Project management · Head to head
Basecamp vs Microsoft Planner: which is better?
Short answer
Basecamp costs less in the first year ($348 vs $600 for 5 users). Pick Basecamp for small teams wanting simple project hub; pick Microsoft Planner for Microsoft 365 teams.
| Fact | Basecamp | Microsoft Planner | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Small teams wanting simple project hub | Microsoft 365 teams | — |
| Free plan | Yes, 1 project | No | Basecamp |
| Entry plan | Freelancer: $29 / mo | Planner Plan 1: $10 / seat / mo | — |
| Mid plan | Pro: $79 / mo | Planner and Project Plan 3: $30 / seat / mo | — |
| Top plan | Pro Unlimited: $199 / mo | Planner and Project Plan 3: $30 / seat / mo | — |
| 1st year, 5 users | $348 | $600 | Basecamp |
| Platforms | Web | Web | Tie |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which has the better free plan, Basecamp or Microsoft Planner?
Basecamp: Yes, 1 project.
Should you pick Basecamp or Microsoft Planner?
Pick Basecamp if
- you want small teams wanting simple project hub
- the free plan is enough (1 project)
Pick Microsoft Planner if
- you want Microsoft 365 teams
- you can pay $10 / seat / mo from day one
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Basecamp pricing | basecamp.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Microsoft Planner pricing | microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/planner/microsoft-planner-plans-and-pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare