Comparison
BillNotch vs Timely: invoicing, Linux and flat pricing
Timely is the closest tool to BillNotch: both track automatically and both create invoices. BillNotch keeps the part Timely got right — tracking that happens on its own — and changes the rest. The differences show up in the details: a built-in check for unbilled time, standalone PDF invoicing without a QuickBooks subscription, Linux support, and flat pricing as you add people.
| Feature | BillNotch | Timely |
|---|---|---|
Automatic background tracking records the active window — no timer to start | Yes | Yes |
Categorizes into projects automatically keyword rules + optional AI | Yes | YesAI draft you review |
Built-in PDF invoicing | Yes | Yessyncs with QuickBooks |
Revenue Leak Finder flags billable time you never invoiced | Yes | No |
Linux desktop app | Yes | No |
Windows & macOS apps | Yes | Yes |
Keep window titles on-device per-device privacy control | Yes | Not applicable |
Flat pricing as you add people no jump to a higher per-seat tier | YesPro $9, Team $12/seat | Noscales to $16–$22/user |
Timely details are accurate to the best of our knowledge as of June 2026. Check timely.com for current pricing and features.
When BillNotch fits better
You want low flat pricing as your team grows, a Revenue Leak Finder for unbilled time, standalone PDF invoices with no QuickBooks subscription, or Linux.
When Timely might fit better
You want Timely’s deeper team capacity-planning and reporting, its mobile apps, or you’re already standardized on QuickBooks.
Frequently asked questions
BillNotch or Timely — which suits a freelancer better?
BillNotch, on price and on billing. Both record your work without a timer, but BillNotch adds a Revenue Leak Finder for unbilled time, standalone PDF invoicing without a QuickBooks subscription, a native Linux app, and flat pricing ($9/mo Pro, $12/seat/mo Team) instead of Timely’s $16–$22/user tiers.
How is BillNotch different from Timely if both track automatically?
Four details: BillNotch flags billable time that never made it onto an invoice, generates PDF invoices on its own, runs on Linux, and stays at a flat per-seat price as you add people.
Does Timely run on Linux?
No — Timely’s memory tracker covers Windows and macOS. BillNotch ships a native desktop tracker for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Try automatic time tracking free.
14 days of full access, no credit card. Compare plans and pricing, or see BillNotch for freelancers.
Not sure switching is worth it? The Revenue Leak Calculator estimates what your untracked hours cost — free, no signup.
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