Best Acuity Scheduling alternatives for freelancers & agencies (2026) - when booking isn't enough
Acuity Scheduling helps clients pick a time, answer intake questions, and pay for an appointment through a booking page. It's built for scheduling, but once a call turns into ongoing work, you still need proposals, contracts, tasks, files, and invoices somewhere else.
This page explains what Acuity is good at, where it falls behind once real client work begins, and the best Acuity Scheduling alternatives in 2026 for freelancers and agencies.
Last updated January 2026
What is Acuity Scheduling
Acuity Scheduling is booking software that shows your availability and lets clients book without back-and-forth emails. It can collect intake answers, send confirmations and reminders, and take payments for appointments depending on your setup. It's built to help freelancers and coaches fill their calendars, but the workflow ends once the appointment is booked.
TLDR (summary)
Acuity Scheduling is built for booking appointments and taking payment for a session. It does not include proposals, contracts, project tasks, files, or milestone invoicing once work continues past the call, so you usually end up opening another app just to run the project.
If you want scheduling plus proposals, contracts, tasks, files, and payments tied to the same project, Plutio is the most complete Acuity alternative for freelancers and agencies in 2026.
Choose Plutio if you want the booked call to automatically create the project, the signed contract to start the workflow, and your client to see tasks, files, and progress without chasing you.
Final verdict
What the data shows
We reviewed real usage and reviews to compare Acuity Scheduling and Plutio.
G2 ratings: Acuity holds 4.7 stars from 400+ reviews. Plutio holds 4.3 stars from 57 reviews.
How this plays out in real work: Acuity gives you deep control over appointments. Once work extends beyond scheduling, everything else needs to be handled in other tools.
The comparison table shows how Plutio connects booking directly into delivery.
Customer outcomes: Cheri Lasota halved admin time by consolidating tools.
The bottom line: Acuity manages appointments. Plutio manages the entire client relationship.
Acuity Scheduling alternatives comparison table
How each tool compares across key capabilities.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Manage projects and tasks | Fully flexible project and task setup you can shape to your workflow | Projects are not supported | Projects with task lists and pipeline | Projects with task boards | Projects with pipelines and to-dos |
Project roles and permissions | Control exactly who can view or edit each part of a project | Projects are not supported | 5 team roles with project access control | 3 fixed roles (Basic, Accountant, Admin) | 3 user levels (paid plans only) |
Multiple task boards | Unlimited boards to run parallel workflows in the same project | Task boards are not supported | You cannot use task boards | You cannot use task boards | Single to-do list only |
Embeddable project boards | Live project boards embedded into client portals or websites | Project boards are not supported | You cannot embed project views | You cannot embed project views | No external project viewing |
Sharable project boards | Read-only public links for sharing progress without risk | Project boards are not supported | You can share projects via the client portal only | You can share via the client portal only | No read-only project links |
Project stages and milestones | Define custom project lifecycles for different types of work | Project stages and milestones are not supported | You can use pipeline stages, but they are predefined | You can use project statuses, but no milestones | You cannot define stages or milestones |
Connected proposals, contracts, and invoices | Everything related stays connected to the project automatically | Limited to payment collection only | Integrated via Smart Files | Proposals, contracts, and invoices live inside projects | All modules connect to the project lifecycle |
Custom project data fields | Track, sort, filter, and report on custom project data | Projects are not supported | Basic custom fields | Basic custom fields | Limited custom fields |
Kanban boards | Drag-and-drop tasks across customizable columns | Kanban boards are not supported | You cannot view tasks in a kanban board | You cannot view tasks in a kanban board | Legacy list-based interface only |
Table view | Bulk-edit tasks like a spreadsheet | Task tables are not supported | You cannot view tasks in a table | You cannot view tasks in a table | No spreadsheet-style editing |
List view | Clean task lists with clear hierarchy | Task lists are not supported | You can view projects in a list | You can manage tasks in simple lists | You can manage tasks as simple to-do lists |
Calendar view | See tasks and deadlines on a calendar | The calendar shows appointments only, not projects or tasks | You can see bookings on a calendar | You can see deadlines and appointments on a calendar | You can see tasks and bookings on a calendar |
Gantt view | Plan work visually with task order and dependencies | Gantt charts are not supported | You cannot view work on a gantt chart | You cannot view work on a gantt chart | No Gantt chart feature |
Subtasks | Break work down into multiple nested levels | Tasks and subtasks are not supported | You cannot split tasks into subtasks | You cannot split tasks into subtasks | All tasks are single-level only |
Email to task | Turn emails into tasks without manual copying | Not supported | Not supported (email sync only) | You cannot create tasks from emails | Not supported (email sync only) |
Task comments | Keep discussions tied directly to each task | Task comments are not supported | You cannot comment on tasks | You cannot comment on tasks | You cannot comment directly on tasks |
Task attachments | Store files directly on the task they belong to | Tasks are not supported | You can share files, but not attach them to tasks | You can upload files, but not attach them to tasks | You cannot attach files to tasks |
Task priorities | Define priority levels that fit your workflow | Task prioritization is not supported | You cannot set task priorities | You cannot set task priorities | You cannot set task priority levels |
Task labels & color coding | Use unlimited labels to visually organize tasks | Color labels apply to appointments, not tasks | You cannot label or color-code tasks | You cannot label or color-code tasks | You cannot tag or color-code tasks |
Multiple task assignees | Assign tasks to one or multiple teammates | Multiple assignees are not supported | You cannot assign tasks to multiple people | You cannot assign tasks to multiple people | Single assignee per task only |
Task templates | Reuse task-level structures across projects | Task templates are not supported | You cannot reuse task templates | You can reuse workflows and form templates | You can reuse task lists through workflows |
Task permissions | Control access at the individual task level | Task-level permissions are not supported | You cannot set permissions per task | You cannot set permissions per task | You cannot control permissions per task |
Task dependencies | Prevent work from starting out of order | Task dependencies are not supported | You cannot link tasks together | You cannot link tasks together | Not supported |
Recurring tasks | Automate repeating work with flexible schedules | Tasks are not supported | You cannot create recurring tasks | You cannot create recurring tasks | Basic recurring |
Custom task data fields | Add task-level fields for tracking custom details | Tasks are not supported | Basic custom fields | Basic custom fields | Limited custom fields |
TIME TRACKING | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Time tracking system | Easily track time using timers or manual entries | Time tracking is not supported | You cannot track time | You cannot track time | Start and stop timers or log time manually |
Task-level tracking | Log time directly against tasks and subtasks | Task tracking is not supported | You cannot track time per task | You cannot track time per task | You cannot track time per task |
Project-level tracking | See time spent per project and per client | Project tracking is not supported | You cannot track time per project | You cannot track time per project | Track time across different projects and clients |
Billable time tracking | Clearly separate billable and non-billable time | Billable time tracking is not supported | You cannot bill time automatically | You cannot bill time automatically | You cannot set billing rules for time |
Billable time invoicing | Turn tracked time into invoices without extra steps | Invoicing is not supported | There is no time to invoice | There is no time to invoice | Convert tracked billable time into an invoice |
Timesheet reports | View detailed time reports by task, project, or client | Not supported | You cannot generate timesheets | You cannot generate timesheets | You cannot generate timesheet reports |
Team timesheets | See how each team member tracks their time | Team timesheets are not supported | You cannot see team time reports | You cannot see team time reports | No team breakdown for time entries |
PROPOSALS | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Create and send proposals | Create proposals clients can review, approve, and sign in one flow | Acuity is for scheduling only | Smart files combine proposals and contracts | Proposals with pricing tables | Quotes with limited design options |
Drag-and-drop proposal builder | Create custom, branded proposals without layout limits or code | Proposals are not supported | You can edit sections, not free drag-and-drop | You can build proposals using drag-and-drop forms | You cannot drag and drop proposal sections |
Reusable proposal templates | Reuse proven proposal layouts across clients | Proposals are not supported | You can use proposal templates | You can use proposal templates | Save and reuse your own proposal templates |
Real-time proposal analytics | See exactly when proposals are opened and reviewed | Proposal analytics are not supported | You can see when a proposal is viewed | You cannot see proposal view analytics | You cannot see proposal views or activity |
Live messenger on proposals | Answer questions directly while clients review proposals | Proposal messaging is not supported | You cannot chat inside proposals | You cannot chat inside proposals | You cannot chat inside proposals |
Proposal flow automation | Move from proposal to contract, invoice, or booking automatically | Not supported | Complete Smart Files flow | You can add proposal items like services or products | Limited flow (no integrated scheduler sync) |
Convert proposal to invoice | Create invoices directly from approved proposals | Proposals and invoices are not supported | Accepted proposals create invoices | Accepted proposals create invoices | You can turn accepted proposals into invoices |
Packages and add-ons | Offer upsells and add-ons directly inside proposals | Proposal pricing packages are not supported | You can offer packages and add-ons | You can offer packages and add-ons | You cannot offer configurable packages |
Interactive pricing tables | Let clients choose options before approving | Not supported | Pricing updates dynamically | Pricing updates based on selections | Pricing tables are static |
Dynamic data and variables | Auto-fill proposal content with client and project data | Not supported | You can use smart fields | You can use smart fields | Use tokens to insert client and project data automatically |
Expiration dates | Automatically expire proposals after a set date | Not supported | You can set proposal expiry | You cannot set proposal expiry dates | You cannot set proposal expiry dates |
PDF Export | Download as branded PDFs | Not supported | 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 | Not supported | You can reuse proposal sections | You can reuse form sections | Save and reuse sections across different documents |
Legally binding e-signatures | Collect secure electronic signatures on proposals | Not supported | Clients can sign online | Clients can sign documents online | Clients can sign your agreements online |
Custom proposal data fields | Create custom proposal data you can sort, filter, and report on | Proposals are not supported | Basic custom fields | Basic custom fields | Not supported. You cannot customize signer fields |
CONTRACTS | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Create and sign contracts | Create, send, and sign contracts in one continuous flow | Acuity is for scheduling only | Smart files combine contracts and invoices | Contract creation with automation | Contracts with e-signature capture |
Drag-and-drop contract builder | Create fully custom contracts with flexible layouts, no code or formatting limits | Intake forms can be built visually | You cannot visually build contracts | You can build contracts using form blocks | You cannot visually build contracts |
Legally binding e-signatures | Collect secure signatures with audit trails and signer verification | E-signatures are not supported | Contracts support legal e-signatures | Contracts support legal e-signatures | E-signatures meet standard legal requirements |
Multi-signature / signees | Collect signatures from multiple people on the same contract | Contracts are not supported | You can collect multiple signatures, with fixed roles | You can collect multiple signatures, setup is limited | You cannot collect signatures from multiple people |
Reusable contract templates | Reuse contract structures to create new agreements faster | Contracts are not supported | You can use contract templates | You can use contract templates | You can use contract templates |
Auto-reminders automation | Automatically follow up until contracts are signed | Contract reminders are not supported | You can send automatic reminders | Reminders send automatically | You can send automatic reminders |
Dynamic data/variables | Auto-fill contract content with client and project data | Contracts are not supported | You can use smart fields in contracts | You can use smart fields in contracts | You can insert custom fields |
Contract automation triggers | Trigger automated workflows the moment a contract is signed | Automation is limited to booking and payment events | Contracts can trigger workflows | Contracts trigger workflows | Contracts can trigger workflows |
View notifications | See when contracts are opened and reviewed | Booking and payment notifications are supported | You receive contract notifications | You receive signing notifications | You receive email notifications |
PDF download with signature certificate | Download signed contracts with official proof of signature | Contracts are not supported | You can download signed PDFs | You can download signed PDFs | You can download signed PDFs |
Custom signer data fields | Collect structured signer information during signing | Contracts are not supported | You cannot customize signer fields | You cannot customize signer fields | Not supported. You cannot customize signer fields |
Custom contract data fields | Create custom contract data you can sort, filter, and report on | Contracts are not supported | Basic custom fields | Basic custom fields | Not supported |
INVOICES & PAYMENTS | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Create invoices and get paid | Send invoices and collect payments in one connected flow | Invoicing with payment processing | Invoices with instant online payments | Invoices with payment plans | Invoices with Stripe and PayPal |
Fully branded invoices | Match invoices to your brand with custom logos, colors, and layout | Logo only, fixed template layout | You can brand invoices | You can brand invoices | Basic invoicing (no smart tax automation) |
Drag and drop invoice builder | Create custom invoice layouts visually without formatting limits | Fixed templates, no layout control | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | Template-based (no drag-and-drop designer) |
Customizable line items | Edit pricing, quantities, descriptions, and structure freely | Customizable line items | You can edit line items | You can edit line items | You can customize invoice line items |
Item or invoice discounts | Apply discounts at the item or full invoice level | Invoices are not supported | You can apply discounts | You can apply discounts | You can add discounts to line items |
Customizable taxes | Create tax rules that match your location and use case | Invoices are not supported | You can set tax rates | You can set tax rates | You can set custom tax rules |
ACH payments | Accept bank transfers for lower-fee payments | ACH support depends on the connected payment processor | You can accept bank transfers | You can accept bank payments | ACH payments supported |
Stripe integration | Accept credit and debit cards instantly | You can collect payments via Stripe during booking | You can accept payments via Stripe | You can accept payments via Stripe | Stripe integration available |
Square integration | Collect in-person payments when needed | You can collect payments via Square during booking | You cannot accept payments via Square | You cannot accept payments via Square | Square integration available |
PayPal integration | Let clients pay using PayPal | You can collect payments via PayPal during booking | You cannot accept payments via PayPal | You cannot accept payments via PayPal | PayPal integration available |
Flexible partial payments | Collect deposits and split payments across milestones | You can require deposits for appointments | You can accept partial payments | You can accept partial payments | You can set up payment schedules |
Payment plans | Break invoices into scheduled installments | Deposits are supported, scheduled installments are not | You can split invoices into payments | You can split invoices into payments | You can set up payment schedules |
Automated recurring invoices | Automatically send invoices on a recurring schedule | Recurring invoices are not supported | You can schedule payments, not subscriptions | You can schedule invoices, not subscriptions | Recurring invoices (no automated subscription portal) |
Subscription management | Manage ongoing client subscriptions and billing | Recurring appointments are supported, not subscriptions | You cannot manage subscriptions | You cannot manage subscriptions | Recurring invoices (no automated subscription portal) |
Automated payment reminders | Follow up automatically until invoices are paid | Payment reminders tied to bookings are supported | Payment reminders send automatically | Payment reminders send automatically | Automated reminders supported |
Reusable invoice templates | Reuse invoice layouts without rebuilding each time | Invoices are not supported | You can reuse invoice templates | You can reuse invoice templates | You can reuse templates and content |
Multiple currency support | Bill clients globally in their local currency | Currency support depends on the payment processor | You can use one account currency only | You can use one account currency | Basic support (no automated exchange rates) |
Invoice automation triggers | Trigger automated workflows when invoices are sent or paid | Automation is limited to booking and payment events | Contracts can trigger workflows | Contracts trigger workflows | Simple triggers (no multi-step automation) |
View notifications | See when invoices are opened and paid | Booking and payment notifications are supported | You receive contract notifications | You receive signing notifications | Activity log (no real-time updates) |
Built-in expense tracking | Track project-related costs alongside invoices | Expense tracking is not supported | You cannot track expenses | You cannot track expenses | You can track expenses |
Invoice deposits | Collect upfront payments before work starts | Deposits can be required to confirm bookings | You can request deposits | You can request deposits | Deposit payments supported |
Auto-invoice billable time | Turn tracked time into invoices automatically | Time tracking is not supported | There is no time to convert | There is no time to convert | You can add tracked time to invoices |
Custom invoice data fields | Create custom invoice data you can sort, filter, and report on | Invoices are not supported | Basic custom fields | Basic custom fields | Limited custom fields |
INBOX | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Centralized unified inbox | Manage email, chat, and messages from one shared inbox | A unified client inbox is not supported | Messages and emails live in one inbox | Messages and emails live in one place | Communication is limited to email sync |
Full email integration | Connect and manage all your email accounts in one place | Emails are sent by Acuity, inbox sync is not supported | You can sync your email | You can sync your email | Email sync & templates included |
Embeddable live chat | Add real-time chat to your website and client portals | Live chat is not supported | You cannot add live chat to your site | You cannot add live chat to your site | No native live chat feature |
Instant direct messages | Message teammates privately without leaving your workspace | Direct messaging is not supported | You cannot DM teammates | You cannot DM teammates | Email sync only |
Contextual project conversations | Keep conversations tied directly to the project they belong to | Projects are not supported | Messages are tied to projects | Messages are tied to projects | Email sync (limited to project-specific threads) |
Team channels | Create shared spaces for team-wide discussions | Team chat is not supported | You cannot create team channels | You cannot create team channels | Email sync only |
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 | @mentions are not supported | You cannot mention teammates | You cannot mention teammates | Email sync only |
Message read receipts | See when messages are read | Messaging is not supported | You can see when clients read messages | You can see when clients read messages | Activity log (tracks when emails are opened) |
File sharing in chat | Share files directly inside conversations | Chat and file sharing are not supported | You can share files in messages | You can share files in messages | Email sync only |
Shared email inbox | Collaborate on incoming emails as a team | Not supported | Team email is not shared | Team email is not shared | Not supported |
Inbox mobile app | Access and respond to messages on mobile | Not supported | Mobile inbox available | Mobile inbox available | Limited mobile support |
Email reply to inbox | Reply from your email client and keep conversations synced | Not supported | Email replies sync to conversations | Email replies sync to conversations | Email replies sync to inbox |
FILES | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Store and manage files | Keep all client and project files in one organized place | File storage is not supported | Files exist per project only | Files are stored per project only | Basic storage (no dedicated file management system) |
Advanced folder organization | Organize files by project, client, or structure you choose | No file storage in Acuity | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | Not supported |
Folder permissions | Control who can view or edit folders | No file storage in Acuity | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | Not supported |
People folders | Group files by person when needed | No file storage in Acuity | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | Basic storage (no dedicated file management system) |
Project folders | Keep files scoped to each project | No file storage in Acuity | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | Basic storage (no dedicated file management system) |
In-app previews | Preview files instantly without downloading | No file storage in Acuity | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | External storage only |
Custom file data fields | Capture file metadata you can sort and filter | Custom fields are supported only in intake forms and client records | You can add custom fields | You can add custom fields to forms and records | Unlimited contact & project fields |
Built-in documents | Create and edit documents directly inside Plutio | No documents in Acuity | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | You can connect quotes to contracts and invoices |
Comments on files and docs | Leave comments directly on files and documents | No file comments in Acuity | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | Not supported |
Bulk file actions | Move, tag, or manage many files at once | No file storage in Acuity | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | Basic management (no bulk operations) |
Files search & filter | Find files quickly using search and filters | No file search in Acuity | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | Basic search (limited filtering options) |
External cloud sync | Sync files with Google Drive or Dropbox | Calendar sync only | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | No native cloud sync |
Secure sharing controls | Restrict access with permissions or passwords | No file sharing in Acuity | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | Client portal only (no public sharing controls) |
File sharing links | Share files externally with controlled access | No file sharing in Acuity | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | Client portal only (no direct sharing links) |
SCHEDULING | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Schedule meetings | Let clients book meetings directly without back-and-forth emails | Full-featured booking system | Scheduler with intake forms | Custom scheduler with workflows | Simple scheduler, no team round-robin |
Branded booking page | Build a fully branded, customizable booking system using a drag-and-drop editor | Booking pages can be branded | Branding options are limited | Branding options are limited | Basic scheduler (limited team coordination) |
Advanced availability management | Define flexible availability rules applied automatically to bookings | Availability rules per calendar and appointment type are supported | You can control availability | You can control availability | Basic scheduler (limited team coordination) |
Automatic buffer times | Add buffer time automatically between meetings | Buffer times between appointments are supported | You can add buffer times | You can add buffer times | Buffer time between meetings |
Multiple meeting types | Create unlimited booking types with different rules and setups | Multiple appointment types are supported | You can offer multiple session types | You can offer multiple appointment types | Multiple session types supported |
Calendar sync (Google/Outlook) | Two-way calendar sync that stays up to date automatically | External calendar sync is supported | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | Two-way sync (Google & Outlook) |
Customizable booking confirmations | Fully customizable confirmation pages with no layout or branding limits | Confirmation emails and reminders can be customized | Confirmation customization is limited | Confirmation customization is limited | Custom confirmation emails |
Redirect after booking | Send bookers anywhere after scheduling, not just a fixed thank-you page | Redirects after booking are supported | You cannot redirect after booking | You cannot redirect after booking | Included. Redirect after booking supported |
Booking automation triggers | Trigger automated workflows the moment a meeting is booked | Automation is limited to booking and payment events | Contracts can trigger workflows | Contracts trigger workflows | Trigger actions on booking |
Smart meeting reminders | Send automatic reminders without manual follow-ups | Automatic appointment reminders are supported | Meeting reminders send automatically | Meeting reminders send automatically | Auto meeting reminders |
Automatic timezone detection | Handle timezones automatically without manual adjustments | Timezone handling is supported | Timezones adjust automatically | Timezones adjust automatically | Supported |
Paid appointments (Stripe/PayPal) | Collect payments during booking without extra steps | Stripe, Square, PayPal at booking | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Requires manual setup | Not supported |
Custom booking forms | Build booking forms with full control over questions and layout | Intake forms can be customized | Booking forms are fixed | Booking forms are fixed | You can collect info on booking |
Minimum notice / daily booking limits | Set booking limits to control lead time and daily volume | Booking limits and notice rules are supported | You can set booking limits | You can set booking limits | Booking limits & notice supported |
Rescheduling and cancellation controls | Define flexible rules for rescheduling and cancellations | Clients can reschedule or cancel | Clients can reschedule or cancel | Clients can reschedule or cancel | Not supported |
AUTOMATION | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Automated workflows builder | Build advanced workflows visually without code or rigid templates | Booking triggers only | AI-powered workflow builder with branching | Visual node-based Flows builder | Trigger-based automation, no visual builder |
Trigger-based workflows | Start workflows from real events across projects, clients, and payments | Automation exists only around bookings and emails | You can automate actions with workflows | You can automate automation actions with workflows | Event-driven automation supported |
Schedule-based workflows | Run workflows on schedules you control, not fixed intervals | Recurring workflows are not supported | Workflows cannot repeat on a schedule | Workflows cannot repeat on a schedule | Not supported |
Multi-step workflows | Chain multiple actions into one continuous automation | Multi-step workflows are not supported | Workflows can include multiple steps | Workflows can include multiple steps | Single actions. Complex multi-step flows not supported |
True/False branching | Create conditional paths instead of one-size-fits-all flows | Branching logic is not supported | Branching exists, but options are limited | Branching exists, but is limited | Linear workflows only |
Delay-based actions | Add precise timing between steps, down to minutes or days | Delays are limited to reminders | You can delay workflow steps | You can delay workflow steps | Supported. You can delay workflow steps |
Create & update records | Create, update, or move records automatically across the system | Tasks, projects, and invoices are not supported | Creation actions are limited | Creation actions are limited | Auto-create projects & invoices supported |
Move & duplicate records | Reorganize work automatically without manual cleanup | Appointment types can be duplicated | Items cannot be duplicated automatically | Items cannot be duplicated automatically | Not supported |
Delete & archive records | Automatically archive or remove records based on rules | Appointments can be deleted | Items cannot be deleted via automation | Items cannot be deleted automatically | Manual only |
API calls (webhooks) | Trigger or receive real-time events from external systems | API and webhooks are supported | You cannot use APIs or webhooks | You cannot use APIs or webhooks | Supported via webhooks (no visual designer) |
Send emails | Send automated emails tied to real workflow events | Emails can be sent based on booking events | Workflows can send emails | Workflows can send emails | Automation can trigger emails |
Post comments | Add notes or comments automatically where work happens | Not supported | You cannot post comments via automation | You cannot post comments via automation | No internal commenting system |
Complete automation logs | See exactly what ran, when, and why | Basic activity logs are supported | You cannot view automation logs | You cannot view automation logs | Basic activity log (no detailed execution history) |
Auto-fill data/variables | Pass data between steps dynamically without manual mapping | Variables work in emails and forms | You can use smart fields | You can use smart fields | You can use tokens for dynamic data |
Cross-entity connections | Run workflows that span projects, tasks, proposals, invoices, and more | Only scheduling modules are supported | Forms, bookings, and payments trigger workflows | Forms, payments, and bookings trigger workflows | Linear only (limited cross-module connectivity) |
FORMS | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Create branded forms | Build fully branded forms that match your workflow and client experience | Unlimited custom intake forms | Questionnaires with limited styling | Branded forms with smart fields | Basic form templates, no branding control |
Drag-and-drop form builder | Design forms visually with full layout control, no code required | Intake forms can be built visually | You cannot visually build contracts | You can build contracts using form blocks | Template-based (fixed form structures) |
Reusable form templates | Reuse form structures without rebuilding from scratch | Form templates can be reused | You cannot reuse form templates | You can reuse form templates | Included. You can save and reuse forms |
Custom form data fields | Collect structured data you can sort, filter, and report on | Custom fields are supported only in intake forms and client records | You can add custom fields | You can add custom fields to forms and records | Included. You can add custom fields to forms |
Smart conditional logic | Show or hide fields based on responses, not static forms | Conditional logic is limited | Fields cannot change based on answers | Fields can change based on answers | Not supported. Forms are static |
Instant email notifications | Get notified immediately when forms are submitted | Submission notifications are supported | You can email on submission | You can email on submission | Included. Email alerts on submission |
Form automation triggers | Trigger automated workflows when a form is submitted | Automation is limited to booking and payment events | Contracts can trigger workflows | Contracts trigger workflows | Included. Form submission can start workflows |
Embed forms | Embed forms anywhere without layout restrictions | Forms can be embedded | You can embed forms | You can embed forms | Included. You can embed forms on your site |
Advanced field preferences | Control required, hidden, and default field behavior | Field behavior options are limited | Field behavior is fixed | Field behavior is limited | Basic field settings (no advanced validation) |
Comprehensive field types | Collect text, files, dates, selections, and more | Common field types are supported | Field types are limited | Field types are limited | Standard fields (text, date, select) supported |
Form signature field | Collect legally binding signatures directly inside forms | Signature fields are not supported | Forms can include signatures | Forms can include signatures | Included. Electronic signatures available on forms |
File upload fields | Accept file uploads as part of form submissions | File uploads as managed files are not supported | File uploads are limited | Clients can upload files | Included. Clients can upload files to forms |
Redirect after submission | Send submitters to a custom next step, not a fixed thank-you page | Redirects after submission are supported | You cannot redirect after submit | You cannot redirect after submit | Included. Custom redirect links supported |
CRM | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Manage clients and leads | Manage contacts and companies in one connected system | Clients only | Pipeline with AI lead prioritization | CRM with auto-created client records | Contact management with lead tracking |
Full company management | Track organizations, not just individual contacts | Company records are not supported | Companies exist, but contacts come first | Companies exist, contacts come first | Organization tracking (no separate company records) |
Custom contact data fields | Collect and manage structured contact data you define | Custom fields exist for contacts only | You can add CRM fields | You can add CRM fields | Included. Unlimited custom contact fields |
Complete activity timeline | See every interaction with a client in one place | Activity history is limited to bookings | You can see full activity history | You can see full activity history | Included. Tracks interactions per contact |
Contacts labeling and grouping | Organize contacts flexibly without rigid pipelines | Contact tagging is supported | You can tag and segment contacts | You can tag and segment contacts | Included. Tag-based organization supported |
WIKI | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Comprehensive knowledge base | Create an internal wiki for processes, docs, and guides | A knowledge base is not supported | You cannot create an internal wiki | You cannot create an internal wiki | Not supported. No built-in wiki or SOP system |
Beautiful rich text pages | Write structured, formatted content without complexity | Not supported | Not supported (requires integration) | Not supported | Not supported. No rich-text page builder |
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 | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Custom dashboards and pages | Build dashboards around what matters to you, not fixed metrics | Acuity has no custom dashboards | HoneyBook does not have custom dashboards | Dubsado has a home page, not custom dashboards | Fixed layout |
Drag-and-drop dashboard builder | Design dashboards visually with full layout control | No dashboard builder in Acuity | Limited dashboard widgets | Included | Not supported. Dashboard is pre-configured |
Charts widget | Visualize data with customizable charts | Booking analytics only | Basic charts only | Requires manual setup | Basic financial charts (no custom chart creation) |
Metrics widget | Track key numbers without manual reporting | Booking metrics only | Basic metrics only | Included | Standard metrics only (revenue, leads) |
Goals widget | Monitor progress toward defined goals | Not supported | Not supported (requires integration) | Not supported | Not supported. No internal goal tracking system |
Notes widget | Add contextual notes directly to dashboards | Not supported | Not supported (requires integration) | Not supported | Not supported. No dashboard notes widget |
Calendar widget | View upcoming events alongside work and metrics | Included | Calendar on dashboard | Included | Included. Agenda and upcoming tasks displayed |
Financial widgets | Track revenue and expenses in the same view | Payment reports only | Revenue & invoice tracking | Included | Included. Revenue and pending payments tracking |
BRANDING | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
White-label and branding | Run the entire platform under your brand | Booking pages only | HoneyBook branding, not white-label | Dubsado branding, not white-label | Logo only |
Custom interface theme | Apply your brand colors across the system | Admin interface theming is not supported | UI theme cannot be customized | UI theme cannot be customized | Not supported. Themes are pre-defined |
Stylesheet customization | Fine-tune styling beyond basic theming | Custom CSS is not supported | You cannot apply custom CSS | You cannot apply custom CSS | Not supported. No custom CSS access |
Custom login/signup pages | Use branded authentication pages instead of generic screens | Custom login pages are not supported | Login pages cannot be customized | Login pages cannot be customized | Logo branding only (fixed layout) |
Email branding | Send all system emails with your branding | Email branding is supported | You can brand outgoing emails | You can brand outgoing emails | Included. Add your logo to all messages |
Custom brand fonts | Use your own fonts throughout the platform | Not supported | You cannot use custom fonts | You cannot use custom fonts | Not supported. No custom font uploads |
Custom brand logos | Replace all platform logos with your own | Logo can be added to booking pages | You can add your logo | You can add your logo | Included. Your logo on documents and emails |
Custom domain name | Run everything on your own domain | Not supported | Not supported (requires integration) | Not supported | Not supported. Redirects to 17hats domain |
Custom email SMTP | Send emails from your own email infrastructure | Not supported | Not supported (requires integration) | Not supported | Included. Send from your SMTP server |
Full workspace embedding | Embed Plutio directly into your website or product | Not supported | Not supported (requires integration) | Not supported | Not supported |
CUSTOMIZATION | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Flexible workspace setup | Shape the platform to match how your business works | Acuity has fixed structure | HoneyBook has fixed workspace | Dubsado has fixed workspace | 17hats has fixed workspace |
Main menu editor | Add, remove, or reorder navigation items freely | Navigation customization is not supported | You cannot customize navigation | You cannot customize navigation | Fixed menu (no customization) |
User-based menus | Show different navigation for different roles | User-based menus are not supported | Menus are the same for all users | Menus are the same for all users | Not supported (fixed menu for all user roles) |
Custom user roles | Create role types beyond preset permissions | User roles are limited to scheduling permissions | You cannot define custom roles | You cannot define custom roles | Basic roles only (no granular permissions) |
Advanced user permissions | Control access at a granular level | Permissions apply only to scheduling access | Permissions are not configurable | Permissions are not configurable | Not supported (no granular permission settings) |
SSO / OAuth | Support enterprise-grade single sign-on | SSO is available on higher plans | You cannot use SSO | You cannot use SSO | Email & password login only |
INTEGRATIONS | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Connect with other tools | Integrate with external systems without lock-in | Direct Stripe, Square, PayPal | Zapier only | Zapier only | Zapier plus direct integrations |
Zapier integration | Connect to thousands of apps without custom code | Zapier integration is supported | You can connect HoneyBook to Zapier | You can connect Dubsado to Zapier | Included. Full Zapier connectivity |
Make.com integration | Build advanced automation scenarios visually | Make integration is supported | You cannot connect via Make | You cannot connect via Make | Not supported natively |
Pabbly Connect | Connect services without usage-based limits | Possible via API | You cannot connect via Pabbly | You cannot connect via Pabbly | Not supported natively |
Full REST API access | Build custom integrations with full system access | REST API access is supported | You cannot access an API | You cannot access an API | Included. API access available for developers |
Incoming & outgoing webhooks | Send and receive real-time events | Webhooks are supported | You cannot use webhooks | You cannot use webhooks | Supported. Automate events via webhooks |
PLATFORM | Plutio | Acuity | HoneyBook | Dubsado | 17hats |
Mobile apps | Access your business from native mobile apps | iOS and Android apps | Full-featured iOS and Android apps | iOS and Android with Tap to Pay | Limited features |
iOS app | Full-featured iPhone app | iOS app is supported | You can use HoneyBook on iOS | You can use Dubsado on iOS | Limited features (legacy mobile interface) |
Android app | Full-featured Android app | Android app is supported | You can use HoneyBook on Android | You can use Dubsado on Android | Limited features (legacy mobile interface) |
Mac desktop app | Native macOS app for desktop workflows | A native desktop app is not supported | There is no desktop app | There is no desktop app | Web only. No native Mac application |
Windows desktop app | Native Windows app for desktop workflows | A native desktop app is not supported | There is no desktop app | There is no desktop app | Web only. No native Windows application |
How to migrate from Acuity Scheduling to Plutio (Step-by-Step)
Switching from Acuity Scheduling 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 Acuity Scheduling data
Download your clients, projects, and invoices as CSV files from your Acuity Scheduling dashboard.
Step 2: Map and Import into Plutio
Upload your CSVs to Plutio. Our importer allows you to map Acuity Scheduling 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 Acuity Scheduling, you can now link those imported invoices and projects to automated follow-ups and task boards, so your work finally catches up with your billing.
Frequently asked questions
Can Plutio replace Acuity Scheduling?
Yes. Plutio includes proposals, contracts, invoices, payments, projects, tasks, client communication, client portals, automation, and AI in one system.
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, team members, projects, billing, and client communication while keeping everything connected.
How long has Plutio been around?
Plutio has been built and refined 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 doing the work, moving from isolated tools to a unified system.
Can I migrate from Acuity Scheduling?
Yes. You can import clients, projects, invoices, and more 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 Acuity Scheduling better for growing agencies?
Plutio is widely considered the superior choice for growing agencies because its pricing scales better for teams and its feature set (like whitelabeling and project automation) is built for high-volume client management. While Acuity Scheduling is great for solo freelancers starting out, Plutio provides the architectural depth needed to scale operations without switching tools again later.
The complete all-in-one upgrade
Run your entire workflow in one app
From proposals to payments, projects to tasks, clients to invoices - all connected in one place.
No credit card required
