TidyCal vs Cal.com
A detailed, unbiased comparison to help you choose the right scheduling software for your needs. Updated for 2026.
Key Takeaways
- TidyCal excels at: $29 lifetime deal
- Cal.com excels at: Open source
- Cal.com wins 4 out of 6 categories
- TidyCal is best for: Budget-conscious solo users
- Cal.com is best for: Technical teams and developers
Quick Overview
TidyCal
TidyCal is a budget scheduling tool with a $29 lifetime deal. Best for individuals wanting low cost.
Pros
- $29 lifetime deal
- Simple to use
- One-time payment
- Basic features included
Cons
- Very limited features
- No team scheduling
- Limited integrations
- Uncertain future updates
Cal.com
Cal.com is an open-source scheduling platform. Best for developers and teams wanting control.
Pros
- Open source
- Self-hosting option
- Developer-friendly API
- No vendor lock-in
- Active community
Cons
- Self-hosting is complex
- Cloud version expensive
- Steeper learning curve
- Less polished UX
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | TidyCal | Cal.com | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Point | $29 one-time | $12+/month (cloud) | TidyCal |
| Open Source | No | Yes | Cal.com |
| Features | Basic | Advanced | Cal.com |
| Ease of Use | Easy | Moderate | TidyCal |
| Team Features | None | Yes | Cal.com |
| Self-Hosting | No | Yes | Cal.com |
“After comparing TidyCal and Cal.com, I found SchedulingKit offered a better balance of features and pricing for my business needs.”
Our Verdict
TidyCal is the cheapest option for solo users. Cal.com is for technical teams wanting control. SchedulingKit offers the best balance—full features, free plan, no self-hosting needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TidyCal or Cal.com better for small businesses?
It depends on your specific needs. TidyCal is best for budget-conscious solo users. Cal.com is best for technical teams and developers. Consider your budget, required features, and technical comfort level when choosing.
Which is more affordable, TidyCal or Cal.com?
TidyCal pricing: $29 lifetime / $9/month. Cal.com pricing: Free (self-hosted) / $12-30/seat/month. Compare your expected usage and required features to determine the best value for your situation.
Can I switch from TidyCal to Cal.com?
Yes, you can switch between these platforms, though there's no direct migration tool. You'll need to recreate your event types, update booking links on your website and email signature, and reconnect calendar integrations. Plan for 1-2 hours of setup time.
What are the main differences between TidyCal and Cal.com?
The key differences are in their target users and feature focus. TidyCal's strengths include: $29 lifetime deal, Simple to use. Cal.com's strengths include: Open source, Self-hosting option. Review the comparison table above for a detailed breakdown.
Is there a better alternative to both TidyCal and Cal.com?
SchedulingKit offers a compelling alternative that combines the best features of both platforms. With a generous free tier and powerful features like automated reminders, intake forms, and team scheduling, it's worth considering if neither option fully meets your needs.
Full features without self-hosting complexity
Try SchedulingKit free and see why thousands of businesses are switching.
14-day free trial • No credit card required