Harvest vs Kimai
Comprehensive comparison for 2026: features, pricing, and expert recommendations
By Shyft Research TeamUpdated Feb 24, 2026
TL;DR
- Both tools is our recommended choice for most users
- Compare ratings, features, and pricing below
- See detailed pricing comparison below
- Pick Harvest for invoicing and reporting needs.
Harvest Rating
N/A
Kimai Rating
N/A
Harvest Price
$12/mo
Kimai Price
unknown
When comparing Harvest and Kimai, the choice often comes down to specific needs around invoicing, reporting, and data sovereignty. Harvest is a well-established tool with strong invoicing and reporting features, making it ideal for teams that need detailed project tracking and billing. Kimai, on the other hand, is an open-source solution that offers EU data hosting, making it a suitable choice for teams prioritizing data sovereignty and EU compliance.
Quick Verdict
Harvest is better for teams needing invoicing and reporting. Kimai is better for EU-based teams needing data sovereignty.
Choose Harvest
Harvest offers robust invoicing and reporting features. It is ideal for teams needing detailed project tracking and billing.
Pick Harvest for invoicing and reporting needs.
OR
Choose Kimai
Kimai is a solid open-source option with EU data hosting. It suits teams prioritizing data sovereignty and EU compliance.
Pick Kimai for EU-based teams needing data sovereignty.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Harvest
Kimai
Category
productivity
productivity
Rating
No rating
No rating
Starting Price
$12/mo
unknown
Free Tier
What it Does
Time tracking and invoicing for teams and freelancers
Effortless Time Tracking for Teams
Frequently Asked Questions
For teams that need robust invoicing and reporting features, Harvest is the better choice. However, if your team is based in the EU and data sovereignty is a priority, Kimai offers a solid alternative. Both tools have their strengths, but the decision ultimately depends on your specific requirements.
Our Expert Verdict
“Harvest is better for teams needing invoicing and reporting. Kimai is better for EU-based teams needing data sovereignty.”
Pros
- • Harvest: Established solution
- • Kimai: Established solution
Recommendation: We recommend harvest for most use cases.
Verdict: Harvest vs Kimai
Winner: harvest
Harvest is better for teams needing invoicing and reporting. Kimai is better for EU-based teams needing data sovereignty.
Common Questions: Harvest vs Kimai
Both Harvest and Kimai are strong productivity tools. Harvest and Kimai. The best choice depends on your team size, budget, and specific feature requirements. Both offer ways to try before you buy.