Compare Loop Habits, HabitNow, and Habit Diary: Which App is the Best?

Habit Diary is a comprehensive habit tracking app that helps you build good habits through customizable tracking, 30-day challenges, and progress visualization.
HabitNow is a flexible habit and routine tracker with powerful scheduling, reminders, widgets, and detailed progress stats. Free to use, with a one-time premium upgrade for unlimited features.
A free, privacy-focused habit tracker that combines powerful features with elegant simplicity. In our review, we found it offers everything needed for effective habit building without the clutter of unnecessary features or ads.
Key Features
  • Customizable Daily Habits – Create and customize your daily habits with a clean, intuitive interface and preset library of popular habits
  • 30-Day Challenge System – Follow scientifically proven 3-stage habit-building journeys designed to help you form lasting habits
  • Focus & Time Management – Built-in timer and white noise features to help you stay focused and boost productivity
  • Smart Reminders – Customizable notifications to keep you on track throughout the day
  • Progress Visualization – Track your progress with detailed statistics, streaks, and achievement medals
  • Multi-Type To-Do Lists – Manage daily, monthly, and annual habits alongside one-time tasks
  • Flexible Habit & Task Scheduling – Set daily, weekly, monthly, or custom routines
  • Widgets & Reminders – Home screen widgets and customizable notifications
  • Timer & Pomodoro Tools – Built-in stopwatch, countdown, and interval timers
  • Detailed Progress Tracking – Visual stats, charts, and streaks to keep you motivated
  • Customizable Experience – Personalize with themes, icons, and categories
  • Data Backup & Privacy – Local backups and lock screen for privacy
  • Flexible Habit Tracking: In our review, we found that Loop supports various tracking frequencies including daily, weekly, and monthly goals (like "3 times per week" or "once every other week").
  • Detailed Analytics: The app provides comprehensive statistics and graphs that clearly visualize your progress over time, including habit strength calculations and historical data.
  • Customizable Widgets: During testing, we particularly appreciated the variety of home screen widgets that allow quick habit tracking without opening the app.
  • Privacy-Focused: All data is stored locally on your device with no account required. The app works completely offline and includes export options to CSV and SQLite formats.
  • Smart Reminders: Each habit can have its own notification schedule, with the option to make notifications "sticky" until you respond.
  • Clean Interface: We found the minimalist design keeps you focused on building habits without unnecessary distractions.
Our Rating
7.2
9.2
9.3
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Entry Level PriceFreeFreeFree
Android
Google Play Store
Downloads
Google Play Store
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Google Play Store
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iOS
Apple App Store
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Features
7.0

Habit Diary offers a solid foundation of habit tracking features that cover the essential needs of most users. The app's core functionality includes customizable daily habits, progress tracking, and a unique 30-day challenge system that sets it apart from many competitors.

What we found particularly effective during our testing:

  • Core Habit Tracking: The basic habit creation and tracking works smoothly, with users consistently praising how easy it is to set up and monitor daily habits
  • Progress Visualization: Users specifically mentioned appreciating the "good progress visual" elements, which help maintain motivation
  • Reminder System: The notification system appears to work reliably, with users noting "good reminders" that help them stay on track
  • 30-Day Challenge: The structured approach to habit building provides a clear framework for users to follow

However, there are some limitations that impact the overall feature score. The free version restricts the number of habits users can track, which several users found frustrating. Additionally, some advanced features like detailed analytics and custom widgets are locked behind the premium paywall.

We also confirmed user reports that "the app does not appear to have any widgets" in the free version, and encountered the same Google backup problems that users report, with one user stating "i cant backup my account with google."

Based on our testing and user feedback, we rate the features at 7.0 out of 10. The app delivers solid core functionality and some unique elements like the challenge system, but the freemium restrictions and limited free features prevent it from scoring higher.

9.0

HabitNow delivers a comprehensive set of features for habit and routine tracking. We especially appreciate the flexible scheduling options—daily, weekly, monthly, and custom routines—which make it easy to adapt the app to any workflow. Widgets and reminders are reliable, and the built-in timer and Pomodoro tools are a great boost for productivity. Progress tracking is motivating, with detailed stats and streaks that help keep us on track.

The free version covers most basic needs, though it does limit the number of habits and tasks you can track. Upgrading to premium unlocks unlimited habits, advanced customization, and additional widgets. While we'd like to see features like account sync and even more robust alarm reliability, HabitNow offers an impressive feature set for both new and experienced users.

8.5

Loop offers an impressive set of core features that focus on effective habit tracking without unnecessary bloat. The standout feature is the sophisticated habit strength calculation that considers both your streaks and overall consistency.

Key features we thoroughly tested include:

  • Flexible Tracking Options: The app supports daily, weekly, and monthly goals with customizable frequencies
  • Detailed Statistics: Multiple graph types show your progress over time
  • Custom Notifications: Individual reminders for each habit with "sticky" notification option
  • Home Screen Widgets: Various widget styles for quick habit tracking
  • Data Management: Export to CSV and SQLite formats for backup or analysis
  • Calendar View: Easy access to historical data and habit completion

However, we did notice some limitations. The app lacks the ability to categorize habits into groups or folders, which can become unwieldy with many habits. There's also no way to track multiple completions of the same habit within a day, and the weekly scheduling could be more flexible. For users who need comprehensive scheduling and timer functionality, HabitNow provides more advanced organizational features.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the features present are thoughtfully implemented and work reliably. We're giving it an 8.5 for features - it excels at core functionality while maintaining simplicity, though there's room for some organizational improvements.

Performance
6.5

Habit Diary performs exceptionally well in day-to-day use. The app is lightweight, launches quickly, and all interactions—such as marking completions, navigating between views, and customizing habits—are smooth and responsive.

We encountered very few bugs or crashes, and the app remained stable even when tracking a large number of habits. User reviews echo this experience, with most people praising the app's reliability and speed.

However, there are some performance considerations that impact our rating:

  • Ad-Related Interruptions: The free version's ad integration can create performance hiccups and loading delays
  • Widget Performance: Some users mentioned that widgets could be more responsive and better integrated
  • Backup Functionality: Issues with Google backup integration suggest some performance challenges with external service connections

Overall, Habit Diary delivers a consistently fast and stable experience, both in our hands-on testing and according to the majority of user feedback. We rate its performance at 6.5 out of 10, acknowledging the app's solid technical foundation while noting that some premium features and external integrations could benefit from performance optimization.

9.0

HabitNow performs reliably in daily use. The app is fast, responsive, and stable, even when tracking a large number of habits and tasks. We experienced smooth navigation and quick loading times throughout our testing.

While there are occasional reports of alarms or notifications not firing as expected, and some widget update quirks, these issues are relatively rare and do not significantly impact the overall experience. HabitNow delivers strong performance for a productivity app of its kind.

9.5

Throughout our testing, Loop demonstrated exceptional performance with near-instant response times and minimal resource usage. The app's efficiency is particularly impressive given its extensive tracking and visualization capabilities.

Key performance aspects:

  • Quick Startup: Launches rapidly and loads data instantly
  • Smooth Navigation: No lag when switching between views or scrolling through history
  • Low Resource Usage: Minimal battery drain and memory consumption
  • Reliable Widgets: Home screen widgets update promptly without issues

The 9.5 rating acknowledges Loop's outstanding optimization and reliability. This performance excellence places Loop among the top performers in the category, alongside HabitNow which also achieves strong performance ratings for its comprehensive feature set.

Design
8.5

Habit Diary presents a clean and modern design that prioritizes usability while maintaining visual appeal. The interface strikes a good balance between functionality and aesthetics, with a layout that makes navigation intuitive for most users.

Design strengths we observed include:

  • Visual Appeal: Users repeatedly mention "awesome graphics and fonts" and describe the app as "sleek" and "intuitive"
  • Interface Quality: Multiple users describe the interface as "intuitive" and note that it "makes navigation a breeze"
  • User Experience: The design successfully creates what users call a "friendly interface" that's easy to navigate
  • Progress Visualization: The visual elements for tracking progress receive consistent praise, with users noting "good progress visual"
  • Overall Polish: Users describe the app as "flawless" and "perfect" in terms of its visual presentation

However, there are some design aspects that could be improved. The free version's ad integration can feel intrusive and disrupt the otherwise clean aesthetic. Some users also noted that the widget functionality, while functional, could benefit from more customization options and better visual integration with the main app design.

Overall, Habit Diary's design successfully creates an engaging and motivating environment for habit tracking. The interface effectively balances simplicity with functionality, making it accessible to users of all experience levels. We rate design at 8.5 out of 10, acknowledging the app's strong visual foundation while noting areas where the user experience could be further enhanced.

9.2

Design is one of HabitNow's standout qualities. The interface is clean, modern, and easy to navigate, making it simple to set up and manage habits or routines. We enjoyed the customizable themes and icons, which allow for a personalized look and feel.

Widgets are visually appealing and integrate well with the Android home screen. While we'd love to see even more color options and better support for system fonts or accessibility settings, the overall design is both attractive and highly functional. HabitNow strikes a great balance between aesthetics and usability.

9.0

Loop's Material Design implementation stands out for its thoughtful balance between aesthetics and functionality. The interface uses color purposefully to highlight important information while maintaining a clean, distraction-free environment.

Design highlights:

  • Clear Data Visualization: Graphs and progress indicators are both beautiful and easy to interpret
  • Consistent Patterns: Common actions follow familiar Android design patterns
  • Effective Use of Space: Information density is well-balanced across all screens
  • Responsive Layout: Adapts smoothly to different screen sizes and orientations

While some might find the design austere, this intentional simplicity helps users focus on their habits. The 9.0 rating reflects excellent execution of Material Design principles with room for minor visual refinements. For users who prioritize visual appeal, HabitKit offers a more elegant GitHub-style visualization that some find more motivating.

Value for Money
5.5

Habit Diary offers a freemium model with both free and premium features. The free version provides basic habit tracking functionality but comes with limitations on the number of habits you can track and some advanced features.

Premium features include:

  • Unlimited habit tracking
  • Advanced analytics and statistics
  • Custom widgets
  • Data backup and sync
  • Priority support

In-app purchases range from €7.49 to €28.99, with options for monthly, yearly, or lifetime subscriptions. The free version is ad-supported, which some users find intrusive, but it does provide enough functionality to evaluate whether the app fits your needs before upgrading.

However, several factors limit the value for money. Users consistently mention that the free version restricts the number of habits they can track, which can be frustrating for serious users. The free version's ad-supported model creates a fragmented user experience that some users find off-putting.

We rate value for money at 5.5 out of 10. While the app provides solid functionality and competitive pricing for premium users, the free version's limitations and ad-supported model create a mixed value proposition that may not appeal to all users.

9.5

We think HabitNow offers excellent value for money, especially with its one-time premium upgrade that unlocks unlimited habits, advanced customization, and additional widgets. The free version is generous enough for most users to get started, and there are no ads or forced subscriptions.

Compared to other habit trackers that require ongoing payments, HabitNow's pricing model is refreshingly fair. While some may wish for a slightly higher free limit, the premium upgrade is well worth it for anyone serious about habit tracking and productivity.

10

Loop Habit Tracker delivers exceptional value as a completely free, ad-free, and open-source application. During our testing, we were consistently impressed by the quality and completeness of features available without any monetary commitment.

Value highlights:

  • No Premium Tier: All features available to everyone
  • Zero Ads: Clean, uninterrupted experience
  • Regular Updates: Continuous improvements without subscription
  • No Hidden Costs: Complete functionality without in-app purchases

The perfect 10.0 rating reflects Loop's outstanding commitment to providing a premium-quality habit tracker completely free of charge. This makes it an excellent choice for users who want high-quality features without spending money, though Habitive also offers unlimited free habits for those who need more flexibility.

Ease of Use
9.0

Habit Diary excels in user experience, with most users finding the app remarkably easy to navigate and use. The interface design prioritizes simplicity, making it accessible even for users who are new to habit tracking apps.

Highlights include:

  • Intuitive Navigation: Users consistently praise the app for its straightforward navigation, with core functions easily accessible
  • Quick Setup: Setting up a new habit takes just seconds—name it, pick an icon and color, and you're ready to go
  • Clear Visual Feedback: The color-coded interface instantly shows your progress
  • Simple Navigation: All core functions are accessible within a tap or two

The only minor quirk is that some advanced features might benefit from more detailed onboarding or help documentation. Once learned, it's easy to use.

Overall, Habit Diary's ease of use is one of its greatest strengths. The app successfully balances simplicity with functionality, making habit tracking accessible to a wide range of users. We rate ease of use at 9.0 out of 10, recognizing the app's excellent user experience while noting that some premium features could benefit from enhanced user guidance.

9.3

We found HabitNow remarkably easy to use, with a clear and intuitive interface that makes setting up habits and routines quick and painless. Adding, editing, and organizing tasks is straightforward, and the onboarding process is smooth for new users. Widgets and reminders are easy to configure, and the app's layout keeps everything accessible without clutter.

There are a few minor quirks, such as needing to manually mark tasks as done after using the timer, or occasional confusion with backup and import features. However, these do not detract significantly from the overall experience. HabitNow is a great choice for anyone looking for a straightforward and effective habit tracker.

9.2

Loop Habit Tracker excels in providing a straightforward, intuitive experience without sacrificing functionality. Our testing revealed an app that anyone can start using effectively within minutes.

Standout usability features:

  • Simple Habit Creation: Adding new habits takes just a few taps with clear, logical options
  • Efficient Daily Use: Main screen provides quick access to all habits with one-tap completion
  • Smart Notifications: Reminders can be managed directly from notifications without opening the app
  • Intuitive History: Calendar view makes it easy to review and edit past entries
  • Accessible Statistics: Complex data presented in easily digestible visual formats

The 9.2 rating reflects the app's excellent usability, with only minor deductions for the initial learning curve of advanced features like custom schedules and the habit strength system. For users who want an even simpler setup process, Habitive offers a 3-click setup that's hard to beat.

Security & Privacy
6.5

Habit Diary's security and privacy practices present a mixed picture that reflects the typical approach of freemium apps in the habit tracking space. While the app doesn't appear to have major security vulnerabilities, there are some privacy considerations that users should be aware of.

We found no evidence of third-party analytics or tracking tools. The app only requests essential permissions, such as notifications for reminders. This commitment to privacy is rare and highly appreciated.

However, there are some privacy concerns that impact our rating:

  • Ad Integration: The free version's ad-supported model means user data may be shared with third-party advertising networks
  • Limited Transparency: There's insufficient information about data collection practices and how user information is handled
  • Backup Limitations: Some users mentioned issues with Google backup functionality, which could indicate data handling challenges
  • Third-Party Services: The app's integration with external services may involve additional data sharing

While Habit Diary doesn't appear to have any egregious privacy violations, the lack of clear information about data practices and the ad-supported model in the free version create uncertainty about how user information is handled. We rate security and privacy at 6.5 out of 10, acknowledging that while there are no major red flags, users should be aware of the potential data sharing implications of using the free version.

9.0

We appreciate that HabitNow takes privacy seriously by storing your data locally on your device and not requiring an account for basic use. The lock screen feature adds an extra layer of privacy for sensitive routines and notes, and backups can be created and exported manually, giving you full control over your data.

While some may wish for account-based sync or cloud backup, the current approach ensures your information stays private. There are no intrusive ads or unnecessary permissions, making HabitNow a trustworthy choice for privacy-conscious users.

9.8

Privacy is where Loop truly shines. As an open-source app with a strict privacy-first approach, it sets a high standard for data protection in habit tracking apps.

Key privacy features:

  • Zero Data Collection: No personal information gathered or transmitted
  • Offline Operation: Functions fully without internet access
  • Local Storage: All data stays on your device
  • Minimal Permissions: Only requests essential Android permissions
  • Transparent Code: Open-source nature allows security verification

The 9.8 rating acknowledges Loop's exceptional privacy practices, with the tiny deduction only because some users might want optional cloud backup. This privacy focus puts Loop in excellent company with HabitKit, which also achieves a 9.8 rating for its offline-first approach.

Conclusion

Habit Diary is a solid habit tracking app that offers a comprehensive set of features for building and maintaining good habits. While the free version has limitations and includes ads, the premium features provide good value for serious users.

The app's strength lies in its user-friendly interface and the 30-day challenge system that helps users form lasting habits. However, the freemium model and ad-supported free version may not appeal to everyone.

For users who want unlimited habits without paying, Habitive offers a completely free alternative. Those seeking a more elegant design might prefer HabitKit with its beautiful GitHub-style visualization. However, if you value the structured 30-day challenge approach and don't mind the freemium limitations, Habit Diary remains a solid choice in the competitive habit tracking space.

HabitNow Daily Routine Planner stands out as a flexible and feature-rich app for building habits and managing daily routines. Its clean design, powerful customization, and motivating progress tracking make it a top choice for anyone serious about self-improvement. While the free version has some limits, the one-time premium upgrade offers excellent value for unlocking the app's full potential.

For users who want unlimited free habits, Habitive is the best option. Those seeking elegant design might prefer HabitKit with its beautiful GitHub-style visualization. If you want gamification, Habitica offers unique RPG elements. However, if you need comprehensive scheduling, timer functionality, and flexible habit management, HabitNow provides the most complete solution in the habit tracking space.

Loop Habit Tracker proves that simplicity and power can coexist perfectly in a habit tracking app. Its thoughtful design and robust feature set create an experience that's both sophisticated and accessible to everyone.

The app's commitment to user privacy and freedom sets it apart - being completely free, open-source, and offline-first. The distraction-free interface and reliable performance make it a pleasure to use daily, while comprehensive analytics keep you motivated.

While there's room for improvements in areas like habit categorization and cloud sync, the core functionality is exceptional. With an average rating of 9.3 across our review categories, Loop stands out as a premium-quality app that puts users first.

For anyone seeking a reliable, privacy-focused habit tracker that emphasizes substance over flash, Loop Habit Tracker is our top recommendation. However, if you need unlimited free habits without any restrictions, Habitive offers the best free experience, while HabitKit provides superior design aesthetics for users willing to pay for premium features.

Our Recommendation