Softset Time vs Itsycal
Last verified · Written by Softset, the makers of Softset Time
In short
Itsycal is a free, tiny menu bar calendar that also shows events and lets you join virtual meetings. Softset Time adds world clocks with a time slider, a reminder that appears before calls, a next-meeting countdown in the menu bar, and a shortcut that joins the current call.
Who each is for
Choose Softset Time if…
- You work across time zones and want world clocks next to your calendar.
- You want a reminder on top of everything before each call.
Choose Itsycal if…
- You want a free menu bar calendar.
- You're on macOS 11 to 13: Itsycal supports macOS 11 and later.
Side by side
| Feature | Softset Time | Itsycal |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $9.99 once, for one Mac. | Free. source |
| macOS | macOS 14 or later. | macOS 11 or later. source |
| Events from Calendar | Yes. | Yes. source |
| Create events | Yes, typed in plain English. | Yes. source |
| Join video calls | Join button for 16 services. | Yes. source |
| Reminder before calls | Yes, on top of everything. | Not described on Itsycal's site. source |
| World clocks | Up to eight, with a time slider. | Not described on Itsycal's site. source |
| ISO week numbers | Yes. | Yes. source |
Differences
Free versus paid
Itsycal is free and does the core job well. Softset Time is paid, and adds world clocks and reminders before calls.
Creating events
Both create events from the menu bar. In Softset Time you type a sentence such as "Standup tomorrow 9:30 for 15 min" and check the preview before it's added.
Looking for a Itsycal alternative?
If you’re searching for “itsycal alternative” or “menu bar calendar for mac”, the table above covers what changes when you switch. Softset Time’s own page has the full details, including its privacy and permissions trust card.
Softset Time
A calendar and world clocks in the menu bar. Click the date to see the month and today's meetings, join a call in one click, and get a reminder before it starts.
Coming soon. Planned price: $9.99 once, with a 14-day free trial.