Notion vs. Trello: 2026 Comparison

Notion and Trello offer strong task management capabilities,but are designed for different workflows and user preferences.

Here’s what Notion users like about this feature:

• Customizable task structures using Kanban boards, nested subtasks, and pages

• Ability to create parent-child task hierarchies for deep planning

• Flexible dashboards that combine tasks, deadlines, and documents

• Collaboration tools, like in-task comments and reminders

Here’s what Trello users like about this feature:

• Simple board–list–card layout that’s easy to understand and use

• Drag-and-drop interface and progress checklists for quick updates

• Built-in automation via Butler for recurring actions and rules

• Fast setup with minimal onboarding required

Some users report limitations with task management in both tools:

• Notion lacks native automation and real-time calendar sync, which slows down fast-paced workflows.

• Trello users say large boards can become cluttered and require more filters or structure for complex projects.

Task management for Notion:

Of the 222 reviewers who discussed task management, 94% rated this feature as important or highly important. It’s ideal for teams that need a flexible, layered organization.

Task management for Trello:

Of 594 reviewers, 97% said this feature was essential. Its straightforward structure and ease of use make it a top choice for teams managing lightweight or visual tasks.

Notion offers flexible planning that adapts to different workflows, while Trello focuses on quick visual scheduling for fast-moving teams. Their strengths serve very different planning needs.

Here’s what Notion users like about this feature:

• Customizable databases and Kanban boards to match unique planning workflows

• Integration with Google Calendar for syncing timelines

• Ability to connect projects with task pages, notes, and team docs

• Drag-and-drop flexibility that works well for cross-functional teams

Here’s what Trello users like about this feature:

• Color-coded cards and due dates for at-a-glance visibility

• Calendar power-up and Google sync for basic scheduling

• Easy drag-and-drop planning in a simple board layout

• Lightweight setup that helps small teams stay organized without clutter

Users also report some limitations with planning tools in both platforms:

• Notion lacks native Gantt charts or visual roadmap views, which some teams miss

• Trello doesn’t offer dependency management or advanced scheduling metrics, which limits scalability for complex planning

Project planning/scheduling for Notion:

Of 145 reviewers, 95% rated this feature as important or highly important. It’s best suited for teams that want total control over organizing and visualizing project plans.

Project planning/scheduling for Trello:

Out of 275 reviewers, 96% considered this feature essential. Its strength is keeping timelines simple and visually digestible, especially for smaller teams.

Notion gives teams complete control over tracking progress, with custom fields and workflows. Trello keeps it simple with real-time activity feeds and easy-to-follow updates.

Here’s what Notion users like about this feature:

• Customizable status boards and dashboards

• Visual indicators, tags, and reminders to show task movement

• Full control over how and where activity is tracked

• Flexibility to match team-specific workflows

Here’s what Trello users like about this feature:

• Simple activity feeds showing recent changes and team updates

• Real-time notifications for card movement and comments

• Time logging and comment history to track accountability

• Built-in visibility with no complex setup required

Some common issues raised by users include:

• Notion users say progress tracking requires manual setup or formulas, which may be a hurdle for new teams.

• Trello users mention that the activity feed lacks depth for time-based analytics or detailed reporting.

Activity tracking for Notion:

Of the 177 reviewers who evaluated this feature, 95% rated it as important or highly important. Notion stands out for teams that want to build their own system to monitor progress.

Activity tracking for Trello:

Among 61 reviewers, 90% rated this feature as important or highly important. Trello’s built-in tracking appeals to teams that prioritize simplicity and real-time visibility.