Basecamp
The refreshingly straightforward project management system that is rock-solid and easy to use.
Overview
Basecamp, developed by 37signals, is a centralized project management and internal communication platform. It consolidates essential workflow tools—including task tracking, messaging, document storage, and scheduling—into a single system designed to reduce scattered communication across multiple separate software tools. Each project created in Basecamp provides built-in tools such as Message Boards for announcements and discussions, To-do Lists for tracking task assignments and due dates, visual Kanban Card Tables for workflow stages, real-time Campfire chat rooms, and integrated project calendars. The platform also includes specialized features like Hill Charts for visual project status tracking, Automatic Check-ins for automated status updates, and centralized Docs & Files organization. Basecamp offers a free tier for individual project management alongside pay-per-user and fixed-rate unlimited user packages for growing teams and enterprises.
Best for: Basecamp is best for teams, businesses, and freelancers seeking a unified project management system that combines messaging, task management, scheduling, and file sharing.
Pros and cons
What works well
- Provides a flat-rate pricing tier with unlimited users and no per-seat fees
- Combines communication, task management, file storage, and calendar tools in one system
- Includes unique progress-tracking features like visual Hill Charts and automated check-ins
Where it falls short
- Free plan is limited to 1 project and 1 GB of file storage
- Pro Unlimited fixed-rate pricing requires annual billing commitment
Pricing
Free
Free
Includes 1 project, 1 GB of storage space, and support for up to 20 users.
Pro
$15/user/month
Includes unlimited projects, 500 GB storage, free guest and client access, and a 30-day free trial.
Pro Unlimited
$299/month
Billed annually for unlimited users, unlimited projects, 5 TB storage, Admin Pro Pack, Timesheets, and priority 24/7 support.
User reviews
Frequently asked questions
Is there a free version of Basecamp?
Yes, Basecamp offers a free plan that allows you to manage 1 project forever with up to 20 users and 1 GB of storage.
How long are the free trial periods for paid plans?
Basecamp provides a 30-day free trial for the Pro plan and an extended 60-day free trial for the Pro Unlimited plan.
Are guests and clients free on the Pro plan?
Yes, on the Pro plan you can invite guests and clients for free; billing only applies to company employees.
Does Basecamp offer discounts for non-profits or educational institutions?
Yes, Basecamp offers a 10% discount for registered 501(c)(3) non-profits and is 100% free for K-12, homeschoolers, and universities for classroom use.
Can I cancel my Basecamp subscription at any time?
Yes, cancellation is completely self-serve with no long-term contracts. If you cancel an annual plan, the remaining balance is prorated back to your credit card.
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