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Top 10 Best Employee Check In Software of 2026

Discover the top 10 employee check-in software to streamline communication. Find the best fit and boost team productivity now.

Min-ji Park

Min-ji Park

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
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Effective employee check-in software is a cornerstone of modern workforce management, streamlining attendance tracking, enhancing accountability, and supporting seamless operations. With options ranging from mobile GPS tools to biometric and integrated scheduling solutions, choosing the right platform can transform how teams manage time and presence. Below, we highlight the top 10 tools, curated to meet diverse business needs.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: Deputy - Deputy offers mobile check-in/out with GPS verification, scheduling, and timesheets for efficient employee attendance tracking.
  2. 2#2: Connecteam - Connecteam provides a mobile app for employee check-ins, time tracking, communication, and task management in one platform.
  3. 3#3: Homebase - Homebase delivers free scheduling and time clock software with geofencing check-ins for small to medium teams.
  4. 4#4: QuickBooks Time - QuickBooks Time enables GPS-enabled mobile check-ins, timesheets, and payroll integration for accurate attendance.
  5. 5#5: Hubstaff - Hubstaff tracks employee check-ins with GPS, activity monitoring, and screenshots for remote and field teams.
  6. 6#6: When I Work - When I Work supports shift scheduling and mobile time clock check-ins with notifications for hourly workers.
  7. 7#7: Clockify - Clockify offers unlimited free time tracking with one-click check-ins and reporting for teams of any size.
  8. 8#8: Jibble - Jibble provides free facial recognition check-ins, GPS tracking, and timesheets for precise employee attendance.
  9. 9#9: Buddy Punch - Buddy Punch features photo and facial verification for kiosk and mobile check-ins to prevent buddy punching.
  10. 10#10: OnTheClock - OnTheClock delivers online time clocks with GPS check-ins, biometric options, and payroll exports for businesses.

We ranked these tools based on key factors including feature depth (check-in methods, integration capabilities, and additional utilities), usability (intuitive design, accessibility), and value (cost-effectiveness, scalability, and unique benefits like biometric security or payroll integration), ensuring optimal utility for businesses of all sizes.

Comparison Table

Discover a comparison of top employee check-in software, featuring tools like Deputy, Connecteam, Homebase, QuickBooks Time, Hubstaff and more, which focus on simplifying scheduling, time tracking, and team coordination. This table outlines key features, usability, and practical benefits, guiding readers to choose the most suitable option for their business’s specific needs and scale.

1Deputy logo9.5/10

Deputy offers mobile check-in/out with GPS verification, scheduling, and timesheets for efficient employee attendance tracking.

Features
9.8/10
Ease
9.3/10
Value
9.1/10
2Connecteam logo9.2/10

Connecteam provides a mobile app for employee check-ins, time tracking, communication, and task management in one platform.

Features
9.4/10
Ease
9.3/10
Value
8.7/10
3Homebase logo8.7/10

Homebase delivers free scheduling and time clock software with geofencing check-ins for small to medium teams.

Features
8.9/10
Ease
9.2/10
Value
8.5/10

QuickBooks Time enables GPS-enabled mobile check-ins, timesheets, and payroll integration for accurate attendance.

Features
9.0/10
Ease
8.5/10
Value
7.8/10
5Hubstaff logo8.2/10

Hubstaff tracks employee check-ins with GPS, activity monitoring, and screenshots for remote and field teams.

Features
8.7/10
Ease
7.9/10
Value
8.0/10

When I Work supports shift scheduling and mobile time clock check-ins with notifications for hourly workers.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
8.8/10
Value
7.9/10
7Clockify logo8.2/10

Clockify offers unlimited free time tracking with one-click check-ins and reporting for teams of any size.

Features
7.8/10
Ease
9.2/10
Value
9.5/10
8Jibble logo8.4/10

Jibble provides free facial recognition check-ins, GPS tracking, and timesheets for precise employee attendance.

Features
8.6/10
Ease
9.1/10
Value
9.4/10

Buddy Punch features photo and facial verification for kiosk and mobile check-ins to prevent buddy punching.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
9.1/10
Value
8.0/10
10OnTheClock logo7.8/10

OnTheClock delivers online time clocks with GPS check-ins, biometric options, and payroll exports for businesses.

Features
7.5/10
Ease
8.5/10
Value
8.8/10
1
Deputy logo

Deputy

enterprise

Deputy offers mobile check-in/out with GPS verification, scheduling, and timesheets for efficient employee attendance tracking.

Overall Rating9.5/10
Features
9.8/10
Ease of Use
9.3/10
Value
9.1/10
Standout Feature

Advanced GPS geofencing combined with photo verification and dynamic compliance checklists for tamper-proof, regulation-ready check-ins

Deputy is a robust workforce management platform specializing in employee check-in solutions via its intuitive mobile app, enabling GPS-verified clock-ins/outs, photo capture, and customizable compliance checklists to ensure accurate attendance and regulatory adherence. It integrates seamlessly with scheduling and communication tools, providing real-time visibility for managers to approve shifts and monitor compliance. Perfect for shift-based industries, it minimizes buddy punching and administrative overhead while supporting multi-location operations.

Pros

  • Precise GPS geofencing and photo/facial recognition prevent fraudulent check-ins
  • Customizable checklists for safety, hygiene, and compliance on every shift start
  • Real-time alerts, manager approvals, and seamless integration with scheduling

Cons

  • Higher pricing tiers needed for advanced analytics and unlimited locations
  • Initial setup and customization can require admin training
  • Limited free plan features for larger teams

Best For

Shift-based businesses in retail, hospitality, healthcare, and field services requiring secure, compliant employee check-ins with minimal administrative effort.

Pricing

Free for small teams (1 location); paid plans start at $3.50/user/month (billed annually) for Shift Ready, up to enterprise custom pricing.

Visit Deputydeputy.com
2
Connecteam logo

Connecteam

enterprise

Connecteam provides a mobile app for employee check-ins, time tracking, communication, and task management in one platform.

Overall Rating9.2/10
Features
9.4/10
Ease of Use
9.3/10
Value
8.7/10
Standout Feature

Facial recognition and multi-verification time clock that minimizes buddy punching and ensures precise location-based check-ins.

Connecteam is a comprehensive mobile-first workforce management platform designed for deskless and frontline teams, with strong employee check-in capabilities via its GPS-enabled time clock app. Employees can clock in and out using geofencing, photo capture, facial recognition, and QR codes to ensure accuracy and prevent time theft. It integrates check-ins with scheduling, task checklists, and real-time communication, providing managers with detailed attendance reports and insights.

Pros

  • Robust time clock with GPS geofencing, facial recognition, and photo verification for secure check-ins
  • Intuitive mobile app tailored for non-desk workers with offline support
  • All-in-one platform combining check-ins with scheduling, tasks, and communication

Cons

  • Pricing scales quickly for larger teams and advanced features require higher tiers
  • Customization options can feel overwhelming for basic check-in needs
  • Customer support response times vary for free/basic plans

Best For

Small to mid-sized businesses with mobile or field-based teams needing reliable, verifiable employee check-ins integrated with daily operations.

Pricing

Free for up to 10 users; paid plans start at $29/month for the first 30 users (Operations plan), with Advanced ($49/month) and Expert ($99/month) tiers adding features, billed per user/month.

Visit Connecteamconnecteam.com
3
Homebase logo

Homebase

enterprise

Homebase delivers free scheduling and time clock software with geofencing check-ins for small to medium teams.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
8.9/10
Ease of Use
9.2/10
Value
8.5/10
Standout Feature

GPS geofencing combined with photo and facial recognition to verify employee location and identity during check-ins

Homebase is a comprehensive workforce management platform tailored for small businesses, with strong employee check-in features via its mobile app. It enables GPS geofencing, photo verification, and facial recognition for accurate clock-ins and outs, minimizing time theft. The tool integrates time tracking with scheduling, communication, and payroll, streamlining operations for shift-based teams.

Pros

  • Intuitive mobile app with GPS geofencing and photo verification for secure check-ins
  • Free plan for single-location businesses with unlimited employees
  • Seamless integration of time tracking with scheduling and team messaging

Cons

  • Advanced reporting and multi-location support require paid upgrades
  • Occasional mobile app glitches reported by users during peak hours
  • Limited customization options for time clock policies

Best For

Small retail, restaurant, and service businesses with hourly shift workers needing simple, affordable check-in and scheduling tools.

Pricing

Free for one location (unlimited employees); paid plans start at $29.99/month per location (billed annually) for premium features.

Visit Homebasehomebaseapp.com
4
QuickBooks Time logo

QuickBooks Time

enterprise

QuickBooks Time enables GPS-enabled mobile check-ins, timesheets, and payroll integration for accurate attendance.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
9.0/10
Ease of Use
8.5/10
Value
7.8/10
Standout Feature

Geofencing for automatic clock-in/out when employees enter or leave predefined job sites

QuickBooks Time is a robust time tracking and employee check-in solution that enables workers to clock in and out via a mobile app with GPS location verification and geofencing for automatic time capture at job sites. It includes features like photo verification on clock-in, timesheet approvals, scheduling, and seamless integration with QuickBooks for payroll processing. Designed primarily for mobile and field-based teams, it ensures accurate attendance tracking while minimizing time theft through location-based controls.

Pros

  • Precise GPS tracking and geofencing for automatic check-ins at specific locations
  • Photo capture and facial verification options to prevent buddy punching
  • Deep integration with QuickBooks for streamlined payroll and invoicing

Cons

  • Pricing scales per user, which can become expensive for large teams
  • Less ideal for purely office-based check-ins without mobile needs
  • Advanced features like unlimited GPS history require premium plans

Best For

Field service, construction, and remote teams requiring location-verified employee check-ins with accounting integration.

Pricing

Starts at $20 base/month + $8/user/month for Premium (GPS, scheduling); Elite at $10/user/month adds advanced alerts and payroll.

Visit QuickBooks Timequickbookstime.com
5
Hubstaff logo

Hubstaff

specialized

Hubstaff tracks employee check-ins with GPS, activity monitoring, and screenshots for remote and field teams.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.7/10
Ease of Use
7.9/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Automated screenshots and activity levels providing visual proof of employee check-ins and productivity

Hubstaff is a comprehensive time tracking and employee monitoring platform that enables check-ins through automated time tracking, activity monitoring, and attendance logging. It captures screenshots, keyboard/mouse activity, and GPS locations to verify employee presence and productivity. Ideal for remote and hybrid teams, it integrates with payroll and project management tools for seamless workflow management.

Pros

  • Robust activity tracking with screenshots and app usage monitoring
  • GPS and geofencing for location-based check-ins
  • Strong integrations with payroll and productivity tools

Cons

  • Privacy concerns from invasive monitoring features
  • Steeper learning curve for advanced settings
  • Higher costs for premium features in larger teams

Best For

Remote or field-based teams requiring detailed proof-of-work and location verification.

Pricing

Free for 1 user; paid plans start at $7/user/month (Basic) up to $20/user/month (Enterprise), billed annually.

Visit Hubstaffhubstaff.com
6
When I Work logo

When I Work

enterprise

When I Work supports shift scheduling and mobile time clock check-ins with notifications for hourly workers.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
8.8/10
Value
7.9/10
Standout Feature

GPS geofencing combined with photo and facial recognition for tamper-proof mobile check-ins

When I Work is a versatile workforce management platform that excels in employee scheduling while offering robust check-in features via its mobile app. Employees can clock in and out with GPS geofencing, photo verification, and facial recognition (in premium plans) to ensure accurate attendance tracking and prevent buddy punching. It integrates time tracking with shift scheduling, real-time notifications, and compliance tools, making it suitable for hourly workforces. Managers gain visibility into who's on-site and can handle time-off requests seamlessly.

Pros

  • GPS geofencing and photo verification for secure, fraud-proof check-ins
  • Intuitive mobile app simplifies clocking in/out for employees
  • Strong integration of check-ins with scheduling and shift swaps

Cons

  • Core check-in features are bundled with broader scheduling tools, which may overwhelm simple needs
  • Advanced verification like facial recognition requires higher-tier plans
  • Reporting and customization can feel limited for complex enterprises

Best For

Small to mid-sized businesses in retail, hospitality, or field services needing integrated scheduling and verified attendance tracking.

Pricing

Free for single-location teams (up to 75 users); Professional plan at $2/user/month; Elite at $3.50/user/month with advanced features.

Visit When I Workwheniwork.com
7
Clockify logo

Clockify

other

Clockify offers unlimited free time tracking with one-click check-ins and reporting for teams of any size.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
7.8/10
Ease of Use
9.2/10
Value
9.5/10
Standout Feature

Kiosk mode for shared devices enabling touchless check-in/out on iPads or tablets

Clockify is a free time tracking tool that doubles as an employee check-in solution through its simple start/stop timers, manual time entries, and dedicated Kiosk mode for shared devices. It enables teams to log work hours across web, desktop, and mobile apps, with customizable projects and detailed attendance reports for payroll and productivity insights. While versatile for basic check-ins, it shines for remote and hybrid teams needing straightforward time logging without complex setup.

Pros

  • Unlimited free plan for any team size with robust time tracking
  • Intuitive one-click timer and Kiosk mode for quick check-ins
  • Comprehensive reports and integrations with payroll tools

Cons

  • Lacks advanced features like geofencing, biometrics, or facial recognition
  • GPS tracking and screenshots require paid Pro plan
  • No native shift scheduling or real-time attendance alerts

Best For

Small to medium businesses seeking a simple, no-cost solution for basic employee check-ins and time tracking in remote or hybrid environments.

Pricing

Free plan for unlimited users; Pro starts at $3.99/user/month (billed annually), with Unlimited and Enterprise tiers for advanced needs.

Visit Clockifyclockify.me
8
Jibble logo

Jibble

specialized

Jibble provides free facial recognition check-ins, GPS tracking, and timesheets for precise employee attendance.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
8.6/10
Ease of Use
9.1/10
Value
9.4/10
Standout Feature

Facial recognition and location selfies for tamper-proof check-ins

Jibble is a comprehensive time tracking and attendance software that allows employees to check in and out via mobile apps, web timers, desktop clients, Slack/Teams bots, or kiosks. It emphasizes secure verification with features like facial recognition, GPS geofencing, location selfies, and screenshot capture to prevent buddy punching and ensure accurate records. The platform provides detailed reports, productivity insights, and integrations with payroll systems like Gusto and QuickBooks.

Pros

  • Generous free plan supporting unlimited users and core check-in features
  • Multiple verification methods including facial recognition and GPS for secure attendance
  • Intuitive mobile-first interface with quick setup and cross-device support

Cons

  • Advanced reporting and custom alerts locked behind paid tiers
  • Some users report occasional mobile app glitches or sync delays
  • Limited scalability for very large enterprises without custom plans

Best For

Small to medium-sized businesses with remote, hybrid, or field teams needing affordable, verifiable employee check-ins.

Pricing

Free forever for unlimited users; Pro at $4.99/user/month; Elite at $6.99/user/month (monthly billing).

Visit Jibblejibble.io
9
Buddy Punch logo

Buddy Punch

specialized

Buddy Punch features photo and facial verification for kiosk and mobile check-ins to prevent buddy punching.

Overall Rating8.3/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
9.1/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Photo capture and facial recognition on every punch to verify employee identity and prevent time theft.

Buddy Punch is a cloud-based time clock software focused on preventing 'buddy punching' through GPS geofencing, photo capture, and facial recognition during clock-ins. Employees can punch in/out via mobile app, web portal, or physical kiosks, with features like scheduling, PTO tracking, and payroll integrations including QuickBooks. It emphasizes simplicity and accuracy for hourly workforce management in small to medium businesses.

Pros

  • Strong anti-fraud measures like photo verification and GPS tracking
  • Intuitive mobile app and quick setup
  • Seamless integrations with payroll systems

Cons

  • Limited advanced reporting in lower tiers
  • No native full payroll processing
  • Support response times can vary

Best For

Small to medium-sized businesses with hourly workers needing reliable, fraud-proof time tracking.

Pricing

Starts at $3.99 per active user/month (Basic), $4.99 (Pro), $6.99 (Elite), billed annually with 14-day free trial.

Visit Buddy Punchbuddypunch.com
10
OnTheClock logo

OnTheClock

other

OnTheClock delivers online time clocks with GPS check-ins, biometric options, and payroll exports for businesses.

Overall Rating7.8/10
Features
7.5/10
Ease of Use
8.5/10
Value
8.8/10
Standout Feature

Photo verification on clock-in/out to confirm employee identity and prevent fraudulent punches

OnTheClock is a cloud-based employee time tracking and check-in software that enables workers to clock in and out via mobile apps, web browsers, kiosks, or QR codes. It offers features like GPS geofencing, photo verification to prevent buddy punching, scheduling, PTO tracking, and integrations with payroll systems such as QuickBooks and Gusto. The platform generates detailed reports for attendance and payroll, making it suitable for accurate time management in small to medium businesses.

Pros

  • Affordable pricing with a free basic plan for small teams
  • User-friendly mobile app and kiosk mode for quick check-ins
  • GPS geofencing and photo capture to reduce time theft

Cons

  • Limited advanced analytics and custom reporting
  • Fewer third-party integrations than enterprise competitors
  • Occasional mobile app glitches reported by users

Best For

Small to medium-sized businesses needing a straightforward, cost-effective solution for employee time tracking and check-ins.

Pricing

Free basic plan; Standard plan at $3.50/user/month (billed annually); Premium at $7.50/user/month with advanced features.

Visit OnTheClockontheclock.com

Conclusion

The reviewed employee check-in software offers diverse solutions, with top-ranked tools distinguishing themselves through key features. Deputy leads as the top choice, excelling in mobile check-in with GPS verification and scheduling, while Connecteam stands out for its all-in-one platform combining check-ins, communication, and task management, and Homebase provides free, user-friendly tools perfect for small to medium teams. Each offers unique strengths, but Deputy clearly emerges as the best overall option.

Deputy logo
Our Top Pick
Deputy

To elevate your team’s attendance tracking and management, start using Deputy today—its intuitive mobile check-in, efficient scheduling, and robust features make it the ideal choice for streamlining operations.