	You can add custom fields	You can add custom fields to forms and records	You can add custom fields across modules
Smart conditional logic	Show or hide fields based on responses, not static forms	Not supported. Forms are static	Fields cannot change based on answers	Fields can change based on answers	Fields can change based on answers
Instant email notifications	Get notified immediately when forms are submitted	Included. Email alerts on submission	You can email on submission	You can email on submission	Notifications can send on submission
Form automation triggers	Trigger automated workflows when a form is submitted	Included. Form submission can start workflows	Contracts can trigger workflows	Contracts trigger workflows	Contracts can trigger workflows only if configured
Embed forms	Embed forms anywhere without layout restrictions	Included. You can embed forms on your site	You can embed forms	You can embed forms	Forms can be embedded on websites
Advanced field preferences	Control required, hidden, and default field behavior	Basic field settings (no advanced validation)	Field behavior is fixed	Field behavior is limited	Field behavior options are limited
Comprehensive field types	Collect text, files, dates, selections, and more	Standard fields (text, date, select) supported	Field types are limited	Field types are limited	Most common field types are available
Form signature field	Collect legally binding signatures directly inside forms	Included. Electronic signatures available on forms	Forms can include signatures	Forms can include signatures	Forms can include signatures
File upload fields	Accept file uploads as part of form submissions	Included. Clients can upload files to forms	File uploads are limited	Clients can upload files	Clients can upload files
Redirect after submission	Send submitters to a custom next step, not a fixed thank-you page	Included. Custom redirect links supported	You cannot redirect after submit	You cannot redirect after submit	Redirects after submission are supported
CRM	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Manage clients and leads	Manage contacts and companies in one connected system	Contact management with lead tracking	Pipeline with AI lead prioritization	CRM with auto-created client records	Full CRM with lead portals
Full company management	Track organizations, not just individual contacts	Organization tracking (no separate company records)	Companies exist, but contacts come first	Companies exist, contacts come first	You can group contacts into companies
Custom contact data fields	Collect and manage structured contact data you define	Included. Unlimited custom contact fields	You can add CRM fields	You can add CRM fields	CRM fields are customizable
Complete activity timeline	See every interaction with a client in one place	Included. Tracks interactions per contact	You can see full activity history	You can see full activity history	Activity history exists across modules
Contacts labeling and grouping	Organize contacts flexibly without rigid pipelines	Included. Tag-based organization supported	You can tag and segment contacts	You can tag and segment contacts	Contacts can be tagged and segmented
WIKI	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Comprehensive knowledge base	Create an internal wiki for processes, docs, and guides	Not supported. No built-in wiki or SOP system	You cannot create an internal wiki	You cannot create an internal wiki	You can create internal knowledge bases
Beautiful rich text pages	Write structured, formatted content without complexity	Not supported. No rich-text page builder	Not supported (requires integration)	Not supported	Not supported
Unlimited nested pages	Build deep knowledge hierarchies without limits	Not supported	Not supported (requires integration)	Not supported	Not supported
Granular page permissions	Control exactly who can view or edit each page	Not supported	Not supported (requires integration)	Not supported	Not supported
DASHBOARDS	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Custom dashboards and pages	Build dashboards around what matters to you, not fixed metrics	Fixed layout	HoneyBook does not have custom dashboards	Dubsado has a home page, not custom dashboards	Full custom dashboards
Drag-and-drop dashboard builder	Design dashboards visually with full layout control	Not supported. Dashboard is pre-configured	Limited dashboard widgets	Included	Widget-based, no drag-drop
Charts widget	Visualize data with customizable charts	Basic financial charts (no custom chart creation)	Basic charts only	Requires manual setup	Pre-built reports only
Metrics widget	Track key numbers without manual reporting	Standard metrics only (revenue, leads)	Basic metrics only	Included	Standard metrics only
Goals widget	Monitor progress toward defined goals	Not supported. No internal goal tracking system	Not supported (requires integration)	Not supported	Not supported
Notes widget	Add contextual notes directly to dashboards	Not supported. No dashboard notes widget	Not supported (requires integration)	Not supported	Not supported
Calendar widget	View upcoming events alongside work and metrics	Included. Agenda and upcoming tasks displayed	Calendar on dashboard	Included	Limited calendar integration
Financial widgets	Track revenue and expenses in the same view	Included. Revenue and pending payments tracking	Revenue & invoice tracking	Included	Full financial dashboard
BRANDING	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
White-label and branding	Run the entire platform under your brand	Logo only	HoneyBook branding, not white-label	Dubsado branding, not white-label	Full white-label with custom domains
Custom interface theme	Apply your brand colors across the system	Not supported. Themes are pre-defined	UI theme cannot be customized	UI theme cannot be customized	UI theme options are limited
Stylesheet customization	Fine-tune styling beyond basic theming	Not supported. No custom CSS access	You cannot apply custom CSS	You cannot apply custom CSS	Custom CSS is supported with constraints
Custom login/signup pages	Use branded authentication pages instead of generic screens	Logo branding only (fixed layout)	Login pages cannot be customized	Login pages cannot be customized	Login and signup pages can be customized
Email branding	Send all system emails with your branding	Included. Add your logo to all messages	You can brand outgoing emails	You can brand outgoing emails	Emails can be branded
Custom brand fonts	Use your own fonts throughout the platform	Not supported. No custom font uploads	You cannot use custom fonts	You cannot use custom fonts	Font selection is limited
Custom brand logos	Replace all platform logos with your own	Included. Your logo on documents and emails	You can add your logo	You can add your logo	You can add custom logos
Custom domain name	Run everything on your own domain	Not supported. Redirects to 17hats domain	Not supported (requires integration)	Not supported	Not supported
Custom email SMTP	Send emails from your own email infrastructure	Included. Send from your SMTP server	Not supported (requires integration)	Not supported	Not supported
Full workspace embedding	Embed Plutio directly into your website or product	Not supported	Not supported (requires integration)	Not supported	Not supported
CUSTOMIZATION	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Flexible workspace setup	Shape the platform to match how your business works	17hats has fixed workspace	HoneyBook has fixed workspace	Dubsado has fixed workspace	With setup
Main menu editor	Add, remove, or reorder navigation items freely	Fixed menu (no customization)	You cannot customize navigation	You cannot customize navigation	Navigation can be rearranged with setup
User-based menus	Show different navigation for different roles	Not supported (fixed menu for all user roles)	Menus are the same for all users	Menus are the same for all users	Menus depend on assigned roles
Custom user roles	Create role types beyond preset permissions	Basic roles only (no granular permissions)	You cannot define custom roles	You cannot define custom roles	You can define custom roles
Advanced user permissions	Control access at a granular level	Not supported (no granular permission settings)	Permissions are not configurable	Permissions are not configurable	Permissions can be configured in detail
SSO / OAuth	Support enterprise-grade single sign-on	Email & password login only	You cannot use SSO	You cannot use SSO	SSO is available on higher plans
INTEGRATIONS	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Connect with other tools	Integrate with external systems without lock-in	Zapier plus direct integrations	Zapier only	Zapier only	Native integrations via API
Zapier integration	Connect to thousands of apps without custom code	Included. Full Zapier connectivity	You can connect HoneyBook to Zapier	You can connect Dubsado to Zapier	Zapier can connect to SuiteDash
Make.com integration	Build advanced automation scenarios visually	Not supported natively	You cannot connect via Make	You cannot connect via Make	Make can connect to SuiteDash
Pabbly Connect	Connect services without usage-based limits	Not supported natively	You cannot connect via Pabbly	You cannot connect via Pabbly	Pabbly can connect using API
Full REST API access	Build custom integrations with full system access	Included. API access available for developers	You cannot access an API	You cannot access an API	You can access a REST API
Incoming & outgoing webhooks	Send and receive real-time events	Supported. Automate events via webhooks	You cannot use webhooks	You cannot use webhooks	Webhooks are supported
PLATFORM	Plutio	17hats	HoneyBook	Dubsado	Bonsai	SuiteDash
Mobile apps	Access your business from native mobile apps	Limited features	Full-featured iOS and Android apps	iOS and Android with Tap to Pay	Mobile-responsive, no native apps
iOS app	Full-featured iPhone app	Limited features (legacy mobile interface)	You can use HoneyBook on iOS	You can use Dubsado on iOS	Mobile app exists with limited functionality
Android app	Full-featured Android app	Limited features (legacy mobile interface)	You can use HoneyBook on Android	You can use Dubsado on Android	Android app exists with limited functionality
Mac desktop app	Native macOS app for desktop workflows	Web only. No native Mac application	There is no desktop app	There is no desktop app	No native Mac desktop app exists
Windows desktop app	Native Windows app for desktop workflows	Web only. No native Windows application	There is no desktop app	There is no desktop app	No native Windows desktop app exists

How to migrate from 17hats to Plutio (Step-by-Step)

Switching from 17hats to Plutio is designed to be a continuous move rather than a fresh start. You can carry over your existing client data and billing history to maintain momentum.

Step 1: Export your 17hats data

Download your clients, projects, and invoices as CSV files from your 17hats dashboard.

Step 2: Map and Import into Plutio

Upload your CSVs to Plutio. Our importer allows you to map 17hats fields (like Client Name, Email, and Total Invoiced) directly to Plutio’s structured database.

Step 3: Brand and Invite

Set up your whitelabeled portal and custom domain. Once ready, invite your clients into their new professional workspace where they can access all their historical data.

Step 4: Connect the Workflows

Unlike 17hats, you can now link the imported invoices and projects to automated follow-ups and task boards, so your project work finally catches up with your billing.

Frequently asked questions

Can Plutio replace 17hats?

Yes. Plutio includes proposals, contracts, invoices, payments, projects, tasks, client communication, client portals, automation, and AI in one app.

Can I send one-off invoices or contracts in Plutio?

Yes. You can send one-off proposals, contracts, or invoices, or connect them into automated workflows.

Is Plutio good for freelancers and agencies?

Yes. Plutio is used by freelancers and agencies managing multiple projects, tasks, and workflows. Many users start small and expand their workflows as their client work grows.

Do freelancers actually use Plutio day to day?

Yes. Plutio is used daily by freelancers to manage proposals, contracts, invoices, projects, client communication, and automation in one place.

Is Plutio proven for agencies, not just solo freelancers?

Yes. Agencies use Plutio to manage multiple clients, their projects, billing, and client communication while keeping everything connected.

How long has Plutio been around?

Plutio has been built and improved for over 10 years based on real freelancer and agency feedback.

Why do people switch to Plutio from other tools?

Most users switch when they need to bridge the gap between getting hired and actually managing projects, tasks, and client communication, moving from isolated tools to a unified app.

Can I migrate from 17hats?

Yes. You can import clients, projects, invoices, and related historical data and continue without starting over.

Is my data used to train AI models?

No. Your data is private, encrypted, and never used to train any AI models.

Is Plutio or 17hats better for growing agencies?

Plutio is widely considered the superior choice for growing agencies because it supports agency-level portal access, granular permissions, and whitelabeling that 17hats lacks. While 17hats is built for solo use, Plutio provides the architectural depth needed to scale your operations without switching tools as your agency grows.

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