BusyCal
Busy Apps FZE
BusyCal is a powerful, flexible, reliable calendar app for macOS packed with innovative, time-saving features including customizable views, calendar sets, integrated tasks, travel time, smart filters, natural language input, weather, moons, graphics, tags, do not disturb mode and much more. It is compatible with iCloud, Google, Exchange, Office 365, and other CalDAV servers.
User Sentiments
Top Likes
- Highly customizable views and features
- Powerful and flexible for managing busy schedules
- Reliable and feature-rich calendar application
- Excellent syncing capabilities with various services
- Integrated tasks and to-do list
Top Dislikes
- Can be a bit clunky initially
- No Apple Watch app
- Some users reported occasional crashes (older versions)
Popular Comments
Mac App Store User - aewktvIM)uw4^
2023-10-26
It is far superior to Apple Candle! Love the color coding options, the coordinating todo options, the flexibility of the users choice to show this or that list and not show another. Very well planned, maintained, and a long time standard for me on my macbook pro! I've tried others..... none compare. PERFECT SYNCING!!
Mac App Store User - Sister mom
2021-02-20
The user interface in my opinion is so much more beautiful than Fantastical and I love that on the Mac App, the menu bar actually tells you how much time before your next appointment. The only thing I DON'T like is the absence of an Apple Watch app...
MacUpdate User - Nazaire
2024-07-02
Works fine. I bought it mainly because it looks better that Apple's calendar.
Reddit User - Embarrassed-Law-827
2024
BusyCal is very impressive! I've been looking for a few months for an integrated calendar and reminder system...If you're trying to streamline your organization of your life, I highly recommend trying BusyCal. Their iOS app has been fantastic too.
Reddit User - ElGringo_CH
2024
As soon as you want to achieve advanced stuff, Apple Calendar is just not the right way to go. Calendar sets and also the possibility to add meeting (Google meet for example) for new events is just not possible with Apple Calendar.
MacRumors Forum User - rms
2022-11-19
Simply, I like BusyCal and BusyContacts (from same developer). Just more complete and I'm happy to pay an occasional upgrade price. If one doesn't upgrade the existing version continues to work “forever” (but ...)
Detailed Review
BusyCal is a highly-regarded calendar application for macOS, known for its extensive features and customization options. It goes beyond the basic functionalities of Apple Calendar, offering a robust set of tools for managing schedules, events, and tasks. BusyCal is designed for users who need more control and flexibility in their calendar management, offering a wide array of features that cater to both personal and professional needs. It supports integration with various calendar services, including iCloud, Google Calendar, Exchange, and more, ensuring seamless synchronization across devices and platforms.
Standout Features
- Customizable Views: Offers Day, Week, Month, Year, and List views that can be tailored to user preferences, including the number of weeks in Month view and days in Week view.
- Integrated Tasks: Tasks are integrated directly into the calendar, displaying on their due dates and carrying forward until completion. Supports timed to-dos.
- Smart Filters & Calendar Sets: Powerful filtering tools to create calendar sets for quickly toggling multiple calendars and saved searches.
- Natural Language Input: Allows for quick event creation using natural language.
- Info Panel: Non-modal info panel for viewing and editing event details efficiently.
- Travel Time: Option to include travel time in event scheduling.
- Weather & Moon Phases: Displays live weather forecasts and moon phases directly in the calendar.
- Menu Bar App: Provides quick access to the calendar and upcoming events from the Mac menu bar.
- Tags & Graphics: Users can tag events for better organization and add graphics to calendar for visual cues.
Conclusion
BusyCal is an excellent choice for Mac users who need a powerful and customizable calendar application. It offers a significant step up from the default Apple Calendar with its advanced features and flexibility. While it may have a steeper learning curve for users accustomed to simpler calendars, the extensive customization options and time-saving features make it a worthwhile investment for those with complex scheduling needs. The availability of a free version with an option to upgrade allows users to test basic functionality before committing to a purchase or subscription. Users who value customization, feature richness, and cross-platform syncing will find BusyCal to be a valuable productivity tool.
