01/ ProjectLibre
Best for: Opening and editing Microsoft Project (.mpp) plans.
Open source; reads MPP files through independently developed import code.
Runs on: Windows, macOS, Linux
Visit ProjectLibreOffice & Productivity · Project planning
Free alternatives to Microsoft Project
Microsoft Project by Microsoft: Gantt-chart project planning, scheduling and resource management. Pricing: subscription. Here are 2 free options that cover the same job.
| Alternative | Type | Platforms | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
ProjectLibreOpen source; reads MPP files through independently developed import code. | Compatible | Windows, macOS, Linux | Opening and editing Microsoft Project (.mpp) plans | Get it |
OpenProject | Open source | Web, Self-hosted | Team project management with Gantt charts | Get it |
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The alternatives in detail
02/ OpenProject
Best for: Team project management with Gantt charts.
Runs on: Web, Self-hosted
Visit OpenProjectAbout “Compatible” tools: An independent, legal re-implementation that opens the same files or runs the same software. Not a cracked copy.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a free alternative to Microsoft Project?
Yes. ProjectLibre is a strong free option for opening and editing microsoft project (.mpp) plans. Other choices include OpenProject.
Which Microsoft Project alternative is open source?
ProjectLibre, OpenProject are open source.
Are compatible (reverse-engineered) alternatives legal?
Yes. Tools marked Compatible are independent re-implementations built to open the same files or run the same software. They do not contain the original program's code. They are not cracked or pirated copies, which we never recommend.