Best Dubsado alternatives for freelancers & agencies (2026) - when you need more than intake automation
Dubsado is built for automating client onboarding with forms, contracts, invoices, and email sequences. It's good enough for getting clients signed and paid, but once the project starts, you usually end up opening another app just to manage tasks, files, and progress.
This page explains what Dubsado is good at, where it falls behind, and the best alternatives in 2026 for freelancers and agencies.
Last updated January 2026
What is Dubsado
Dubsado is a client onboarding and admin tool that supports forms, email sequences, proposals, contracts, invoices, and automation rules. It's built to help freelancers standardize how they capture leads, onboard clients, and collect payments.
TLDR (summary)
Dubsado is good for onboarding workflows like forms, emails, proposals, contracts, and invoices. It is not built to run ongoing project work where tasks, files, feedback, progress updates, and client visibility live together. If you want onboarding plus a clear project setup where work, communication, and payments stay tied together from start to finish, Plutio is the most complete Dubsado alternative for freelancers and agencies in 2026.
Choose Plutio over Dubsado so the proposal you send automatically creates the project, the signed contract starts the workflow, and your client sees tasks, files, and progress without chasing you.
Final verdict
What the data shows
We looked closely at reviews, real setups, and customer stories to understand how Dubsado and Plutio compare in day-to-day use.
G2 ratings: Both Dubsado and Plutio hold 4.3 stars, with Dubsado based on 72 reviews and Plutio on 57. Dubsado reviews often talk about flexibility and customization. Plutio reviews tend to focus on ease of use and not having to manage so many moving parts.
How this plays out in real work: Dubsado gives you a lot of control. You can customize forms, build automations, and shape the intake process exactly how you want. That power comes with setup time. For freelancers who enjoy building systems, that's fine. For others, the work of maintaining the system starts to compete with client work itself.
The difference becomes clearer when you look at the full picture in our comparison table. Both tools cover proposals, contracts, and invoicing. Plutio focuses more on what happens after onboarding, turning signed work into live projects without extra configuration.
Customer outcomes: Cheri Lasota cut her admin time in half after moving to Plutio, mainly because there was less to build and maintain.
The bottom line: Dubsado is great if you enjoy customizing everything. Plutio is better if you want to spend that time doing the work instead.
Dubsado alternatives comparison table
How each tool compares across key capabilities.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Manage projects and tasks | Fully flexible project and task setup you can shape to your workflow | Projects with task boards | Projects with task lists and pipeline | Projects with pipelines and to-dos | Flexible project management with multiple modules | |
Project roles and permissions | Control exactly who can view or edit each part of a project | 3 fixed roles (Basic, Accountant, Admin) | 5 team roles with project access control | 3 user levels (paid plans only) | You can control project access using roles and permission rules | |
Multiple task boards | Unlimited boards to run parallel workflows in the same project | You cannot use task boards | You cannot use task boards | Single to-do list only | You can create multiple boards, but each must be configured manually | |
Embeddable project boards | Live project boards embedded into client portals or websites | You cannot embed project views | You cannot embed project views | No external project viewing | You cannot embed live project boards externally | |
Sharable project boards | Read-only public links for sharing progress without risk | You can share via the client portal only | You can share projects via the client portal only | No read-only project links | You can share projects using permission-based access | |
Project stages and milestones | Define custom project lifecycles for different types of work | You can use project statuses, but no milestones | You can use pipeline stages, but they are predefined | You cannot define stages or milestones | You can define stages and milestones per project | |
Connected proposals, contracts, and invoices | Everything related stays connected to the project automatically | Proposals, contracts, and invoices live inside projects | Integrated via Smart Files | All modules connect to the project lifecycle | Modules are separate but can be linked manually | |
Custom project data fields | Track, sort, filter, and report on custom project data | Basic custom fields | Basic custom fields | Limited custom fields | Custom fields available | |
Kanban boards | Drag-and-drop tasks across customizable columns | You cannot view tasks in a kanban board | You cannot view tasks in a kanban board | Legacy list-based interface only | You can view and manage tasks in Kanban boards | |
Table view | Bulk-edit tasks like a spreadsheet | You cannot view tasks in a table | You cannot view tasks in a table | No spreadsheet-style editing | You can view records in tables, but columns and behavior are rigid | |
List view | Clean task lists with clear hierarchy | You can manage tasks in simple lists | You can view projects in a list | You can manage tasks as simple to-do lists | You can manage tasks in a standard list view | |
Calendar view | See tasks and deadlines on a calendar | You can see deadlines and appointments on a calendar | You can see bookings on a calendar | You can see tasks and bookings on a calendar | You can see tasks and deadlines on a calendar | |
Gantt view | Plan work visually with task order and dependencies | You cannot view work on a gantt chart | You cannot view work on a gantt chart | No Gantt chart feature | Gantt charts are available for project planning | |
Subtasks | Break work down into multiple nested levels | You cannot split tasks into subtasks | You cannot split tasks into subtasks | All tasks are single-level only | You can break tasks into subtasks | |
Email to task | Turn emails into tasks without manual copying | You cannot create tasks from emails | Not supported (email sync only) | Not supported (email sync only) | Included | |
Task comments | Keep discussions tied directly to each task | You cannot comment on tasks | You cannot comment on tasks | You cannot comment directly on tasks | You can comment directly on tasks | |
Task attachments | Store files directly on the task they belong to | You can upload files, but not attach them to tasks | You can share files, but not attach them to tasks | You cannot attach files to tasks | You can attach files directly to tasks | |
Task priorities | Define priority levels that fit your workflow | You cannot set task priorities | You cannot set task priorities | You cannot set task priority levels | You can assign priorities to tasks | |
Task labels & color coding | Use unlimited labels to visually organize tasks | You cannot label or color-code tasks | You cannot label or color-code tasks | You cannot tag or color-code tasks | You can label and color-code tasks | |
Multiple task assignees | Assign tasks to one or multiple teammates | You cannot assign tasks to multiple people | You cannot assign tasks to multiple people | Single assignee per task only | You can assign multiple people, but coordination is manual | |
Task templates | Reuse task-level structures across projects | You can reuse workflows and form templates | You cannot reuse task templates | You can reuse task lists through workflows | You can reuse task templates | |
Task permissions | Control access at the individual task level | You cannot set permissions per task | You cannot set permissions per task | You cannot control permissions per task | Permissions are controlled by roles, not per-task rules | |
Task dependencies | Prevent work from starting out of order | You cannot link tasks together | You cannot link tasks together | Not supported | You can define task dependencies | |
Recurring tasks | Automate repeating work with flexible schedules | You cannot create recurring tasks | You cannot create recurring tasks | Basic recurring | You can create recurring tasks | |
Custom task data fields | Add task-level fields for tracking custom details | Basic custom fields | Basic custom fields | Limited custom fields | Custom fields available | |
TIME TRACKING | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Time tracking system | Easily track time using timers or manual entries | You cannot track time | You cannot track time | Start and stop timers or log time manually | 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 | You cannot track time per project | You cannot track time per project | Track time across different projects and clients | You can track total time per project | |
Billable time tracking | Clearly separate billable and non-billable time | You cannot bill time automatically | You cannot bill time automatically | You cannot set billing rules for time | You must manually define what counts as billable | |
Billable time invoicing | Turn tracked time into invoices without extra steps | There is no time to invoice | There is no time to invoice | Convert tracked billable time into an invoice | Tracked time can be invoiced with manual confirmation | |
Timesheet reports | View detailed time reports by task, project, or client | You cannot generate timesheets | You cannot generate timesheets | You cannot generate timesheet reports | You can generate detailed time reports | |
Team timesheets | See how each team member tracks their time | You cannot see team time reports | You cannot see team time reports | No team breakdown for time entries | You can view time logs per team member | |
PROPOSALS | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Create and send proposals | Create proposals clients can review, approve, and sign in one flow | Proposals with pricing tables | Smart files combine proposals and contracts | Quotes with limited design options | Proposals with line items and attachments | |
Drag-and-drop proposal builder | Create custom, branded proposals without layout limits or code | You can build proposals using drag-and-drop forms | You can edit sections, not free drag-and-drop | You cannot drag and drop proposal sections | You can edit proposals visually, but layout control is complex | |
Reusable proposal templates | Reuse proven proposal layouts across clients | You can use proposal templates | You can use proposal templates | Save and reuse your own proposal templates | You can use prebuilt proposal templates | |
Real-time proposal analytics | See exactly when proposals are opened and reviewed | You cannot see proposal view analytics | You can see when a proposal is viewed | You cannot see proposal views or activity | 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 | You can add proposal items like services or products | Complete Smart Files flow | Limited flow (no integrated scheduler sync) | Limited proposal-to-booking flow | |
Convert proposal to invoice | Create invoices directly from approved proposals | Accepted proposals create invoices | Accepted proposals create invoices | You can turn accepted proposals into invoices | You can convert proposals to invoices with manual steps | |
Packages and add-ons | Offer upsells and add-ons directly inside proposals | You can offer packages and add-ons | You can offer packages and add-ons | You cannot offer configurable packages | You can create packages using configuration rules | |
Interactive pricing tables | Let clients choose options before approving | Pricing updates based on selections | Pricing updates dynamically | Pricing tables are static | Pricing tables exist but do not update dynamically | |
Dynamic data and variables | Auto-fill proposal content with client and project data | You can use smart fields | You can use smart fields | Use tokens to insert client and project data automatically | 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 proposal PDFs | You can download proposal PDFs | You can download proposals as PDFs | You can download proposals as PDFs | |
Reusable content blocks | Create reusable proposal sections you can reuse on demand | You can reuse form sections | You can reuse proposal sections | Save and reuse sections across different documents | You can reuse content via templates, not blocks | |
Legally binding e-signatures | Collect secure electronic signatures on proposals | Clients can sign documents online | Clients can sign online | Clients can sign your agreements online | Clients can sign proposals online | |
Custom proposal data fields | Create custom proposal data you can sort, filter, and report on | Basic custom fields | Basic custom fields | Not supported. You cannot customize signer fields | Custom fields available with configuration | |
CONTRACTS | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Create and sign contracts | Create, send, and sign contracts in one continuous flow | Contract creation with automation | Smart files combine contracts and invoices | Contracts with e-signature capture | Full contract management | |
Drag-and-drop contract builder | Create fully custom contracts with flexible layouts, no code or formatting limits | You can build contracts using form blocks | You cannot visually build contracts | You cannot visually build contracts | Contracts use structured templates, not free-form builders | |
Legally binding e-signatures | Collect secure signatures with audit trails and signer verification | Contracts support legal e-signatures | Contracts support legal e-signatures | E-signatures meet standard legal requirements | Contracts support legally binding signatures | |
Multi-signature / signees | Collect signatures from multiple people on the same contract | You can collect multiple signatures, setup is limited | You can collect multiple signatures, with fixed roles | You cannot collect signatures from multiple people | 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 | Reminders send automatically | You can send automatic reminders | You can send automatic reminders | Signing reminders send automatically | |
Dynamic data/variables | Auto-fill contract content with client and project data | You can use smart fields in contracts | You can use smart fields in contracts | You can insert custom fields | Variables auto-fill contract fields | |
Contract automation triggers | Trigger automated workflows the moment a contract is signed | Contracts trigger workflows | Contracts can trigger workflows | Contracts can trigger workflows | Contracts can trigger workflows only if configured | |
View notifications | See when contracts are opened and reviewed | You receive signing notifications | You receive contract notifications | You receive email 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 | You cannot customize signer fields | You cannot customize signer fields | Not supported. 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 | Basic custom fields | Basic custom fields | Not supported | Custom fields available with configuration | |
INVOICES & PAYMENTS | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Create invoices and get paid | Send invoices and collect payments in one connected flow | Invoices with payment plans | Invoices with instant online payments | Invoices with Stripe and PayPal | Full invoicing with payment tracking | |
Fully branded invoices | Match invoices to your brand with custom logos, colors, and layout | You can brand invoices | You can brand invoices | Basic invoicing (no smart tax automation) | Invoices support logos, colors, and branding | |
Drag and drop invoice builder | Create custom invoice layouts visually without formatting limits | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Template-based (no drag-and-drop designer) | Visual builder but complex setup | |
Customizable line items | Edit pricing, quantities, descriptions, and structure freely | You can edit line items | You can edit line items | You can customize invoice line items | You can edit invoice line items | |
Item or invoice discounts | Apply discounts at the item or full invoice level | You can apply discounts | You can apply discounts | You can add discounts to line items | You can apply discounts to invoices | |
Customizable taxes | Create tax rules that match your location and use case | You can set tax rates | You can set tax rates | You can set custom tax rules | You can configure tax rates | |
ACH payments | Accept bank transfers for lower-fee payments | You can accept bank payments | You can accept bank transfers | ACH payments supported | You can accept bank payments | |
Stripe integration | Accept credit and debit cards instantly | You can accept payments via Stripe | You can accept payments via Stripe | Stripe integration available | You can accept payments through Stripe | |
Square integration | Collect in-person payments when needed | You cannot accept payments via Square | You cannot accept payments via Square | Square integration available | You cannot accept payments via Square | |
PayPal integration | Let clients pay using PayPal | You cannot accept payments via PayPal | You cannot accept payments via PayPal | PayPal integration available | You can accept payments via PayPal | |
Flexible partial payments | Collect deposits and split payments across milestones | You can accept partial payments | You can accept partial payments | You can set up payment schedules | You can accept partial payments | |
Payment plans | Break invoices into scheduled installments | You can split invoices into payments | You can split invoices into payments | You can set up payment schedules | You can split invoices into installments | |
Automated recurring invoices | Automatically send invoices on a recurring schedule | You can schedule invoices, not subscriptions | You can schedule payments, not subscriptions | Recurring invoices (no automated subscription portal) | You can schedule recurring invoices | |
Subscription management | Manage ongoing client subscriptions and billing | You cannot manage subscriptions | You cannot manage subscriptions | Recurring invoices (no automated subscription portal) | Subscriptions can be managed with setup | |
Automated payment reminders | Follow up automatically until invoices are paid | Payment reminders send automatically | Payment reminders send automatically | Automated reminders supported | Payment reminders send automatically | |
Reusable invoice templates | Reuse invoice layouts without rebuilding each time | You can reuse invoice templates | You can reuse invoice templates | You can reuse templates and content | You can reuse invoice templates | |
Multiple currency support | Bill clients globally in their local currency | You can use one account currency | You can use one account currency only | Basic support (no automated exchange rates) | You can invoice in multiple currencies with account limits | |
Invoice automation triggers | Trigger automated workflows when invoices are sent or paid | Contracts trigger workflows | Contracts can trigger workflows | Simple triggers (no multi-step automation) | Contracts can trigger workflows only if configured | |
View notifications | See when invoices are opened and paid | You receive signing notifications | You receive contract notifications | Activity log (no real-time updates) | You receive notifications when contracts are viewed or signed | |
Built-in expense tracking | Track project-related costs alongside invoices | You cannot track expenses | You cannot track expenses | You can track expenses | You can track expenses | |
Invoice deposits | Collect upfront payments before work starts | You can request deposits | You can request deposits | Deposit payments supported | You can request invoice deposits | |
Auto-invoice billable time | Turn tracked time into invoices automatically | There is no time to convert | There is no time to convert | You can add tracked time to invoices | Time can be invoiced with manual confirmation | |
Custom invoice data fields | Create custom invoice data you can sort, filter, and report on | Basic custom fields | Basic custom fields | Limited custom fields | Custom fields available with configuration | |
INBOX | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Centralized unified inbox | Manage email, chat, and messages from one shared inbox | Messages and emails live in one place | Messages and emails live in one inbox | Communication is limited to email sync | Messages are grouped by module, not unified | |
Full email integration | Connect and manage all your email accounts in one place | You can sync your email | You can sync your email | Email sync & templates included | You can sync external email accounts | |
Embeddable live chat | Add real-time chat to your website and client portals | You cannot add live chat to your site | You cannot add live chat to your site | No native live chat feature | Live chat is available via portal widgets | |
Instant direct messages | Message teammates privately without leaving your workspace | You cannot DM teammates | You cannot DM teammates | Email sync only | Direct messages exist with limits | |
Contextual project conversations | Keep conversations tied directly to the project they belong to | Messages are tied to projects | Messages are tied to projects | Email sync (limited to project-specific threads) | Context depends on where the message was sent | |
Team channels | Create shared spaces for team-wide discussions | You cannot create team channels | You cannot create team channels | Email sync only | You cannot create team chat channels | |
Customized channels | Organize channels by team, topic, or workflow | Channels are not supported | Channels are not supported | Not supported | Not supported | |
@mentions | Notify teammates instantly inside conversations | You cannot mention teammates | You cannot mention teammates | Email sync only | @mentions work in specific areas only | |
Message read receipts | See when messages are read | You can see when clients read messages | You can see when clients read messages | Activity log (tracks when emails are opened) | Read receipts are not consistently visible | |
File sharing in chat | Share files directly inside conversations | You can share files in messages | You can share files in messages | Email sync only | Files are attached to records, not chat threads | |
Shared email inbox | Collaborate on incoming emails as a team | Team email is not shared | Team email is not shared | Not supported | Limited team email sharing | |
Inbox mobile app | Access and respond to messages on mobile | Mobile inbox available | Mobile inbox available | Limited mobile support | Mobile app has limited inbox features | |
Email reply to inbox | Reply from your email client and keep conversations synced | Email replies sync to conversations | Email replies sync to conversations | Email replies sync to inbox | Limited email reply support | |
FILES | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Store and manage files | Keep all client and project files in one organized place | Files are stored per project only | Files exist per project only | Basic storage (no dedicated file management system) | You can store and manage files centrally | |
Advanced folder organization | Organize files by project, client, or structure you choose | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Not supported | Project-based file sections | |
Folder permissions | Control who can view or edit folders | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Not supported | Role-based file access | |
People folders | Group files by person when needed | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Basic storage (no dedicated file management system) | Files are project-attached only | |
Project folders | Keep files scoped to each project | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Basic storage (no dedicated file management system) | Project-based file sections | |
In-app previews | Preview files instantly without downloading | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | External storage only | Preview via project files | |
Custom file data fields | Capture file metadata you can sort and filter | You can add custom fields to forms and records | You can add custom fields | Unlimited contact & project fields | You can add custom fields across modules | |
Built-in documents | Create and edit documents directly inside Plutio | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | You can connect quotes to contracts and invoices | Wiki-style documentation | |
Comments on files and docs | Leave comments directly on files and documents | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Not supported | Comments on project files | |
Bulk file actions | Move, tag, or manage many files at once | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Basic management (no bulk operations) | Limited bulk operations | |
Files search & filter | Find files quickly using search and filters | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Basic search (limited filtering options) | Search within project files | |
External cloud sync | Sync files with Google Drive or Dropbox | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | No native cloud sync | Via integrations only | |
Secure sharing controls | Restrict access with permissions or passwords | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Client portal only (no public sharing controls) | Role-based sharing controls | |
File sharing links | Share files externally with controlled access | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Client portal only (no direct sharing links) | Project-based sharing only | |
SCHEDULING | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Schedule meetings | Let clients book meetings directly without back-and-forth emails | Custom scheduler with workflows | Scheduler with intake forms | Simple scheduler, no team round-robin | Scheduler with calendar sync | |
Branded booking page | Build a fully branded, customizable booking system using a drag-and-drop editor | Branding options are limited | Branding options are limited | Basic scheduler (limited team coordination) | Booking pages support custom branding | |
Advanced availability management | Define flexible availability rules applied automatically to bookings | You can control availability | You can control availability | Basic scheduler (limited team coordination) | You can define availability rules | |
Automatic buffer times | Add buffer time automatically between meetings | You can add buffer times | You can add buffer times | Buffer time between meetings | You can add buffer times to bookings | |
Multiple meeting types | Create unlimited booking types with different rules and setups | You can offer multiple appointment types | You can offer multiple session types | Multiple session types supported | You can offer multiple booking types | |
Calendar sync (Google/Outlook) | Two-way calendar sync that stays up to date automatically | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Two-way sync (Google & Outlook) | Internal calendar only | |
Customizable booking confirmations | Fully customizable confirmation pages with no layout or branding limits | Confirmation customization is limited | Confirmation customization is limited | Custom confirmation emails | Confirmation messages have limited customization | |
Redirect after booking | Send bookers anywhere after scheduling, not just a fixed thank-you page | You cannot redirect after booking | You cannot redirect after booking | Included. Redirect after booking supported | Redirects require workflow configuration | |
Booking automation triggers | Trigger automated workflows the moment a meeting is booked | Contracts trigger workflows | Contracts can trigger workflows | Trigger actions on booking | Contracts can trigger workflows only if configured | |
Smart meeting reminders | Send automatic reminders without manual follow-ups | Meeting reminders send automatically | Meeting reminders send automatically | Auto meeting reminders | Meeting reminders send automatically | |
Automatic timezone detection | Handle timezones automatically without manual adjustments | Timezones adjust automatically | Timezones adjust automatically | Supported | Timezones adjust automatically | |
Paid appointments (Stripe/PayPal) | Collect payments during booking without extra steps | Requires manual setup | Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts) | Not supported | Payments via integrations only | |
Custom booking forms | Build booking forms with full control over questions and layout | Booking forms are fixed | Booking forms are fixed | You can collect info on booking | You can customize booking forms | |
Minimum notice / daily booking limits | Set booking limits to control lead time and daily volume | You can set booking limits | You can set booking limits | Booking limits & notice supported | You can set booking limits | |
Rescheduling and cancellation controls | Define flexible rules for rescheduling and cancellations | Clients can reschedule or cancel | Clients can reschedule or cancel | Not supported | Clients can reschedule or cancel bookings | |
AUTOMATION | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Automated workflows builder | Build advanced workflows visually without code or rigid templates | Visual node-based Flows builder | AI-powered workflow builder with branching | Trigger-based automation, no visual builder | Workflow automation with triggers | |
Trigger-based workflows | Start workflows from real events across projects, clients, and payments | You can automate automation actions with workflows | You can automate actions with workflows | Event-driven automation supported | You can build trigger-based workflows | |
Schedule-based workflows | Run workflows on schedules you control, not fixed intervals | Workflows cannot repeat on a schedule | Workflows cannot repeat on a schedule | Not supported | Workflows can run on schedules | |
Multi-step workflows | Chain multiple actions into one continuous automation | Workflows can include multiple steps | Workflows can include multiple steps | Single actions. Complex multi-step flows not supported | You can chain multiple automation steps | |
True/False branching | Create conditional paths instead of one-size-fits-all flows | Branching exists, but is limited | Branching exists, but options are limited | Linear workflows only | Conditional logic is supported | |
Delay-based actions | Add precise timing between steps, down to minutes or days | You can delay workflow steps | You can delay workflow steps | Supported. You can delay workflow steps | You can delay actions | |
Create & update records | Create, update, or move records automatically across the system | Creation actions are limited | Creation actions are limited | Auto-create projects & invoices supported | Records can be created automatically with setup | |
Move & duplicate records | Reorganize work automatically without manual cleanup | Items cannot be duplicated automatically | Items cannot be duplicated automatically | Not supported | Records can be duplicated automatically | |
Delete & archive records | Automatically archive or remove records based on rules | Items cannot be deleted automatically | Items cannot be deleted via automation | Manual only | Deletion requires safeguards and rules | |
API calls (webhooks) | Trigger or receive real-time events from external systems | You cannot use APIs or webhooks | You cannot use APIs or webhooks | Supported via webhooks (no visual designer) | You can trigger API calls and webhooks | |
Send emails | Send automated emails tied to real workflow events | Workflows can send emails | Workflows can send emails | Automation can trigger emails | Emails can be sent automatically | |
Post comments | Add notes or comments automatically where work happens | You cannot post comments via automation | You cannot post comments via automation | No internal commenting system | Comments can be posted via workflows | |
Complete automation logs | See exactly what ran, when, and why | You cannot view automation logs | You cannot view automation logs | Basic activity log (no detailed execution history) | Automation activity is logged | |
Auto-fill data/variables | Pass data between steps dynamically without manual mapping | You can use smart fields | You can use smart fields | You can use tokens for dynamic data | Variables work across automation | |
Cross-entity connections | Run workflows that span projects, tasks, proposals, invoices, and more | Forms, payments, and bookings trigger workflows | Forms, bookings, and payments trigger workflows | Linear only (limited cross-module connectivity) | Actions can trigger across modules | |
FORMS | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Create branded forms | Build fully branded forms that match your workflow and client experience | Branded forms with smart fields | Questionnaires with limited styling | Basic form templates, no branding control | Form builder with file uploads | |
Drag-and-drop form builder | Design forms visually with full layout control, no code required | You can build contracts using form blocks | You cannot visually build contracts | Template-based (fixed form structures) | Contracts use structured templates, not free-form builders | |
Reusable form templates | Reuse form structures without rebuilding from scratch | You can reuse form templates | You cannot reuse form templates | Included. You can save and reuse forms | You can reuse form templates | |
Custom form data fields | Collect structured data you can sort, filter, and report on | You can add custom fields to forms and records | You can add custom fields | Included. You can add custom fields to forms | You can add custom fields across modules | |
Smart conditional logic | Show or hide fields based on responses, not static forms | Fields can change based on answers | Fields cannot change based on answers | Not supported. Forms are static | Fields can change based on answers | |
Instant email notifications | Get notified immediately when forms are submitted | You can email on submission | You can email on submission | Included. Email alerts on submission | Notifications can send on submission | |
Form automation triggers | Trigger automated workflows when a form is submitted | Contracts trigger workflows | Contracts can trigger workflows | Included. Form submission can start workflows | Contracts can trigger workflows only if configured | |
Embed forms | Embed forms anywhere without layout restrictions | You can embed forms | You can embed forms | Included. You can embed forms on your site | Forms can be embedded on websites | |
Advanced field preferences | Control required, hidden, and default field behavior | Field behavior is limited | Field behavior is fixed | Basic field settings (no advanced validation) | Field behavior options are limited | |
Comprehensive field types | Collect text, files, dates, selections, and more | Field types are limited | Field types are limited | Standard fields (text, date, select) supported | Most common field types are available | |
Form signature field | Collect legally binding signatures directly inside forms | Forms can include signatures | Forms can include signatures | Included. Electronic signatures available on forms | Forms can include signatures | |
File upload fields | Accept file uploads as part of form submissions | Clients can upload files | File uploads are limited | Included. Clients can upload files to forms | Clients can upload files | |
Redirect after submission | Send submitters to a custom next step, not a fixed thank-you page | You cannot redirect after submit | You cannot redirect after submit | Included. Custom redirect links supported | Redirects after submission are supported | |
CRM | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Manage clients and leads | Manage contacts and companies in one connected system | CRM with auto-created client records | Pipeline with AI lead prioritization | Contact management with lead tracking | Full CRM with lead portals | |
Full company management | Track organizations, not just individual contacts | Companies exist, contacts come first | Companies exist, but contacts come first | Organization tracking (no separate company records) | You can group contacts into companies | |
Custom contact data fields | Collect and manage structured contact data you define | You can add CRM fields | You can add CRM fields | Included. Unlimited custom contact fields | CRM fields are customizable | |
Complete activity timeline | See every interaction with a client in one place | You can see full activity history | You can see full activity history | Included. Tracks interactions per contact | Activity history exists across modules | |
Contacts labeling and grouping | Organize contacts flexibly without rigid pipelines | You can tag and segment contacts | You can tag and segment contacts | Included. Tag-based organization supported | Contacts can be tagged and segmented | |
WIKI | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Comprehensive knowledge base | Create an internal wiki for processes, docs, and guides | You cannot create an internal wiki | You cannot create an internal wiki | Not supported. No built-in wiki or SOP system | You can create internal knowledge bases | |
Beautiful rich text pages | Write structured, formatted content without complexity | Not supported | Not supported (requires integration) | Not supported. No rich-text page builder | 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 | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Custom dashboards and pages | Build dashboards around what matters to you, not fixed metrics | Dubsado has a home page, not custom dashboards | HoneyBook does not have custom dashboards | Fixed layout | Full custom dashboards | |
Drag-and-drop dashboard builder | Design dashboards visually with full layout control | Included | Limited dashboard widgets | Not supported. Dashboard is pre-configured | Widget-based, no drag-drop | |
Charts widget | Visualize data with customizable charts | Requires manual setup | Basic charts only | Basic financial charts (no custom chart creation) | Pre-built reports only | |
Metrics widget | Track key numbers without manual reporting | Included | Basic metrics only | Standard metrics only (revenue, leads) | Standard metrics only | |
Goals widget | Monitor progress toward defined goals | Not supported | Not supported (requires integration) | Not supported. No internal goal tracking system | Not supported | |
Notes widget | Add contextual notes directly to dashboards | Not supported | Not supported (requires integration) | Not supported. No dashboard notes widget | Not supported | |
Calendar widget | View upcoming events alongside work and metrics | Included | Calendar on dashboard | Included. Agenda and upcoming tasks displayed | Limited calendar integration | |
Financial widgets | Track revenue and expenses in the same view | Included | Revenue & invoice tracking | Included. Revenue and pending payments tracking | Full financial dashboard | |
BRANDING | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
White-label and branding | Run the entire platform under your brand | Dubsado branding, not white-label | HoneyBook branding, not white-label | Logo only | Full white-label with custom domains | |
Custom interface theme | Apply your brand colors across the system | UI theme cannot be customized | UI theme cannot be customized | Not supported. Themes are pre-defined | UI theme options are limited | |
Stylesheet customization | Fine-tune styling beyond basic theming | You cannot apply custom CSS | You cannot apply custom CSS | Not supported. No custom CSS access | Custom CSS is supported with constraints | |
Custom login/signup pages | Use branded authentication pages instead of generic screens | Login pages cannot be customized | Login pages cannot be customized | Logo branding only (fixed layout) | Login and signup pages can be customized | |
Email branding | Send all system emails with your branding | You can brand outgoing emails | You can brand outgoing emails | Included. Add your logo to all messages | Emails can be branded | |
Custom brand fonts | Use your own fonts throughout the platform | You cannot use custom fonts | You cannot use custom fonts | Not supported. No custom font uploads | Font selection is limited | |
Custom brand logos | Replace all platform logos with your own | You can add your logo | You can add your logo | Included. Your logo on documents and emails | You can add custom logos | |
Custom domain name | Run everything on your own domain | Not supported | Not supported (requires integration) | Not supported. Redirects to 17hats domain | Not supported | |
Custom email SMTP | Send emails from your own email infrastructure | Not supported | Not supported (requires integration) | Included. Send from your SMTP server | 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 | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Flexible workspace setup | Shape the platform to match how your business works | Dubsado has fixed workspace | HoneyBook has fixed workspace | 17hats has fixed workspace | With setup | |
Main menu editor | Add, remove, or reorder navigation items freely | You cannot customize navigation | You cannot customize navigation | Fixed menu (no customization) | Navigation can be rearranged with setup | |
User-based menus | Show different navigation for different roles | Menus are the same for all users | Menus are the same for all users | Not supported (fixed menu for all user roles) | Menus depend on assigned roles | |
Custom user roles | Create role types beyond preset permissions | You cannot define custom roles | You cannot define custom roles | Basic roles only (no granular permissions) | You can define custom roles | |
Advanced user permissions | Control access at a granular level | Permissions are not configurable | Permissions are not configurable | Not supported (no granular permission settings) | Permissions can be configured in detail | |
SSO / OAuth | Support enterprise-grade single sign-on | You cannot use SSO | You cannot use SSO | Email & password login only | SSO is available on higher plans | |
INTEGRATIONS | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Connect with other tools | Integrate with external systems without lock-in | Zapier only | Zapier only | Zapier plus direct integrations | Native integrations via API | |
Zapier integration | Connect to thousands of apps without custom code | You can connect Dubsado to Zapier | You can connect HoneyBook to Zapier | Included. Full Zapier connectivity | Zapier can connect to SuiteDash | |
Make.com integration | Build advanced automation scenarios visually | You cannot connect via Make | You cannot connect via Make | Not supported natively | Make can connect to SuiteDash | |
Pabbly Connect | Connect services without usage-based limits | You cannot connect via Pabbly | You cannot connect via Pabbly | Not supported natively | Pabbly can connect using API | |
Full REST API access | Build custom integrations with full system access | You cannot access an API | You cannot access an API | Included. API access available for developers | You can access a REST API | |
Incoming & outgoing webhooks | Send and receive real-time events | You cannot use webhooks | You cannot use webhooks | Supported. Automate events via webhooks | Webhooks are supported | |
PLATFORM | Plutio | Dubsado | HoneyBook | 17hats | Bonsai | SuiteDash |
Mobile apps | Access your business from native mobile apps | iOS and Android with Tap to Pay | Full-featured iOS and Android apps | Limited features | Mobile-responsive, no native apps | |
iOS app | Full-featured iPhone app | You can use Dubsado on iOS | You can use HoneyBook on iOS | Limited features (legacy mobile interface) | Mobile app exists with limited functionality | |
Android app | Full-featured Android app | You can use Dubsado on Android | You can use HoneyBook on Android | Limited features (legacy mobile interface) | Android app exists with limited functionality | |
Mac desktop app | Native macOS app for desktop workflows | There is no desktop app | There is no desktop app | Web only. No native Mac application | No native Mac desktop app exists | |
Windows desktop app | Native Windows app for desktop workflows | There is no desktop app | There is no desktop app | Web only. No native Windows application | No native Windows desktop app exists |
How to migrate from Dubsado to Plutio (Step-by-Step)
Switching from Dubsado 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 Dubsado data
Download your clients, projects, and invoices as CSV files from your Dubsado dashboard.
Step 2: Map and Import into Plutio
Upload your CSVs to Plutio. Our importer allows you to map Dubsado 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 Dubsado, 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 Dubsado?
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 Dubsado?
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 Dubsado 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 Dubsado 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
