Best SuiteDash alternatives for freelancers & agencies (2026) - when you spend more time setting up than getting paid

SuiteDash is built for service businesses who want CRM, projects, invoicing, and client portals in one platform. It's good enough for managing clients and business operations, but once you need a smooth daily workflow with less configuration, you usually end up wanting something simpler to run.

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

Last updated January 2026

What is SuiteDash

SuiteDash is a business management platform for service-based businesses. It combines CRM, project management, invoicing, client portals, file sharing, and internal collaboration. It's built to help teams centralize operations with a lot of customization options.

TLDR (summary)

SuiteDash is good for CRM, projects, invoicing, and client portals. It is not built to run ongoing client work where proposals, contracts, tasks, files, and payments flow together without constant configuration. If you want paperwork plus a clear project setup where work, communication, and payments stay tied together from start to finish, Plutio is the most complete SuiteDash alternative for freelancers and agencies in 2026.

Choose Plutio over SuiteDash 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.

What SuiteDash does well

SuiteDash is built for CRM, projects, invoicing, and client portals. It's especially good when you want a lot of features in one platform and are comfortable configuring how everything fits together.

It fits best for teams who need broad business management and are willing to invest time in setup and maintenance.

SuiteDash works well for:

Managing leads and clients with CRM-style records
Managing projects with tasks and assignments
Sending invoices and collecting payments
Building customizable client portals
Sharing files with clients
Running basic automations and reminders

For service businesses who need broad coverage and have time to configure, it's a solid fit if workflow simplicity is not the priority.

Where SuiteDash falls short

SuiteDash works well until you need a smooth day-to-day workflow. Once you want to run client work without constant configuration, you end up spending more time managing the system than doing the work.

That gap shows up when the project is active, but updating tasks, sharing files, and sending progress updates all require navigating between different sections.

Common gaps include:

Long setup phase before the system feels usable
Basic actions require multiple steps across different modules
Project management that feels less direct than modern task tools
No clear place for feedback tied to tasks and files
Client communication not naturally tied to work progress
Accepted proposals do not turn into a project plan automatically

Most people switch when they need configuration to feel like it happened once, not ongoing.

The initial setup is overwhelming. The learning curve is significant, and the interface looks like it was designed years ago. However, the feature set is impressive for the price.
VR
Verified ReviewerAgency Owner

What a professional SuiteDash alternative needs

A professional SuiteDash alternative should keep the all-in-one idea, but handle what happens after setup. It should connect proposals, contracts, tasks, files, invoices, and payments to the same project so the work stays organized.

The goal is one place where agreements, work steps, and billing stay tied together, so you do not rebuild projects in multiple apps or spend time maintaining configuration.

A strong alternative should include:

Proposals that can turn into a project plan, so you don't rebuild setup after approval
Contracts with e-signatures tied to the same project, so agreements stay linked to work
Project management for tasks, deadlines, and timelines, so work stays clear day to day
Files and feedback tied to tasks, so reviews and changes don't get lost
Client portal access for progress, files, and approvals, so clients don't chase status
Invoices and payments tied to the project or milestones, so billing matches the plan
Approvals for deliverables and changes, so signoffs are clear
Branding for client-facing pages, so it feels like your business

This is what separates a single-purpose tool from a complete client work tool.

#1. Plutio - top all-in-one SuiteDash alternative in 2026

SuiteDash promises everything in one place. CRM. Projects. Invoicing. Portals. LMS. Scheduling. It's all there... somewhere. The catch is you have to find it, configure it, and maintain it.

Most users spend their first few weeks just trying to get SuiteDash working the way they imagined. And even after setup, every change feels like a risk. You tweak one thing and something else breaks.

That's where Plutio is different. Instead of building your workflow from scratch, you get one that already works. Proposals, contracts, invoices, projects, and client portals are connected by default. You don't configure. You just use it.

What running a client project actually looks like

Here's the difference:

You send a proposal with scope, pricing, and terms
The client approves and signs in one click
A project is created automatically with tasks based on the scope
An invoice is tied to the same agreement, ready to send
The client gets access to a branded portal where they can see progress
Onboarding forms collect files, assets, and answers
Meetings and follow-ups run based on actual project steps

No configuration. No custom modules. No wondering if you set it up right.

Why this matters for your day-to-day

With SuiteDash, you spend time configuring. With Plutio, you spend time working.

That means:

Clients see their project status without asking you
Invoices stay tied to milestones, so billing matches the plan
Tasks, files, and messages live in one place instead of scattered across apps
Follow-ups and reminders run automatically based on real progress

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

What about switching?

You can import your clients, invoices, and project history from SuiteDash into Plutio. You don't have to start from scratch.

Plutio has been refined for over 10 years based on real feedback from freelancers and agencies. The workflows are stable, tested, and built for daily use.

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

#2. HoneyBook

Freelancers use HoneyBook for client intake, scheduling, and payments. HoneyBook collects inquiries, sends proposals, books calls, and accepts payments in a structured way.

HoneyBook appeals to freelancers who want a clean process for handling new leads and getting paid without much setup. Proposals, contracts, and payments are all supported, and the experience moves a client from inquiry to booking.

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

HoneyBook works well for freelancers who mainly need intake, scheduling, and payments in one place.

HoneyBook is less suitable for freelancers who want projects, tasks, and client communication to stay connected after a contract is signed.

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

#3. Dubsado

Freelancers use Dubsado for its flexibility. Dubsado offers advanced forms, custom fields, and rule-based automation that let freelancers build highly customized intake and approval flows.

Dubsado supports proposals, contracts, invoices, scheduling, and complex intake logic, which makes it attractive for freelancers who want fine-grained control over how information is collected and processed.

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

Dubsado works well for freelancers who want deep customization and complex intake flows.

Dubsado is less suitable for freelancers who want a simple, connected app that stays easy to manage during daily client work.

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

#4. 17hats

Freelancers use 17hats to handle proposals, contracts, invoices, scheduling, and basic automation in a single platform. Some freelancers also rely on 17hats for light project tracking.

17hats provides broad coverage but not deep flexibility. Workflows are fairly rigid, customization options are limited, and client communication is not a central focus. Automation exists, but does not adapt easily to more complex or evolving workflows.

17hats works for freelancers who want one tool to handle many basic needs without much configuration.

17hats becomes limiting for freelancers who want flexible workflows, deeper automation, or a more connected experience across projects, communication, and ongoing client management.

17hats was designed for sole proprietors and it shows. There are no multiple log-ins for teams, which makes it very difficult to scale as soon as you have more than one person in the system.
VR
Verified ReviewerAgency Owner

#5. FreshBooks

FreshBooks is primarily an accounting and invoicing platform. Freelancers use FreshBooks for invoicing, payments, time tracking, expenses, and basic financial reporting.

For freelancers who need help managing finances, FreshBooks does this well. Invoicing and payment collection are straightforward, and the platform focuses on bookkeeping accuracy rather than workflow design.

FreshBooks does not handle proposals, contracts, onboarding, project setup, or client communication. Because of this, freelancers typically pair FreshBooks with other tools to manage agreements and projects.

FreshBooks works well for freelancers whose main need is accounting and invoicing.

FreshBooks is not a fit for freelancers who want to manage the full workflow from proposal to project completion in one connected app.

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

#6. Bonsai

Bonsai is another option for freelancers looking to manage their business. It offers tools for project management and client communication, often used as a direct alternative to SuiteDash.

While it provides a solid feature set for internal work, many freelancers find that it lacks the deep integration between proposals, contracts, and invoicing that Plutio offers in one connected workspace.

Bonsai works well if you need basic project management and internal collaboration.

It is less suitable if you want a fully whitelabeled experience where every part of your business is connected under one roof.

Which alternative fits you best?

Take this quick quiz to find your perfect match.

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Final verdict

What the data shows

We reviewed extensive user feedback and real-world setups to understand how SuiteDash and Plutio differ in practice.

G2 ratings: SuiteDash holds 4.8 stars from 595 reviews. Plutio holds 4.3 stars from 57 reviews. SuiteDash reviews often come from users who value flexibility and are willing to invest time configuring everything.

How this plays out in real work: SuiteDash can do almost anything, but it rarely does it out of the box. Many users spend weeks setting things up before real work begins. Plutio takes a different approach, connecting common freelancer and agency workflows by default.

The comparison table makes this tradeoff clear. Both tools cover similar ground. Plutio simply gets you to usable faster.

Customer outcomes: YazMarketing chose Plutio to avoid long setup cycles and reached results faster.

The bottom line: SuiteDash is powerful if you enjoy building systems. Plutio is better if you want to start working immediately.

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

SuiteDash alternatives comparison table

How each tool compares across key capabilities.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT	Plutio	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Manage projects and tasks	Fully flexible project and task setup you can shape to your workflow	Flexible project management with multiple modules	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	You can control project access using roles and permission rules	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	You can create multiple boards, but each must be configured manually	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	You cannot embed live project boards externally	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	You can share projects using permission-based access	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	You can define stages and milestones per project	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	Modules are separate but can be linked manually	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	Custom fields available	Basic custom fields	Basic custom fields	Limited custom fields
Kanban boards	Drag-and-drop tasks across customizable columns	You can view and manage tasks in Kanban boards	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	You can view records in tables, but columns and behavior are rigid	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	You can manage tasks in a standard list view	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	You can see tasks and deadlines on a calendar	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 available for project planning	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	You can break tasks into subtasks	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	Included	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	You can comment directly on tasks	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	You can attach files directly to tasks	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	You can assign priorities to tasks	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	You can label and color-code 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	You can assign multiple people, but coordination is manual	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	You can reuse task templates	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	Permissions are controlled by roles, not per-task rules	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	You can define task dependencies	You cannot link tasks together	You cannot link tasks together	Not supported
Recurring tasks	Automate repeating work with flexible schedules	You can create recurring tasks	You cannot create recurring tasks	You cannot create recurring tasks	Basic recurring
Custom task data fields	Add task-level fields for tracking custom details	Custom fields available	Basic custom fields	Basic custom fields	Limited custom fields
TIME TRACKING	Plutio	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Time tracking system	Easily track time using timers or manual entries	You can track time using timers or manual entry	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	You can track time directly on tasks	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	You can track total time per project	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	You must manually define what counts as billable	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	Tracked time can be invoiced with manual confirmation	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	You can generate detailed time reports	You cannot generate timesheets	You cannot generate timesheets	You cannot generate timesheet reports
Team timesheets	See how each team member tracks their time	You can view time logs per team member	You cannot see team time reports	You cannot see team time reports	No team breakdown for time entries
PROPOSALS	Plutio	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Create and send proposals	Create proposals clients can review, approve, and sign in one flow	Proposals with line items and attachments	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	You can edit proposals visually, but layout control is complex	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	You can use prebuilt proposal templates	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	You can see status changes, not detailed viewing analytics	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	You cannot message clients inside proposals	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	Limited proposal-to-booking flow	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	You can convert proposals to invoices with manual steps	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	You can create packages using configuration rules	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	Pricing tables exist but do not update dynamically	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	You can use variables to auto-fill proposal content	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	You can set proposal expiration dates	You can set proposal expiry	You cannot set proposal expiry dates	You cannot set proposal expiry dates
PDF Export	Download as branded PDFs	You can download proposals as PDFs	You can download proposal PDFs	You can download proposal PDFs	You can download proposals as PDFs
Reusable content blocks	Create reusable proposal sections you can reuse on demand	You can reuse content via templates, not blocks	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	Clients can sign proposals online	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	Custom fields available with configuration	Basic custom fields	Basic custom fields	Not supported. You cannot customize signer fields
CONTRACTS	Plutio	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Create and sign contracts	Create, send, and sign contracts in one continuous flow	Full contract management	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	Contracts use structured templates, not free-form builders	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	Contracts support legally binding signatures	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	You can add multiple signers to contracts	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	You can use predefined contract templates	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	Signing reminders send automatically	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	Variables auto-fill contract fields	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	Contracts can trigger workflows only if configured	Contracts can trigger workflows	Contracts trigger workflows	Contracts can trigger workflows
View notifications	See when contracts are opened and reviewed	You receive notifications when contracts are viewed or signed	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	Signed contracts can be downloaded with certificates	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	Signer fields are configurable with limits	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	Custom fields available with configuration	Basic custom fields	Basic custom fields	Not supported
INVOICES & PAYMENTS	Plutio	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Create invoices and get paid	Send invoices and collect payments in one connected flow	Full invoicing with payment tracking	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	Invoices support logos, colors, and branding	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	Visual builder but complex setup	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	You can edit invoice 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	You can apply discounts to invoices	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	You can configure tax rates	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	You can accept bank payments	You can accept bank transfers	You can accept bank payments	ACH payments supported
Stripe integration	Accept credit and debit cards instantly	You can accept payments through Stripe	You can accept payments via Stripe	You can accept payments via Stripe	Stripe integration available
Square integration	Collect in-person payments when needed	You cannot accept payments via Square	You cannot accept payments via Square	You cannot accept payments via Square	Square integration available
PayPal integration	Let clients pay using PayPal	You can accept payments via PayPal	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 accept partial payments	You can accept partial payments	You can accept partial payments	You can set up payment schedules
Payment plans	Break invoices into scheduled installments	You can split invoices into installments	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	You can schedule recurring invoices	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	Subscriptions can be managed with setup	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 send automatically	Payment reminders send automatically	Payment reminders send automatically	Automated reminders supported
Reusable invoice templates	Reuse invoice layouts without rebuilding each time	You can reuse invoice templates	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	You can invoice in multiple currencies with account limits	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	Contracts can trigger workflows only if configured	Contracts can trigger workflows	Contracts trigger workflows	Simple triggers (no multi-step automation)
View notifications	See when invoices are opened and paid	You receive notifications when contracts are viewed or signed	You receive contract notifications	You receive signing notifications	Activity log (no real-time updates)
Built-in expense tracking	Track project-related costs alongside invoices	You can track expenses	You cannot track expenses	You cannot track expenses	You can track expenses
Invoice deposits	Collect upfront payments before work starts	You can request invoice deposits	You can request deposits	You can request deposits	Deposit payments supported
Auto-invoice billable time	Turn tracked time into invoices automatically	Time can be invoiced with manual confirmation	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	Custom fields available with configuration	Basic custom fields	Basic custom fields	Limited custom fields
INBOX	Plutio	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Centralized unified inbox	Manage email, chat, and messages from one shared inbox	Messages are grouped by module, not unified	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	You can sync external email accounts	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 available via portal widgets	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 messages exist with limits	You cannot DM teammates	You cannot DM teammates	Email sync only
Contextual project conversations	Keep conversations tied directly to the project they belong to	Context depends on where the message was sent	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	You cannot create team chat channels	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 work in specific areas only	You cannot mention teammates	You cannot mention teammates	Email sync only
Message read receipts	See when messages are read	Read receipts are not consistently visible	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	Files are attached to records, not chat threads	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	Limited team email sharing	Team email is not shared	Team email is not shared	Not supported
Inbox mobile app	Access and respond to messages on mobile	Mobile app has limited inbox features	Mobile inbox available	Mobile inbox available	Limited mobile support
Email reply to inbox	Reply from your email client and keep conversations synced	Limited email reply support	Email replies sync to conversations	Email replies sync to conversations	Email replies sync to inbox
FILES	Plutio	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Store and manage files	Keep all client and project files in one organized place	You can store and manage files centrally	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	Project-based file sections	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Not supported
Folder permissions	Control who can view or edit folders	Role-based file access	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Not supported
People folders	Group files by person when needed	Files are project-attached only	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Basic storage (no dedicated file management system)
Project folders	Keep files scoped to each project	Project-based file sections	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Basic storage (no dedicated file management system)
In-app previews	Preview files instantly without downloading	Preview via project files	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	External storage only
Custom file data fields	Capture file metadata you can sort and filter	You can add custom fields across modules	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	Wiki-style documentation	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	Comments on project files	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Not supported
Bulk file actions	Move, tag, or manage many files at once	Limited bulk operations	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Basic management (no bulk operations)
Files search & filter	Find files quickly using search and filters	Search within project files	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Basic search (limited filtering options)
External cloud sync	Sync files with Google Drive or Dropbox	Via integrations only	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	No native cloud sync
Secure sharing controls	Restrict access with permissions or passwords	Role-based sharing controls	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Client portal only (no public sharing controls)
File sharing links	Share files externally with controlled access	Project-based sharing only	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Client portal only (no direct sharing links)
SCHEDULING	Plutio	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Schedule meetings	Let clients book meetings directly without back-and-forth emails	Scheduler with calendar sync	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 support custom branding	Branding options are limited	Branding options are limited	Basic scheduler (limited team coordination)
Advanced availability management	Define flexible availability rules applied automatically to bookings	You can define availability rules	You can control availability	You can control availability	Basic scheduler (limited team coordination)
Automatic buffer times	Add buffer time automatically between meetings	You can add buffer times to bookings	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	You can offer multiple booking types	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	Internal calendar only	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 messages have limited customization	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 require workflow configuration	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	Contracts can trigger workflows only if configured	Contracts can trigger workflows	Contracts trigger workflows	Trigger actions on booking
Smart meeting reminders	Send automatic reminders without manual follow-ups	Meeting reminders send automatically	Meeting reminders send automatically	Meeting reminders send automatically	Auto meeting reminders
Automatic timezone detection	Handle timezones automatically without manual adjustments	Timezones adjust automatically	Timezones adjust automatically	Timezones adjust automatically	Supported
Paid appointments (Stripe/PayPal)	Collect payments during booking without extra steps	Payments via integrations only	Fixed themes (non-customizable layouts)	Requires manual setup	Not supported
Custom booking forms	Build booking forms with full control over questions and layout	You can customize booking forms	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	You can set booking limits	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 bookings	Clients can reschedule or cancel	Clients can reschedule or cancel	Not supported
AUTOMATION	Plutio	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Automated workflows builder	Build advanced workflows visually without code or rigid templates	Workflow automation with triggers	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	You can build trigger-based workflows	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	Workflows can run on schedules	Workflows cannot repeat on a schedule	Workflows cannot repeat on a schedule	Not supported
Multi-step workflows	Chain multiple actions into one continuous automation	You can chain multiple automation steps	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	Conditional logic is 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	You can delay actions	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	Records can be created automatically with setup	Creation actions are limited	Creation actions are limited	Auto-create projects & invoices supported
Move & duplicate records	Reorganize work automatically without manual cleanup	Records can be duplicated automatically	Items cannot be duplicated automatically	Items cannot be duplicated automatically	Not supported
Delete & archive records	Automatically archive or remove records based on rules	Deletion requires safeguards and rules	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	You can trigger API calls and webhooks	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 automatically	Workflows can send emails	Workflows can send emails	Automation can trigger emails
Post comments	Add notes or comments automatically where work happens	Comments can be posted via workflows	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	Automation activity is logged	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 across automation	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	Actions can trigger across modules	Forms, bookings, and payments trigger workflows	Forms, payments, and bookings trigger workflows	Linear only (limited cross-module connectivity)
FORMS	Plutio	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Create branded forms	Build fully branded forms that match your workflow and client experience	Form builder with file uploads	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	Contracts use structured templates, not free-form builders	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	You can reuse form templates	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	You can add custom fields across modules	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	Fields can change based on answers	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	Notifications can send on submission	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	Contracts can trigger workflows only if configured	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 on websites	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	Most common field types are available	Field types are limited	Field types are limited	Standard fields (text, date, select) supported
Form signature field	Collect legally binding signatures directly inside forms	Forms can include signatures	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	Clients can upload files	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	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Manage clients and leads	Manage contacts and companies in one connected system	Full CRM with lead portals	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	You can group contacts into companies	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	CRM fields are customizable	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 exists across modules	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	Contacts can be tagged and segmented	You can tag and segment contacts	You can tag and segment contacts	Included. Tag-based organization supported
WIKI	Plutio	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Comprehensive knowledge base	Create an internal wiki for processes, docs, and guides	You can create internal knowledge bases	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	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Custom dashboards and pages	Build dashboards around what matters to you, not fixed metrics	Full 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	Widget-based, no drag-drop	Limited dashboard widgets	Included	Not supported. Dashboard is pre-configured
Charts widget	Visualize data with customizable charts	Pre-built reports only	Basic charts only	Requires manual setup	Basic financial charts (no custom chart creation)
Metrics widget	Track key numbers without manual reporting	Standard 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	Limited calendar integration	Calendar on dashboard	Included	Included. Agenda and upcoming tasks displayed
Financial widgets	Track revenue and expenses in the same view	Full financial dashboard	Revenue & invoice tracking	Included	Included. Revenue and pending payments tracking
BRANDING	Plutio	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
White-label and branding	Run the entire platform under your brand	Full white-label with custom domains	HoneyBook branding, not white-label	Dubsado branding, not white-label	Logo only
Custom interface theme	Apply your brand colors across the system	UI theme options are limited	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 supported with constraints	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	Login and signup pages can be customized	Login pages cannot be customized	Login pages cannot be customized	Logo branding only (fixed layout)
Email branding	Send all system emails with your branding	Emails can be branded	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	Font selection is limited	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	You can add custom logos	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	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Flexible workspace setup	Shape the platform to match how your business works	With setup	HoneyBook has fixed workspace	Dubsado has fixed workspace	17hats has fixed workspace
Main menu editor	Add, remove, or reorder navigation items freely	Navigation can be rearranged with setup	You cannot customize navigation	You cannot customize navigation	Fixed menu (no customization)
User-based menus	Show different navigation for different roles	Menus depend on assigned roles	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	You can define custom roles	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 can be configured in detail	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	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Connect with other tools	Integrate with external systems without lock-in	Native integrations via API	Zapier only	Zapier only	Zapier plus direct integrations
Zapier integration	Connect to thousands of apps without custom code	Zapier can connect to SuiteDash	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 can connect to SuiteDash	You cannot connect via Make	You cannot connect via Make	Not supported natively
Pabbly Connect	Connect services without usage-based limits	Pabbly can connect using 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	You can access a REST API	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	SuiteDash	HoneyBook	Dubsado	17hats	Bonsai
Mobile apps	Access your business from native mobile apps	Mobile-responsive, no native apps	Full-featured iOS and Android apps	iOS and Android with Tap to Pay	Limited features
iOS app	Full-featured iPhone app	Mobile app exists with limited functionality	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 exists with limited functionality	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	No native Mac desktop app exists	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	No native Windows desktop app exists	There is no desktop app	There is no desktop app	Web only. No native Windows application

How to migrate from SuiteDash to Plutio (Step-by-Step)

Switching from SuiteDash 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 SuiteDash data
Download your clients, projects, and invoices as CSV files from your SuiteDash dashboard.

Step 2: Map and Import into Plutio
Upload your CSVs to Plutio. Our importer allows you to map SuiteDash 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 SuiteDash, 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 SuiteDash?

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 SuiteDash?

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 SuiteDash 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 SuiteDash is great for solo freelancers starting out, Plutio provides the architectural depth needed to scale operations without switching tools again later.

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