Back to Blogs

18 Best Remote Work Productivity Tools to Use in 2026

Written by
Aditya Nagpal
9
min read
Published on
February 19, 2026
Workplace and Legal Compliance
Team Productivity Tools
TL;DR
  • In 2026, remote work productivity tools spanning communication, project management, and automation keep distributed teams connected, collaborative, and highly productive regardless of their physical location.
  • Communication and collaboration platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet, Figma, Miro, and Loom allow remote teams to message, video conference, co-design, and share async video updates seamlessly.
  • Project management tools such as Asana, ClickUp, Notion, Jira, Trello, and Linear enable remote teams to efficiently organize tasks, track progress, and optimize workflows across diverse industries and team sizes.
  • Automation solutions like Zapier and Motion empower remote teams to integrate thousands of apps, automate repetitive processes, and accelerate async audio collaboration, ultimately boosting overall productivity.

Ready to lead your distributed team with greater insight and assurance? Let's connect

Discover how Wisemonk creates impactful and reliable content.

Remote work in 2026 is the new normal.
But it's not without its challenges.

Endless video calls.
Countless tools and tabs. Distractions at every turn.

We've all been there, trying to make remote work actually work.

That's where the right productivity tools come in. They keep your team connected, collaborative, and crushing their goals, no matter where they are.

In this guide, we've curated the 18 best remote work tools to skyrocket your team's efficiency in 2026. We'll dive into the pricing, pros and cons, and real user reviews from G2 for each tool. Whether you're a small startup or a large enterprise, we've got you covered with the best options for every budget and team size.

What are the essential productivity tools for remote teams in 2026?[toc=Team Productivity Tools]

Remote work productivity tools are essential for keeping distributed teams connected, collaborative, and efficient.

These tools support every layer of remote operations, from daily team collaboration and project tracking to time tracking and security management, each designed to address the unique challenges of working remotely.

Communication Tools

Communication tools are vital for keeping remote teams connected and ensuring clear, effective communication across various channels. These tools facilitate real-time messaging, video conferencing, and asynchronous communication, helping remote teams stay aligned and engaged no matter where they are.

  1. Slack
  2. Microsoft Teams
  3. Zoom
  4. Google Meet

Project Management Tools

Project management tools are essential for remote teams to stay organized, collaborate effectively, and ensure projects are completed on time. These tools provide a centralized platform for teams to plan, execute, and track their work, keeping everyone aligned and accountable.

  1. Asana
  2. ClickUp
  3. Jira
  4. Linear
  5. Notion
  6. Trello

Collaboration Tools

Productivity tools focused on collaboration form the backbone of successful distributed teams, allowing seamless communication and real-time co-working across time zones. These tools help remote teams stay connected, foster teamwork, and ensure everyone is working towards common goals.

  1. Zapier 
  2. Motion
  3. Figma
  4. Miro
  5. Loom

Time Tracking Tools

Time tracking tools help monitor productivity, manage client billing accurately, and prevent revenue leakage across projects, and maintain a healthy work-life balance, making them a critical component of any distributed team's toolkit. Effective time tracking helps remote workers stay accountable, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions about their work.

  1. Toggl
  2. Harvest
  3. Clockify

Now, let's dive deeper into each of these essential categories of remote work productivity tools and explore the top options available in 2026.

The tools matter. But how you manage your remote team matters even more. If you're looking beyond software and into leadership systems, don’t miss our in-depth guide on "Remote Team Management: Best Practices".

1. Slack

Slack, a leading productivity tool for remote teams, allows distributed workforces to communicate and collaborate in real-time, making it a must-have for effective project management. It provides one platform for messaging, file collaboration, and app integrations.

Key Features

  • Channels: Organize team communication based on projects, topics, or departments
  • Direct Messaging: Facilitate one-on-one or small group conversations
  • Video and Voice Calls: Run video calls and external meetings
  • File Sharing: Share and collaborate on documents, images, and videos
  • Integrations: Connect with a wide range of third-party apps and services

Pricing

  • Free plan available with limited features
  • Pro plan: $7.25 per user per month (billed annually)
  • Business+ plan: $12.50 per user per month (billed annually)
  • Enterprise Grid plan: Custom pricing for large organizations

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Slack
Pros Cons
Intuitive and user-friendly interface Can be distracting with constant notifications
Seamless integration with a wide range of tools Message and file organization can become cluttered over time
Robust search functionality for finding messages and files Video and audio call quality may vary depending on internet connection
Customizable alerts and notifications
Mobile apps for on-the-go communication

Best For: Slack is ideal for distributed teams that need the right tools to stay on the same page that rely on real-time communication, collaboration, and integration with various tools.

What do Slack users say?

G2 Reviews

"What I like best about Slack is how fast communication moves. In a remote sales job like Tribe Wellness, speed matters because leads, objections, and updates happen all day, and I can get answers from managers or teammates immediately instead of waiting on email. It also keeps everything organized in channels, so I can quickly find scripts, product info, and past conversations to improve my calls."
-Tyler W., Senior Sales Representative, Mid-Market, Rated 5/5 stars in G2

2. Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is a powerful productivity tool for remote teams, providing comprehensive communication and collaboration features that integrate seamlessly with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. It provides a centralized hub for messaging, video conferencing, file sharing, and more.

Key Features

  • Teams and Channels: Create dedicated spaces for projects, departments, or topics
  • Chat and Messaging: Combines chat for one-on-one and group conversations
  • Video and Audio Conferencing: Host virtual meetings with screen sharing and recording
  • File Sharing and Collaboration: Work together on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations
  • Integration with Microsoft 365: Seamlessly connect with apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

Pricing

  • Microsoft Teams is included with Microsoft 365 Business Basic, Business Standard, and Enterprise plans
  • Microsoft 365 Business Basic: $5 per user per month
  • Microsoft 365 Business Standard: $12.50 per user per month
  • Microsoft 365 Enterprise Plans: Pricing varies based on the specific plan

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Microsoft Teams
Pros Cons
Seamless integration with Microsoft 365 apps Steeper learning curve compared to some other tools
Robust security features for maintaining security and compliance Less intuitive interface compared to competitors like Slack
Extensive customization options for teams and channels Heavily reliant on the Microsoft ecosystem
Powerful video conferencing capabilities
Large file storage capacity

Best For: Microsoft Teams is best suited for organizations that already use Microsoft 365 apps and want a unified communication and collaboration platform.

What do Microsoft Teams users say?

G2 Reviews

"What I like most about Microsoft Teams is that it offers an all-in-one collaboration environment. It brings together chat, video meetings, file sharing, and task collaboration in a single platform, which helps keep communication seamless, organized, and easy to follow. I also appreciate how well it integrates with other Microsoft 365 tools such as Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft OneDrive, and Microsoft SharePoint, making scheduling and document management much more efficient."
-ARCHIT S., System ops, Mid-Market, Rated 5/5 stars in G2

3. Zoom

Zoom is a popular video conferencing tool that enables remote teams to conduct virtual meetings, webinars, and collaborative sessions. It offers high-quality video and audio, along with various features to enhance remote communication.

Key Features

  • HD Video and Audio: Enjoy clear and reliable video and audio quality
  • Screen Sharing: Share your screen, applications, or specific files during meetings
  • Virtual Backgrounds: Customize your background or use a virtual one for privacy
  • Breakout Rooms: Split meetings into smaller groups for focused discussions
  • Recording and Transcripts: Record meetings and generate automatic transcripts

Pricing

  • Free plan available with limited features and meeting duration
  • Pro plan: $149.90 per year per license
  • Business plan: $199.90 per year per license (minimum of 10 licenses)
  • Enterprise plan: $240 per year per license (minimum of 50 licenses)

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Zoom
Pros Cons
User-friendly interface and easy to set up Free plan has a 40-minute time limit on group meetings
High-quality video and audio Occasional security and privacy concerns
Robust features for interactive meetings and webinars Limited built-in collaboration features compared to some competitors
Supports large meetings (up to 1,000 participants)
Available on multiple platforms and devices

Best For: Zoom is an excellent choice for remote teams that prioritize video conferencing and need a reliable, feature-rich platform for virtual meetings and webinars.

What do Zoom users say?

G2 Reviews

"I like thats keeps meetings simple as well as very reliable calls connect fast, the video quality is good and clear, and it’s very much easy to jump in and share your screen without any problrms at all"
-Harshul S., Sr tech support, Small-Business, Rated 4/5 stars in G2

4. Google Meet

Google Meet is a video conferencing tool that is part of the Google Workspace suite of apps. It allows remote teams to conduct virtual meetings, presentations, and collaborative sessions seamlessly.

Key Features

  • Secure Video Meetings: Host encrypted video meetings with up to 250 participants
  • Screen Sharing: Share your entire screen, a specific window, or a tab
  • Noise Cancellation: Reduce background noise for clearer audio
  • Live Captions: Enable real-time captions for better accessibility
  • Integration with Google Workspace: Seamlessly connect with Gmail, Google Calendar, and Drive, making scheduling meetings across different calendars simple for distributed teams.

Pricing

  • Google Meet is included with Google Workspace plans
  • Business Starter: $6 per user per month
  • Business Standard: $12 per user per month
  • Business Plus: $18 per user per month
  • Enterprise plans: Pricing varies based on the specific plan

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Google Meet
Pros Cons
Seamless integration with Google Workspace apps Limited features compared to some dedicated video conferencing tools
Easy to use for remote and in person meetings Relies heavily on the Google ecosystem
Secure and encrypted video meetings Some users may experience occasional performance issues
Live captions for improved accessibility
No need to download additional software

Best For: Google Meet is best suited for teams that already use Google Workspace apps and want a simple, integrated video conferencing solution.

What do Google Meet users say?

G2 Reviews

"I uses Google workspace daily for communication, documentation and coordination with development , QA and operation teams, gmail is used for alerts, approvals and internal communication, Google docs for runbooks and process documentation, Google sheets for tracking deployments and incidents and Google drive for storing configuration related documents, Google meet is also used for stand ups , incident calls and review meetings. integration with other tools like Jira also helps streamline workflows. version history in docs is very helpful for tracking changes in runbooks."
-Tanmay G., DevOps Engineer, Mid-Market, Rated 4/5 stars in G2

5. Asana

Asana, a powerful project management tool, enables remote teams to efficiently organize, track, and manage their work, ensuring seamless collaboration and productivity across distributed workforces. It provides a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features to streamline workflows and boost productivity.

Key Features

  • Tasks and Subtasks: Break down projects into clear to do lists and priorities
  • Multiple Views: View projects as lists, boards, calendars, or timelines
  • Assignees and Due Dates: Assign tasks to team members and set due dates
  • Collaboration: Comment on tasks, share files, and communicate with team members
  • Integrations: Connect with a wide range of third-party apps and services

Pricing

  • Basic plan: Free for up to 15 team members
  • Premium plan: $10.99 per user per month (billed annually)
  • Business plan: $24.99 per user per month (billed annually)
  • Enterprise plan: Custom pricing available

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Asana
Pros Cons
Intuitive and user-friendly interface Limited customization options compared to some competitors
Flexible project views and organization options Steeper learning curve for advanced features
Extensive integrations with third-party tools Can become expensive for larger teams
Powerful collaboration and communication features
Automation features to drive maximum efficiency

Best For: Asana is an excellent choice for remote teams of all sizes that need a versatile and user-friendly project management tool to collaborate, organize tasks, and track progress.

What do Asana users say?

G2 Reviews

"I like that I can work in one place and still see everything I need to know. Asana is really transparent and helps me get the work done more efficiently."
-Mirja N., Customer Success Manager, Small-Business, Rated 5/5 stars in G2

6. ClickUp

ClickUp is a comprehensive productivity platform that offers task management, document collaboration, goal tracking, and more in a single, customizable workspace. Its extensive features and integrations make it a versatile tool for remote teams of all sizes and industries.

Key Features

  • Task Management: Create tasks, subtasks, and checklists with assignees and due dates
  • Multiple Views: View tasks as lists, boards, calendars, Gantt charts, or tables
  • Docs and Wikis: Create and collaborate on documents and knowledge bases
  • Goals and Milestones: Set and track goals, milestones, and project progress
  • Automation: Streamline workflows with custom automations and integrations

Pricing

  • Free plan available with limited features
  • Unlimited plan: $5 per user per month
  • Business plan: $9 per user per month
  • Business Plus plan: $19 per user per month
  • Enterprise plan: Custom pricing available

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of ClickUp
Pros Cons
Comprehensive feature set for various use cases Steeper learning curve due to the vast array of features
Highly customizable and adaptable to different workflows Some users may find the interface overwhelming initially
Extensive integrations with third-party tools Limited offline access and mobile app functionality
Powerful automation and reporting features
Free plan with generous features for small teams

Best For: ClickUp is an excellent choice for remote teams that need a versatile, all-in-one productivity platform to manage tasks, collaborate on documents, track goals, and streamline workflows, all within a single, customizable workspace.

What do ClickUp users say?

G2 Reviews

"It is one of the best project management platforms for any company to work on and collaborate with their whole team."
-Mustufa L., Sr. Web Developer & IT Admin, Rated 4/5 stars in G2

7. Jira

Jira, a feature-rich project management and productivity tool, empowers agile remote teams, particularly in software development, to plan, track, and release projects efficiently. It offers a wide range of features for planning, tracking, and releasing software projects, as well as managing tasks and issues.

Key Features

  • Agile Boards: Customize workflows using Scrum, Kanban, or hybrid boards
  • Backlog Management: Prioritize and organize tasks and user stories
  • Sprints and Releases: Plan and track work in sprints and manage product releases
  • Issue and Bug Tracking: Create, assign, and track issues and bugs
  • Reporting and Analytics: Generate reports and gain insights into team performance

Pricing

  • Free plan available for up to 10 users
  • Standard plan: $7.50 per user per month
  • Premium plan: $14.50 per user per month
  • Enterprise plan: Custom pricing available

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Jira
Pros Cons
Highly customizable and adaptable to various workflows Steeper learning curve compared to simpler project management tools
Extensive features for agile project management Can be overwhelming for small teams or simple projects
Powerful reporting and analytics capabilities User interface may feel complex and cluttered
Integrates with a wide range of developer tools
Scalable for large teams and complex projects

Best For: Jira is best suited for software development teams and other organizations that follow agile methodologies and need a feature-rich, customizable project management tool.

What do Jira users say?

G2 Reviews

"Specialized dashboards can be created, which makes it easier to view information in the way I need. Effort can be estimated using story points and QA points, helping with planning and tracking. It also supports handling multiple projects in one place, which is convenient for managing work across teams or initiatives."
-Deepa Sree K., Software Engineer, Telecommunications, Rated 4/5 stars in G2

8. Linear

Linear is a streamlined issue tracking and project management tool designed specifically for software development teams. Its clean, minimalist interface and powerful features help remote engineering teams collaborate efficiently, prioritize tasks, and ship products faster.

Key Features

  • Issue Tracking: Create, assign, and prioritize tasks and bugs with custom fields
  • Keyboard-Driven Interface: Navigate and manage issues quickly using keyboard shortcuts
  • Cycles and Roadmaps: Plan and track work in cycles (sprints) and visualize roadmaps
  • Git and PR Integration: Automatically update issues based on Git commits and pull requests
  • Workflows and Automations: Customize workflows and automate tasks based on triggers

Pricing

  • Linear is free for personal use and open-source projects
  • Team plan: $8 per user per month
  • Organization plan: $20 per user per month

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Linear
Pros Cons
Clean, minimalist, and keyboard-driven interface for efficiency Primarily focused on software development teams
Seamless integration with Git and pull requests Limited customization options compared to some competitors
Intuitive and easy to learn for developers Lack of advanced project management features like Gantt charts
Powerful workflow automation and customization
Free for personal use and open-source projects

Best For: Linear is best suited for remote software development teams that value simplicity, efficiency, and seamless integration with their development workflow, prioritizing speed and collaboration over extensive customization options.

What do Linear users say?

G2 Reviews

"I like how Linear keeps everything focused and intentional. The keyboard shortcuts, smooth workflow, and clear issue tracking make it easy to stay productive without feeling overwhelmed."
-Nikhil J., Backend Developer, Rated 5/5 stars in G2

9. Notion

Notion is a versatile and customizable productivity tool that combines note-taking, task management, and database creation in a single platform. Its flexibility allows remote teams and individuals to create their ideal workspace and streamline their workflows.

Key Features

  • Customizable Workspace: Create a personalized workspace using pages, databases, and templates
  • Note-Taking: Capture ideas, meeting notes, and documentation in a structured way
  • Task Management: Create tasks, set due dates, and assign them to team members
  • Databases: Build custom databases for projects, clients, or resources
  • Collaboration: Share pages and databases with team members for real-time collaboration

Pricing

  • Free plan available with limited features
  • Personal Pro plan: $4 per month
  • Team plan: $8 per user per month
  • Enterprise plan: Custom pricing available

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Notion
Pros Cons
Highly customizable and adaptable to various workflows Steeper learning curve compared to single-purpose tools
All-in-one solution for notes, tasks, and databases Limited offline access and mobile app functionality
Powerful database features for organizing and tracking information Can become complex and overwhelming if not structured properly
Real-time collaboration and sharing features
Extensive template library for quick setup and inspiration

Best For: Notion is best suited for remote teams and individuals who value flexibility and want a single platform to manage their notes, tasks, projects, and databases, tailored to their specific needs and workflows.

What do Notion users say?

G2 Reviews

"I like the collaboration aspect of Notion and the simplicity of its user interface. It's extremely easy to collaborate on pages, share them, create new pages, and structure them properly. We use Notion as a company knowledge hub to save everything regarding our internal processes, and it helps us onboard new team members and store all the information that allows us to operate efficiently every day. Notion provides a more organized space to save information, avoiding the waste of time looking for documents and knowing precisely where to find the needed information. The initial setup was extremely easy for us because we were already familiar with the product."
-Leonardo V., Co-founder & COO, Rated 5/5 stars in G2

10. Trello

Trello is a simple and intuitive project management tool that uses boards, lists, and cards to help remote teams organize and prioritize their work. Its visual approach makes it easy to collaborate and track progress on projects.

Key Features

  • Boards, Lists, and Cards: Organize projects using a visual, Kanban-style layout
  • Checklists and Due Dates: Add checklists to cards and set due dates for tasks
  • Attachments and Comments: Share files and discuss tasks directly on cards
  • Power-Ups: Extend functionality with a wide range of third-party integrations
  • Automation: Streamline workflows with Butler, Trello's built-in automation tool

Pricing

  • Free plan available with limited features
  • Business Class plan: $9.99 per user per month (billed annually)
  • Enterprise plan: $17.50 per user per month (billed annually)

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Trello
Pros Cons
Simple, intuitive, and visually appealing interface Limited advanced project management features compared to some competitors
Flexible and customizable to suit various workflows Lack of built-in reporting and analytics tools
Extensive integrations through Power-Ups Can become cluttered with large projects or teams
Mobile apps for on-the-go access
Easy to learn and adopt for new users

Best For: Trello is best suited for small to medium-sized remote teams that prefer a visual, easy-to-use project management tool for organizing and tracking their work.

What do Trello users say?

G2 Reviews

"Trello is one of the easiest and most effective tools for organizing work visually. Its board-and-card layout feels intuitive and flexible, and it works well for everything from simple task tracking to lightweight project management. It’s fast to set up, easy for teams to adopt, and it keeps workflows clear without adding unnecessary complexity. Features like checklists, labels, due dates, and automations (Butler) help keep projects moving, while integrations with tools like Slack and Google Drive make it even more useful as a central place to manage tasks."
-Rene M., Solution Architect, Outsourcing/Offshoring, Rated 5/5 stars in G2

11. Zapier

Zapier is a powerful automation tool that connects and integrates over 3,000 apps and services, allowing remote teams to automate repetitive tasks and streamline their workflows. Its user-friendly interface and extensive app library make it accessible for users with varying technical skills.

Key Features

  • App Integrations: Connect and integrate over 3,000 apps and services
  • Zaps: Create automated workflows (Zaps) between apps based on triggers and actions
  • Multi-Step Zaps: Build complex workflows with multiple steps and conditions
  • Shared Workspaces: Collaborate with team members on Zaps and manage access permissions
  • Zapier Editor: Customize your Zaps with JavaScript and Python code snippets

Pricing

  • Free plan available with limited features
  • Starter plan: $19.99 per month
  • Professional plan: $49 per month
  • Team plan: $399 per month
  • Company plan: $799 per month

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Zapier
Pros Cons
Extensive library of app integrations for various use cases Some integrations may have limited functionality compared to native apps
User-friendly interface and efficient way to automate workflows Advanced workflows may require additional technical knowledge
Saves time and reduces manual effort by automating repetitive tasks Higher-tier plans can be expensive for small teams or businesses
Enables custom workflow automation without coding expertise
Collaborative features for team management and shared workflows

Best For: Zapier is best suited for remote teams, businesses, and individuals who want to automate their workflows, connect various apps and services, and streamline their processes without the need for extensive coding or technical expertise.

What do Zapier users say?

G2 Reviews

"I really like Zapier's ability to seamlessly connect different apps that typically don't integrate with each other, turning disconnected tools into one cohesive and efficient ecosystem. This capability has streamlined workflows for me by eliminating repetitive manual tasks and allowing automation of lead routing, form submissions, CRM updates, and email notifications."
-Amie L., Core Member, Rated 5/5 stars in G2

12. Motion

Motion is an audio communication and collaboration platform that enables remote teams to share ideas, provide feedback, and collaborate asynchronously using voice messages. Its simple interface, transcription features, and integrations make it an effective tool for remote work and distributed teams.

Key Features

  • Voice Messaging: Record and share voice messages with your team
  • Transcription: Automatically transcribe voice messages into text for easy scanning
  • Threads and Reactions: Organize conversations into threads and react with emojis
  • Integrations: Connect with popular tools like Slack, Asana, and Trello
  • Private and Group Messaging: Send voice messages privately or in group channels

Pricing

  • Free plan available with limited features
  • Pro plan: $9 per user per month
  • Business plan: $19 per user per month

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Motion
Pros Cons
Asynchronous audio communication reduces meetings and saves work hours Some users may prefer face-to-face or video communication
Automatic transcription makes it easy to scan and search messages Limited integrations compared to some competitors
Threaded conversations keep discussions organized and focused Audio quality may vary depending on the user's microphone and environment
Integrations with popular productivity tools
Enhances remote collaboration and facilitates quick feedback loops

Best For: Motion is an excellent choice for remote teams, managers, and professionals who want to communicate and collaborate asynchronously using voice messages, reducing the need for meetings and enhancing productivity in a distributed work environment.

What do Motion users say?

G2 Reviews

"Motion has elevated my productivity to the max. I am am able to enter task for different projects and have an organized and timely calendar to follow. I use motion every single day and it has been instrumental to improving my work flow."
-Sabrina A., Senior Director Curriculum Development, Rated 5/5 stars in G2

13. Figma

Figma is a cloud-based design and prototyping tool that enables remote teams to collaborate on user interface and user experience projects in real-time. Its vector-based editor, version control, and developer handoff features make it a powerful solution for design teams.

Key Features

  • Vector-Based Editor: Create and edit designs using a powerful vector-based tool
  • Real-Time Collaboration: Work on the same file simultaneously with team members
  • Version Control: Track changes, revert to previous versions, and manage file history
  • Components and Styles: Create reusable components and maintain a consistent design system
  • Prototyping and Handoff: Build interactive prototypes and generate code snippets for developers

Pricing

  • Free plan available with limited features
  • Professional plan: $12 per editor per month
  • Organization plan: $45 per editor per month
  • Enterprise plan: Custom pricing available

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Figma
Pros Cons
Real-time collaboration and version control for design teams Limited vector editing capabilities compared to some desktop tools
Easy sharing and feedback collection from stakeholders Some users may experience performance issues with complex files
Comprehensive design system management with components and styles Figma's web-based nature may not be suitable for offline work
Seamless prototyping and developer handoff features

Best For: Figma is an excellent choice for remote design teams, UX/UI designers, and collaborators who need a powerful, cloud-based tool for creating, prototyping, and managing user interface designs in real-time.

What do Figma users say?

G2 Reviews

"What I like best about Figma is its real-time collaboration and ease of use. It allows designers and stakeholders to work together seamlessly in one shared file, which significantly speeds up the design and feedback process. The interface is intuitive, cloud-based access eliminates version control issues, and features like components, auto layout, and design systems make it efficient to maintain consistency across projects."
-Jaya R., graphic deaigner, Rated 5/5 stars in G2

14. Miro

Miro is an online whiteboard and visual collaboration platform that enables remote teams to brainstorm, plan, and visualize ideas together in real-time. Its intuitive interface, templates, and integrations make it a versatile tool for various use cases and industries.

Key Features

  • Infinite Canvas: Create and collaborate on an endless, zoomable canvas
  • Templates and Frameworks: Use pre-built templates for brainstorming, planning, and mapping
  • Real-Time Collaboration: Work on the same board simultaneously with team members
  • Integrations: Connect with a wide range of third-party tools and services
  • Multimedia Support: Add images, videos, documents, and links to your boards

Pricing

  • Free plan available with limited features
  • Team plan: $8 per member per month
  • Business plan: $16 per member per month
  • Enterprise plan: Custom pricing available

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Miro
Pros Cons
Intuitive and user-friendly interface for easy adoption Limited free plan compared to some competitors
Real-time collaboration and commenting features Boards can become cluttered and disorganized if not managed properly
Extensive template library for various use cases and industries Some users may experience performance issues with large boards
Integrations with popular productivity and communication tools

Best For: Miro is best suited for remote teams, designers, and professionals who need a flexible, visual collaboration platform to brainstorm ideas, plan projects, and create mind maps, flowcharts, and diagrams together in real-time.

What do Miro users say?

G2 Reviews

"I also appreciate the real-time collaboration features. Team members can comment, edit, and add notes simultaneously, which improves productivity and reduces long meetings. The integrations with tools like Slack and project management platforms also make workflows smoother."
-Ahmed M., Student in Faculty of science Alex Uni, Rated 5/5 stars in G2

15. Loom

Loom is a video messaging and screen recording tool that allows remote teams to communicate asynchronously through quick, personalized videos. Its easy-to-use interface and sharing capabilities make it an effective tool for collaboration, presentations, and remote work.

Key Features

  • Screen Recording: Record your screen, webcam, or both simultaneously
  • Drawing and Highlighting: Annotate your recordings with drawing and highlighting tools
  • Instant Sharing: Share your videos with a simple link or embed them in other platforms
  • Viewer Insights: Track who watched your videos and for how long
  • Integrations: Connect with popular communication and productivity tools

Pricing

  • Free plan available with limited features
  • Business plan: $8 per creator per month
  • Enterprise plan: Custom pricing available

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Loom
Pros Cons
Simple and intuitive interface for easy recording and sharing Limited video editing capabilities compared to dedicated video editors
Asynchronous communication reduces the need for meetings Some users may prefer real-time communication for certain situations
Viewer insights provide valuable feedback on engagement Free plan has limited recording length and storage
Integrations with popular tools like Slack, Trello, and Gmail
Enhances collaboration and keeps team members easily accessible

Best For: Loom is an excellent choice for remote teams, educators, and professionals who want to communicate and collaborate asynchronously through personalized video messages, presentations, and tutorials.

What do Loom users say?

G2 Reviews

"Loom makes communication extremely simple and effective. Recording quick videos to explain ideas, walkthroughs, or updates saves a lot of time compared to long emails or meetings."
-Ameer A., Salesforce Developer, Rated 4.5/5 stars in G2

16. Toggl

Toggl is a user-friendly time tracking app that helps remote teams and individuals monitor their productivity, billable hours, and project progress. Its intuitive interface and robust features make it easy to track time spent on tasks and analyze work patterns.

Key Features

  • One-Click Time Tracking: Start and stop timers with a single click
  • Customizable Projects and Tasks: Organize time entries by projects and tasks
  • Cross-Platform Sync: Track time seamlessly across web, desktop, and mobile apps
  • Detailed Reports: Analyze time usage, productivity, and project profitability
  • Integrations: Connect with a wide range of project management and productivity tools

Pricing

  • Free plan available with basic features
  • Starter plan: $9 per user per month
  • Premium plan: $18 per user per month
  • Enterprise plan: Custom pricing available

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Toggl
Pros Cons
Simple and intuitive interface for easy time tracking Limited advanced features compared to some competitors
Customizable projects, tasks, and tags for detailed tracking Reporting features may not be as comprehensive as some alternatives
Automated tracking reminders and idle detection Heavily focused on time tracking, lacking other project management features
Integrations with popular productivity tools

Best For: Toggl is best suited for remote teams, freelancers, and individuals who need a simple, yet powerful time tracking solution to monitor productivity, billable hours, and project progress.

What do Toggl users say?

G2 Reviews

"The best thing about Toggl Track is how quick it is to start tracking time. You just hit the timer and get back to work, no complicated setup. I also like how it automatically groups your entries and shows everything clearly in the reports. It actually makes you aware of where your time is going without feeling heavy or confusing. The interface is clean, and it works the same on web and mobile, which makes it easy to keep track of things."
-PRATYUSH A., Student and researcher, Rated 4.5/5 stars in G2

17. Harvest

Harvest is a time tracking and invoicing tool that helps remote teams and freelancers accurately track their time, expenses, and projects. It simplifies the billing process and provides insights into project profitability and team productivity.

Key Features

  • Time Tracking: Track time spent on tasks and projects using timers or manual entry
  • Expense Tracking: Log and categorize expenses for accurate billing
  • Invoicing: Generate and send professional invoices based on time and expenses
  • Project Budgeting: Set budgets for projects and track progress in real-time
  • Reporting: Analyze time usage, project profitability, and team productivity

Pricing

  • Free plan available for 1 user and 2 projects
  • Pro plan: $12 per user per month
  • Enterprise plan: Custom pricing available

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Harvest
Pros Cons
Simple and intuitive interface for easy time tracking Limited customization options for invoices and reports
Integrated expense tracking for comprehensive billing Lack of advanced project management features
Robust reporting features for analyzing project profitability Some users may find the interface too simplistic
Automatic reminders and notifications to ensure accurate tracking
Integrations with popular project management and accounting tools

Best For: Harvest is best suited for remote teams, freelancers, and agencies that need a simple, yet powerful time tracking and invoicing solution to streamline their billing process and gain insights into project profitability.

What do Harvest users say?

G2 Reviews

"As a user of Harvest's features and resources, I can say that it is advanced and productive software that facilitates the management of my time and work projects, allowing real-time visualization of all my work processes. I can also say that Harvest stands out for its report generation features, allowing me to maintain an organized and professional workspace."
-Cindy F., Events and Activities Coordinator, Rated 5/5 stars in G2

18. Clockify

Clockify is a free time tracking app that helps remote teams and individuals monitor their productivity and billable hours. Its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features make it easy to track time spent on tasks, projects, and clients.

Key Features

  • Time Tracking: Track time using a timer, manual entry, or automatic tracking
  • Customizable Projects and Tasks: Organize time entries by projects, tasks, and tags
  • Team Management: Invite team members and manage their time tracking
  • Detailed Reports: Analyze time usage, productivity, and project budgets
  • Integrations: Connect with a wide range of project management and productivity tools

Pricing

  • Free plan with unlimited users, projects, and features
  • Paid plans available for additional features and integrations
    • Plus plan: $9.99 per month
    • Premium plan: $29.99 per month
    • Enterprise plan: $9.99 per user per month

Pros and Cons

Table: Pros and Cons of Clockify
Pros Cons
Free plan with unlimited users and projects Some advanced features are only available on paid plans
Simple and intuitive interface for easy time tracking Reporting features may not be as extensive as some competitors
Customizable projects, tasks, and tags for detailed tracking Occasional syncing issues between devices
Comprehensive team management features
Integrations with popular productivity tools

Best For: Clockify is an excellent choice for remote teams, freelancers, and individuals who need a free, feature-rich time tracking solution to monitor productivity, billable hours, and project progress.

What do Clockify users say?

G2 Reviews

"It is the time control and tracking tool that we use in the company, and in my area, I use it to keep track of the activities and times of my team both in the main office and in the remote offices."
-Alex H., Support manager, Mid-Market, Rated 5/5 stars in G2

Alright, let's dive into the perks of each of these must-have categories of remote work productivity tools and see how they can help your team crush it in 2026.

How do productivity tools benefit remote and distributed teams?[toc=Benefits]

Productivity tools offer a range of benefits for remote and distributed teams, helping them overcome the challenges of working across different locations and time zones.

With our extensive experience in supporting companies with remote hiring, onboarding, and HR operations, we've witnessed firsthand how productivity tools can transform the way distributed teams work together.

Here are the key benefits that these tools provide:

  • Enhanced communication and collaboration: Productivity tools enable seamless communication and collaboration among remote team members, ensuring everyone stays connected and aligned, regardless of their location.
  • Increased efficiency and productivity: By streamlining workflows, automating tasks, and providing real-time updates, productivity tools help remote teams work more efficiently and effectively, leading to increased overall productivity.
  • Improved project visibility and task management: Productivity tools provide a centralized platform for managing projects, assigning tasks, and tracking progress, giving remote teams better visibility and control over their work.
  • Greater flexibility and work-life balance: With the help of productivity tools, remote workers can more easily manage their time, prioritize tasks, and maintain a healthy work-life balance, leading to increased job satisfaction and reduced burnout.
  • Enhanced data security and compliance: Many productivity tools offer robust security features and compliance certifications, ensuring that sensitive data remains protected and that remote teams can collaborate safely and securely.

Get started with Wisemonk EOR for remote hiring and onboarding[toc=How Wisemonk Helps]

Wisemonk EOR Platform
Wisemonk EOR Platform

Ready to build your remote team in India without the compliance headaches? Wisemonk's India-focused EOR platform helps 300+ global companies hire and onboard remote employees compliantly in just 1-2 weeks.

We simplify remote hiring in India by handling all the legal and administrative complexities. Our services include drafting employment contracts that meet Indian labor law requirements, processing monthly payroll with accurate EPF/ESI/TDS calculations, ensuring multi-state compliance across all 28 states, and managing statutory benefits administration.

With Wisemonk, you can focus on managing your remote team's work while we take care of the legal employment aspects.

With transparent, cost-effective pricing starting at just $99/month per employee, we're the smart alternative to global EOR platforms for remote teams in India. We eliminate the need for entity setup, minimize legal risks, and ensure there are no compliance surprises down the road.

Partnering with Wisemonk means you can go from offer acceptance to onboarding your first remote employee in India in under 10 days.

Ready to start hiring your remote team in India? Book a demo with us today!

Frequently asked questions

What tools do remote teams use to stay connected?

Remote teams use a mix of tools to stay connected, including messaging apps like Slack for quick discussions, video conferencing tools like Zoom for face-to-face meetings, and collaboration platforms like Notion or Asana to manage projects and track tasks. These tools help bridge the gap between remote and hybrid teams, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration.

How do you manage productivity when working remotely?

To manage productivity when working remotely, use a combination of project management tools, time tracking software, and clear communication. Break projects down into manageable tasks, assign them to team members, and track progress using tools like Asana or Jira. Use time tracking apps to monitor productivity and identify potential bottlenecks.

What is the best way to track time for remote employees?

The best way to track time for remote employees depends on your team's needs. Time tracking software like Toggl or Harvest can help monitor hours spent on tasks and projects, while built-in time tracking features in project management tools can provide a more integrated approach. Choose a solution that offers easy-to-use features like drag and drop interfaces, customizable categories, and integrations with your existing tools to streamline your workflow.

How do I choose the right productivity tools for my remote team?

When choosing productivity tools for your remote team, consider your team's size, workflow, and specific needs. Look for tools that offer a range of features to support different categories of work, such as communication, project management, and time tracking. Prioritize tools that integrate with one another to create a seamless workflow on one platform, rather than juggling multiple apps.

Can I use these tools for both remote and in-office teams?

Yes, most productivity tools are designed to work seamlessly for both remote and in-office teams. By using the same tools across your organization, you can ensure consistent communication, collaboration, and task management, regardless of location. This helps break down silos and keeps everyone on the same page, whether they're working remotely or in the office.

Are there any security concerns with using cloud-based productivity tools?

While cloud-based productivity tools offer many benefits, it's essential to prioritize security. Choose tools that offer robust security features like encryption, two-factor authentication, and regular backups to protect your data. Ensure that the tools comply with relevant industry regulations and standards, such as GDPR or HIPAA, depending on your business needs.

How can I ensure my team adopts and consistently uses these tools?

To ensure your team adopts and consistently uses productivity tools, involve them in the selection process, provide thorough training, and lead by example. Clearly communicate the benefits of the tools and how they can help streamline workflows and boost productivity. Offer ongoing support and resources to help team members get the most out of the tools, and regularly gather feedback to identify areas for improvement.

Latest Blogs

best global eor companies

10 Best Employer of Record (EOR) Companies 2026

Employer of Record Services
February 18, 2026
Cost of EOR in India

What is the Cost of EOR in India? | EOR Pricing Guide

Employer of Record Services
February 18, 2026
Pros and Cons of EOR in India

Pros and Cons of Employer of Record (EOR) in India

Employer of Record Services
February 16, 2026