We often take it for granted, but the iPhone’s Calendar app is a genuinely useful tool: clean, efficient, and perfectly integrated within the entire Apple ecosystem. Still, we might prefer an option that’s more complete, customizable, visually appealing, or even collaborative—something that better fits our needs or preferences. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best alternatives to Calendar.
Google Calendar: Ideal if we use multiple devices
One of the most well-known and versatile options. Google Calendar works great on the iPhone, but also on Android, PC, or any browser. Its interface is clean, and it allows us to create different calendars for school, work, or family plans. Plus, we can easily share them with others.
While the customization options are somewhat limited, its compatibility with other Google apps makes it incredibly practical if we already use Gmail or Drive daily. And the best part: it’s completely free.
Microsoft Outlook: If we already use Office at home
Although we usually associate Outlook with professional environments, its calendar can be a very useful tool, especially if we already use Microsoft 365. We can integrate our personal email and see events that arrive by mail directly in the calendar, without having to add them manually.
The app is free and has a somewhat more sober design, but it’s highly functional. And if we already use Excel or Word, it integrates seamlessly with the entire Microsoft suite.
BusyCal: For those who want to customize everything
BusyCal is probably the most customizable option. We can create filters, change colors, add charts, or quickly search for past events. It has a slightly more traditional look, but it’s very powerful.
Also, it’s a one-time purchase rather than a subscription, which is always a plus if we plan to use it long term.
Fantastical: The most intuitive one
Fantastical has something unique: we can type a phrase like “Doctor Tuesday at 10” and it creates the event automatically. Its design is modern, clean, and a real pleasure to use.
That said, many of its most interesting features—like shared calendars or task management—are only available in the Premium version, which requires a subscription. Still, for those seeking a smooth experience, it’s one of the most complete.
Calendars: To combine tasks and events in one place
Calendars, by Readdle, has carved out a spot among the most comprehensive apps. It combines calendar and task manager, and like Fantastical, lets us create events using natural language. It also syncs with iCloud and Google Calendar, so we don’t have to start from scratch.
The free version covers most daily needs. But if we want full access—like recurring tasks or multiple reminders—there’s an affordable yearly subscription.
Timepage: The most visually beautiful
If we’re looking for a stylish app, this is the one. Timepage, developed by Moleskine, presents the calendar as an elegant timeline with soft colors and visual details that help us spot busy days at a glance.
It doesn’t offer many advanced features, but it’s perfect if we’re guided by aesthetics and just want a simple, beautiful, and easy experience.
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