ActivityWatch - Open-Source Time Tracker
ActivityWatch is a powerful, free, and open-source application designed to automatically track how you spend time on your devices. It offers a privacy-first approach by storing all data locally, ensuring that your information never leaves your device. Cross-platform compatibility allows it to run seamlessly on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, making it a versatile tool for diverse users.
Key Features
- Tracking: Automatically monitors active applications and window titles, with additional tracking via customizable watchers.
- Categories: Organizes usage data into categories for a clearer overview of time allocation.
- Browser Extensions: Tracks active tabs in Chrome and Firefox with dedicated extensions.
- Editor Plugins: Monitors coding time through integrations with various editors.
- Privacy: Emphasizes local data storage to protect user privacy.
- Cross-Platform: Supports multiple operating systems for consistent tracking across devices.
Use Cases
ActivityWatch is ideal for individuals and professionals seeking to enhance productivity, manage projects, or understand device usage patterns. It serves:
- Productivity Monitoring: Track time spent on tasks to optimize workflows.
- Project Management: Measure time allocation across different projects.
- Behavioral Insights: Identify trends in device usage or screen habits.
- Quantified Self & Lifelogging: Gain self-knowledge through detailed usage data.
- Research: Useful for studies on attention, productivity, and behavior.
As an alternative to tools like RescueTime and ManicTime, ActivityWatch stands out with its open-source nature and commitment to privacy, appealing to developers, researchers, and privacy-conscious users alike.
