🤝 no affiliate links · no paid placements · every entry lists honest trade-offs · updated 2026-08

Trello Standard alternatives

Killing $5/user/mo (~$60/yr) — here are 2 verified escapes, honest trade-offs included.

the answer easy migration
Kanboard · Free self-host ⭐ 9.8K stars

Dead-simple kanban that runs on a $4 VPS — zero JavaScript framework bloat.

you stop paying $5/user/mo → keep ~$60/yr

head-to-head

Kanboard
price Free self-host
self-hostable yes
license MIT
verified 2026-08
migration easy effort

free & open source (2)

Kanboard oss ⭐ 9.8K self-host MIT
Free self-host

Dead-simple kanban that runs on a $4 VPS — zero JavaScript framework bloat.

trade-offs: Dated UI · Fewer integrations

github →
Wekan oss ⭐ 21.1K self-host MIT
Free self-host

Open-source Trello clone with swimlanes, checklists, and card templates.

trade-offs: Performance dips on huge boards

github →

migration guide

Trello boards → Wekan, JSON intact

⏱ ~1 hour
  1. Per board: Menu → Print/Export → JSON.
  2. Stand up Wekan (docker or snap) — or Kanboard if you prefer minimal.
  3. Wekan imports Trello JSON boards natively: cards, lists, members, attachments.
  4. Butler automations do NOT port — rebuild your top 3 rules as Wekan swimlane rules or zap-free habits.
  5. Verify board-by-board, then delete the Trello workspace.
  6. Cancel Standard before renewal.
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faq

What is the best free alternative to Trello Standard?

Kanboard is the top free option — Dead-simple kanban that runs on a $4 VPS — zero JavaScript framework bloat.

How much can I save by switching from Trello Standard?

Trello Standard costs $5/user/mo, so switching to a free alternative saves roughly $60/year per seat.

Can Trello Standard be self-hosted?

Yes — Kanboard and Wekan can be self-hosted for free.