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Employee time clock software provides a seamless solution for tracking work hours, managing schedules, and ensuring accurate payroll processing. However, finding the right software to manage your team’s hours can seem challenging, especially with several options available on the market. 

Using my experience in HR software, I tested and reviewed many of the top employee time clock software to help teams find the best solutions. My in-depth reviews below delve into these solutions, highlighting their key features, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, I’m confident you’ll be able to find your next time tracking software from this article. 

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Best Employee Time Clock Software Summary

Tools Price
Deel Flat rate user pricing, with a free version for businesses with up to 200 people
Monitask From $5.99/user/month
Insightful From $8/user/month
Buddy Punch From $3.99/user/month + $19/month base fee
TimeTrex From $5/user/month
Clockify From $5.49/user/month (billed annually)
Jibble From $2.52/user/month
WebHR From $2/employee/month
ClockInEasy From $4/user/month
Open Time Clock From $39/user/month
Compare Software Specs Side by Side

Compare Software Specs Side by Side

Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.

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How to Choose an Employee Time Clock Software

As you work through your own unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:

  • Ease of Use: The software should be intuitive and user-friendly for both administrators and employees. A complex interface can lead to errors and frustration, reducing the overall efficiency of the system. 
  • Integration Capabilities: Ensure the software can seamlessly integrate with your existing systems such as payroll, HR, and project management tools. This is important for maintaining a streamlined workflow and avoiding data silos. 
  • Mobile Accessibility: In today’s mobile-first world, having a time clock software that offers mobile access is essential. This is particularly important for businesses with remote or field employees who need to clock in and out from various locations. 
  • Reporting and Analytics: The ability to generate detailed reports on employee hours, overtime, and attendance is vital for making informed business decisions. Look for a software that offers customizable reporting options to meet your specific needs. 
  • Security Features: Protecting employee data is paramount. Choose a time clock software that offers strong security measures such as data encryption, secure login, and compliance with data protection regulations. 

Best Employee Time Clock Software Reviews

Here’s my in-depth analysis and overview of each employee time clock software. This will walk you through the pros and cons of each tool, their features, and their best use cases.

Best for remote teams

  • Free demo available
  • Flat rate user pricing, with a free version for businesses with up to 200 people
Visit Website
Rating: 4.8/5

Deel is a global HR and payroll platform built to help businesses hire, manage, and pay workers in multiple countries. It offers compliance, payroll, and HR solutions, making it easier to expand your workforce worldwide. 

Why I picked Deel: Deel’s time tracker is ideal for global remote teams. Its easy-to-use clock-in/clock-out widget works on desktop and mobile, letting remote employees log their hours from anywhere. Entries are automatically recorded in timesheets, reducing the chance of payroll errors. Permissions can be set for manual adjustments, so your team can log break times or make corrections as needed. This helps your remote employees stay on track and gives you accurate records to support payroll and productivity.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include invoicing, global payroll support, contractor classification, country-specific compliance, custom employment contracts, expense reimbursement, localized benefits, multi-currency payments, and mobile app support.

Integrations include Google Workspace, Hubstaff, Brex, Personio, Sage, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Workable, UKG Ready, QuickBooks, Xero, and BambooHR.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Mobile app available
  • Good payroll automation features
  • Emphasizes global compliance

Cons:

  • Could offer the ability to write more detailed notes for different work periods
  • Reports could be more customizable

Best for precise time tracking and online timesheets

  • 10-day free trial
  • From $5.99/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

Monitask is an employee monitoring and productivity tracking software. Its features include automated time tracking, online timesheets, and proof-of-work screenshots, making it easy for managers to oversee employee performance.

Why I picked Monitask: The software provides real-time tracking of employee activity and task progress through screen captures and detailed reporting. It captures employee activity in real-time, allowing you to see exactly what your team is working on and how time is spent. These real-time insights give you the data you need to make informed decisions about project timelines and team management.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include activity monitoring through screenshots, detailed timesheets, and time tracking on tasks. You can easily monitor what your team is working on without being invasive. Monitask also generates reports that give you a breakdown of time spent on different projects.

Integrations include Trello, Asana, Basecamp, Jira, ClickUp, Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoho, Monday.com, and Google Drive.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Real-time tracking available
  • Easy to onboard your team
  • Detailed reporting options

Cons:

  • Limited mobile functionality
  • Lacks offline tracking

Best for automatic time mapping

  • 7-day free trial
  • From $8/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.8/5

Insightful is a workforce analytics and productivity management software designed to improve employee efficiency in remote, hybrid, and in-office settings.

Why I picked Insightful: It offers real-time employee monitoring combined with automatic time mapping and attendance tracking to minimize human error and ensure efficient use of work hours. These capabilities provide actionable insights, allowing you to better allocate resources and manage projects. For example, the software's ability to highlight productivity trends and detect employee burnout supports a healthier work-life balance.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include time tracking, activity monitoring, screen monitoring, location insights, insider threat detection, client billing, capacity planning, project budgeting, scheduling, and PTO management.

Integrations include Asana, Azure DevOps, BambooHR, Basecamp, Bitbucket, ClickUp, GitHub, GitLab, Jira, Microsoft Entra ID, Namely, Okta, Trello, Workday, and Zenefits.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Can help identify and prevent employee burnout
  • Tracks screen and computer activities
  • Customizable dashboards

Cons:

  • Lacks features suitable for manual labor industries
  • Lacks a mobile app, limiting on-the-go usability

Best for customizable reports

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $3.99/user/month + $19/month base fee
Visit Website
Rating: 4.8/5

Buddy Punch is an employee time clock software and app that helps businesses simplify employee scheduling, time tracking, and payroll. It offers features such as PTO tracking, automatic payroll integration, and customizable reporting.

Why I picked Buddy Punch: Buddy Punch’s strong reporting capabilities help to set it apart from other scheduling software. Additionally, the software’s ability to create customizable reports makes it an excellent choice for businesses that need detailed insights into employee hours, overtime, and payroll data. This feature is particularly useful for companies that require specific data for compliance, auditing, or performance tracking.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include customizable reports, GPS tracking, real-time monitoring of punch clock changes, quick timesheet approval, automated payroll, and detailed payroll and timesheet reports. 

Integrations include QuickBooks, Paychex, Workday, ADP, Gusto, Xero, Zapier, Google SSO, Okta, and OneLogin.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Real-time monitoring
  • GPS tracking
  • Customizable reports

Cons:

  • Basic mobile app
  • No offline mode

Best for flexible time tracking

  • 30-day free trial + free plan available
  • From $5/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 3.8/5

TimeTrex is a comprehensive workforce management solution that offers a wide range of tools to help businesses streamline their time and attendance processes. 

Why I picked TimeTrex: One of the key reasons TimeTrex stands out is its flexibility in time tracking. Employees can clock in and out using various methods, including web browsers, mobile apps, and even biometric devices, making it highly adaptable to different work environments. The software also supports detailed tracking of work hours, breaks, and overtime, ensuring accurate time records. Additionally, TimeTrex’s automation of overtime calculations and time-off accruals minimizes errors and saves valuable time for HR departments.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include automatic job costing, customizable user permissions, geofencing for mobile workers, multi-language support, compliance management, employee self-service, attendance policy enforcement, and real-time reporting.

Integrations include QuickBooks, ADP, Sage, Paychex, Xero, Microsoft Excel, Google Calendar, PayPal, Slack, and SAP.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Comprehensive time tracking abilities
  • Integrated payroll and HR management
  • Advanced scheduling tools include shift planning and time-off management

Cons:

  • Setting up the software can be difficult
  • User interface looks outdated

Best for unlimited free users

  • 7-day free trial + free download available
  • From $5.49/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.5/5

Clockify is a free time tracking software that offers features for timekeeping, reporting, planning, budgeting, attendance, and payroll. It caters to businesses of all sizes with a focus on enhancing productivity and accuracy in time management.

Why I picked Clockify: Clockify’s flexibility and extensive feature set make it suitable for various business needs. When compared to other tools, its strong project management capabilities and unlimited tracking stand out the most. Additionally, its intuitive user interface simplifies time tracking for employees across various projects and tasks, making it a top contender for effective time management.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include timekeeping through a timer, timesheet, or kiosk, detailed reporting, resource planning, budgeting, attendance tracking, and payroll calculation. It also includes features like time off, invoicing, and mobile access.

Integrations include QuickBooks, Trello, Asana, Jira, Slack, Google Calendar, Microsoft Teams, Zapier, GitHub, and monday.com.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Multi-platform availability
  • Comprehensive time tracking features
  • Unlimited free users

Cons:

  • Basic mobile app
  • Limited offline capabilities

Best for free time tracking with face recognition

  • Freemium plan available
  • From $2.52/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.6/5

Jibble is a free time tracking software that includes employee timesheets, time clock functionalities, and attendance tracking. It offers advanced features like facial recognition and GPS tracking for accurate and secure monitoring.

Why I picked Jibble: Jibble is a top choice for employee time clock software due to its advanced features, including biometric facial recognition for accurate time tracking and GPS-based location tagging. Additionally, Jibble’s user-friendly interface and mobile app support make it accessible and convenient for teams of all sizes. All in all, the software combines essential time tracking functionalities with advanced security features at no cost.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include face recognition attendance, GPS tracking, employee vacation tracking, payroll hours tracking, and project time tracking. 

Integrations include Xero, QuickBooks Online, Deel, Zapier, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Calendar, Trello, Asana, and monday.com.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • GPS tracking
  • Advanced face recognition
  • Free for unlimited users

Cons:

  • Occasional syncing issues
  • Interface can be complex

Best for all-in-one HR automation

  • Free plan available (up to 4 employees)
  • From $2/employee/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.1/5

WebHR is a cloud-based HR software. It provides an advanced solution for HR processes such as recruitment, onboarding, payroll, time and attendance, leaves, and performance.

Why I picked WebHR: WebHR is an all-in-one HR software with next-level automation capabilities, which make it stand out from other employee time clock software. The software’s ability to cover everything from 'hire' to 'retire' ensures that it can handle all HR needs in one platform. Its combination of time tracking, payroll, and HR functions makes it a standout choice for businesses needing an advanced solution.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include modules for scheduling, time and attendance, onboarding/off-boarding, and document management. 

Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, ADP, Paychex, Gusto, BambooHR, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, and Zapier.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Employee self-service portal
  • AI-powered insights
  • Global compliance

Cons:

  • Requires internet access
  • Learning curve for new users

Best for GPS and face recognition

  • Free trial + free plan available
  • From $4/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 3.6/5

ClockInEasy is a time clock software that simplifies employee time tracking with GPS location and face recognition. It ensures secure, accurate, and detailed time tracking, eliminating time theft and buddy punching.

Why I picked ClockInEasy: ClockInEasy comes with advanced GPS and face recognition features, which stand out in the time clock software market. These features provide a high level of security and accuracy ideal for businesses needing precise time tracking. The software’s focus on eliminating messy spreadsheets and manual errors makes it a top choice for businesses seeking accurate time management.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include GPS location tracking, face recognition, and instant payroll reports. The software allows employees to clock in from any device, provides real-time job site attendance tracking, and generates detailed payroll reports with one click.

Integrations include QuickBooks, ADP, Gusto, Paychex, Xero, Sage, BambooHR, Zapier, Google Calendar, and Microsoft Outlook.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Instant payroll reports
  • Face recognition
  • GPS location tracking

Cons:

  • Basic reporting capabilities
  • Limited advanced features

Best for multiple clock-in methods

  • Free plan + free download available
  • From $39/user/month

Open Time Clock is a powerful and easy-to-use online time clock software designed for businesses of all sizes. It offers various ways for employees to clock in, enhancing both security and operational efficiency.

Why I picked Open Time Clock: Open Time Clock’s versatility in clock-in methods sets it apart from other employee time clock software. The ability to use facial recognition, QR codes, RFID/NFC scanners, and GPS tracking makes it highly adaptable to different business needs. This flexibility ensures that businesses can choose the most secure and efficient method for their operations.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include multiple clock-in methods such as facial recognition, QR code scanning, and GPS tracking. It also offers comprehensive management tools for employee tracking, scheduling, payroll, and fraud detection. 

Integrations include QuickBooks, ADP, Paychex, Gusto, Xero, BambooHR, Zenefits, TSheets, Deputy, and Square.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • GPS tracking
  • Comprehensive reporting
  • Multiple clock-in methods

Cons:

  • Interface can feel outdated
  • Limited customization options

Other Employee Time Clock Software

Below is a list of additional employee time clock software that I shortlisted. While they didn’t make the top 10, they’re still valuable and worth further research.

  1. Vericlock

    For real-time labor cost monitoring

  2. OnTheClock

    For small business time tracking

  3. Lathem

    For remote team management

  4. edays

    For global absence management

  5. Time Clock Wizard

    For affordable time tracking

  6. Rhumbix

    For construction timekeeping and payroll

  7. Paylocity

    For tracking time with geofencing

  8. BambooHR

    For HR data management

  9. Rippling

    For an all-in-one HR platform

  10. BrightHR

    For HR support services

  11. Connecteam

    For mobile workforce management

  12. ActivTrak

    For employee productivity tracking

  13. Corfix

    For construction project management

  14. ADP

    For payroll integration

  15. UKG

    For workforce management solutions

If you still haven't found what you're looking for here, check out these other related tools that we've tested and evaluated:

Employee Time Clock Software Selection Criteria

The criteria for choosing an employee time clock software should directly address buyer needs and common pain points, ensuring that the software serves its intended purpose effectively. As an expert who has personally tried and researched these tools, here are the requirements I use when evaluating software:

Core Functionality: 25% of total weighting score

  • Accurate time tracking
  • Employee scheduling
  • Reporting and analytics
  • Integration with payroll systems
  • Compliance with labor laws

Additional Standout Features: 25% of total weighting score

  • Mobile app accessibility
  • Biometric time tracking
  • Geofencing capabilities
  • Customizable reporting
  • Integration with other HR tools

Usability: 10% of total weighting score

  • Intuitive user interface
  • Drag-and-drop scheduling
  • Easy navigation
  • Customizable dashboards
  • Minimal learning curve

Onboarding: 10% of total weighting score

  • Availability of training videos
  • Interactive product tours
  • Chatbots for instant help
  • Webinars for in-depth training
  • Pre-built templates for quick setup

Customer Support: 10% of total weighting score

  • 24/7 customer support availability
  • Multiple support channels (phone, email, chat)
  • Knowledge base and FAQs
  • Dedicated account managers
  • Quick response times

Value For Money: 10% of total weighting score

  • Competitive pricing
  • Transparent pricing models
  • Free trial or demo availability
  • Flexible subscription plans
  • Cost-benefit analysis

Customer Reviews: 10% of total weighting score

  • Overall satisfaction ratings
  • Feedback on ease of use
  • Comments on customer support
  • Reviews on feature effectiveness
  • Testimonials on ROI and value

Here are some trends I’ve noticed for employee time clock software, plus what they might mean for the future. I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs to tease out the most important insights. 

  • Biometric Authentication: Biometric authentication is gaining traction, as it enhances security by using unique biological traits. This reduces the risk of time theft.
  • Mobile Integration: Mobile integration allows employees to clock in and out via smartphones. This trend supports remote work and flexible schedules and also simplifies time tracking for field workers.
  • AI-Powered Analytics: AI-powered analytics provide insights into workforce patterns. This helps in optimizing schedules and improving productivity and also aids in identifying potential issues before they escalate.
  • Cloud-Based Solutions: Cloud-based solutions offer real-time data access from anywhere. This is vital for businesses with multiple locations. It also ensures data is securely stored and easily retrievable.
  • Geofencing: Geofencing technology ensures employees clock in only when they are at the designated location. This prevents fraudulent clock-ins and is particularly useful for businesses with multiple job sites.

As technology advances, employee time clock software continues to evolve, offering more sophisticated features. These trends not only enhance accuracy and security but also streamline workforce management, making it easier for businesses to adapt to flexible and remote working arrangements. 

What is Employee Time Clock Software?

Employee time clock software is a tool that helps businesses track and manage employee work hours. It’s commonly used by HR departments, managers, and employees to ensure accurate timekeeping, payroll processing, and compliance with labor laws.

The software typically includes components such as time tracking, attendance monitoring, and reporting features. It may also integrate with payroll systems, allowing for smooth data transfer and reducing manual entry errors.

Features of Employee Time Clock Software

Choosing the right employee time clock app can significantly impact the accuracy of payroll, compliance with labor laws, and overall operational efficiency. Here are some of the most important features to look for when shopping for an employee time clock software:

  • Accurate Time Tracking: Accurate time tracking ensures that employees' work hours are recorded precisely, reducing errors in payroll and preventing time theft.
  • Biometric Authentication: Biometric systems, such as fingerprint scanning or facial recognition, provide a secure and accurate method for employees to clock in and out, eliminating buddy punching and time fraud.
  • Mobile Accessibility: Mobile capability allows employees to clock in and out using their mobile devices, making it easier to track time for remote or field workers.
  • Payroll Integration: Integration with payroll systems automates the transfer of time data, reducing manual entry errors and streamlining the payroll process.
  • User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface ensures that employees can quickly learn and use the system, minimizing training time and increasing adoption rates.
  • Reporting and Analytics: Advanced reporting and analytics features provide insights into employee attendance, overtime, and productivity, helping managers make informed decisions.
  • Customizable Settings: Customization options allow businesses to tailor the software to their specific needs, including setting rules for overtime, breaks, and time-off requests.
  • Geofencing and GPS Tracking: Geofencing and GPS tracking ensure that employees are clocking in from approved locations, which is particularly useful for businesses with mobile or remote workforces.
  • Compliance Management: Compliance features help businesses adhere to labor laws and regulations by automatically calculating overtime, breaks, and other labor-related rules.
  • Real-Time Notifications: Real-time notifications alert managers to issues such as missed punches, late arrivals, or overtime, enabling prompt action to address any discrepancies.

Selecting the right employee time clock software involves considering features that enhance accuracy, security, and ease of use. By focusing on these key features, businesses can improve their time-tracking processes, ensure compliance, and boost overall productivity.

Benefits of Employee Time Clock Software

Employee time clock software offers a range of advantages for both users and organizations, streamlining time management and enhancing productivity. Below are some additional primary benefits you may experience while using an employee time clock software.

  • Accurate Time Tracking: The software ensures precise recording of employee work hours, reducing errors and discrepancies in payroll processing.
  • Increased Productivity: By automating time tracking, employees can focus more on their tasks, leading to higher efficiency and output.
  • Enhanced Compliance: The software helps organizations adhere to labor laws and regulations by maintaining accurate records of work hours and overtime.
  • Cost Savings: Automated time tracking reduces the need for manual entry and administrative tasks, saving time and reducing labor costs.
  • Improved Employee Accountability: The software provides transparency in work hours, encouraging employees to adhere to their schedules and improving overall accountability.

Investing in an employee time clock software can significantly benefit organizations by improving accuracy, productivity, compliance, cost-efficiency, and accountability. These advantages make it a valuable tool for businesses looking to optimize their workforce management.

Costs & Pricing of Employee Time Clock Software

Selecting the right employee time clock software can be important for effective workforce management. There are multiple plans available, each catering to different business needs and budgets. 

Here’s a breakdown of typical plan options and their pricing to help you make an informed decision.

Plan Comparison Table for Employee Time Clock Software

Plan TypeAverage PriceCommon Features
Free Plan$0Basic time tracking, limited users, and mobile app
Basic Plan$10/user/monthTime tracking, employee scheduling, and reports
Standard Plan$20/user/monthAll Basic features, advanced scheduling, GPS tracking, and integrations
Premium Plan$30/user/monthAll Standard features, PTO management, and biometric verification
Enterprise PlanCustom PricingAll Premium features, custom integrations, and dedicated support
A breakdown of plan types, costs, and features for employee time clock software.

When choosing a plan, consider the size of your team and the specific features you need. By comparing different options, businesses can find a time clock software that meets their budgetary constraints while enhancing workforce management and productivity.

Employee Time Clock Software FAQs

Here are answers to frequently asked questions I’ve received about employee time clock software.

How can employee time clock software integrate with payroll systems?

Employee time clock software can integrate with payroll systems through APIs or built-in connectors. This integration allows the automatic transfer of time and attendance data to the payroll system, reducing manual entry errors and ensuring accurate payroll processing. Some software solutions offer pre-built integrations with popular payroll systems, while others may require custom development.

What are the compliance considerations for using an employee time clock software?

Compliance considerations include adhering to labor laws and regulations regarding time tracking, overtime, and breaks. The software should support accurate record-keeping and reporting to meet legal requirements. Additionally, it should offer features like audit trails and secure data storage to protect employee information and ensure compliance with data privacy laws.

Can employee time clock software handle multiple locations and remote workers?

Yes, many employee time clock software solutions are designed to handle multiple locations and remote workers. They often provide mobile apps or web-based portals that allow employees to clock in and out from anywhere. GPS tracking and geofencing features can ensure that employees are clocking in from authorized locations.

How does employee time clock software manage shift scheduling and changes?

Employee time clock software typically includes shift scheduling features that allow managers to create, modify, and assign shifts easily. Employees can view their schedules, request changes, and swap shifts through the software. Notifications and alerts can be set up to inform employees of schedule changes in real time.

What are the data security measures in employee time clock software?

Data security measures in employee time clock software include encryption of data in transit and at rest, secure user authentication, and role-based access controls. Regular security audits and compliance with industry standards such as GDPR or CCPA are also important to ensure the protection of sensitive employee information.

What support and training options are available for employee time clock software?

Support and training options vary by provider but often include online resources such as user guides, video tutorials, and FAQs. Many providers also offer live support through phone, email, or chat. Some may provide on-site training or webinars to help organizations get the most out of their software.

How can employee time clock software be customized to fit specific business needs?

Customization options in employee time clock software can include configurable settings for time-tracking rules, overtime calculations, and reporting formats. Some software solutions offer custom development services to create features tailored to specific business requirements. Additionally, many platforms allow for the integration of third-party tools and applications to extend functionality.

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Faye Wai
By Faye Wai

Faye Wai is a HR Technology Analyst and contributor to People Managing People, with a background in branding, public relations, and content marketing. She has vet vendors as an end-user in both consultancy and in-house capacities, providing her with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the people operations sector.