One of the most exhausting parts of maintaining a long-distance relationship isn't the distance itself—it's the constant logistical coordination.
Between work schedules, social commitments, family obligations, and possibly even different time zones, finding windows to connect can feel like solving a Rubik's Cube blindfolded.
Sure, you could use Google Calendar, but TimeTree was built specifically for this kind of shared planning, and the difference is immediately apparent.
TimeTree gives mutual scheduling an upgrade:
- Available for Apple and Google.
- Free and premium versions available.
- Syncs with existing iOS and Android calendars.
Looking for more relationship-enhancing tools? We feature apps like this in our monthly best new apps guide.
TimeTree saves calendar coordination from being a chore
This app centers around a shared calendar that both partners can view and edit in real time. But unlike basic shared calendars, TimeTree adds layers of functionality designed specifically for couples who need to stay aligned despite being physically apart.
Image: Kevin Kearney | WhistleOut
Creating an event is straightforward. Just add a title, date, time, and location. Where TimeTree gets clever is what happens next—each event comes with its own dedicated chat room, letting you discuss details without cluttering your main messages. Planning a video call for Thursday? The event's chat room is where you coordinate whether to order dinner at the same time or what movie to queue up afterward.
Shared to-do lists make organization smooth
The shared to-do lists are another standout feature. You can create tasks related to upcoming visits—"book flight," "request time off work," "find dog sitter"—and check them off as you go. Seeing your partner complete tasks for your next get-together adds a tangible sense of shared effort that plain calendar apps simply can't capture.
TimeTree syncs seamlessly with your device's default calendar, pulling in your existing events so you don't have to maintain two separate systems. Your partner can see when you have important work meetings or family commitments, making it easier to find mutually free windows for quality time. The app automatically adjusts for time zones, which is crucial if you're coordinating between, say, California and London.
Can your phone keep up with your app addiction?
Running multiple relationship apps simultaneously—messaging, calendars, video calls—can push older phones to their limits. If your device lags during video calls or can't handle having several apps open at once, it might be time for an upgrade.
Check out the most popular flagship phones that can handle anything you throw at them:
How TimeTree performs in my day-to-day use
I've been using TimeTree for three months, and it's eliminated the "are you free on Thursday?" dance that used to eat up so much of our texting. I can glance at the calendar, see my partner's schedule, and propose times that actually work for both of us. The visual layout makes conflicts obvious immediately, saving us from the frustration of scheduling a call only to realize she has a dentist appointment.
The interface is clean and intuitive, though it does take a bit of setup if you're merging multiple calendars. There are lots of customization options, too. You can color-code events, set custom notifications, and choose different calendar views. Some users might find this overwhelming initially, but spending 15 minutes configuring things to your preferences pays dividends in daily use.
Minor notification quirks
Where TimeTree stumbles slightly is in notifications. By default, you'll get alerts for every event your partner adds, which can feel excessive if they're more calendar-enthusiastic than you are.
Fortunately, notification settings are granular enough that you can dial it back without losing important updates. This is a minor inconvenience, not a dealbreaker, but it does require some adjustment.
Download TimeTree now
The app is free, with a premium tier priced at $44.99/year. For couples serious about making their limited time together count, TimeTree is an essential tool. It won't make the distance disappear, but it will make coordinating through it significantly less stressful.
TimeTree: FAQs
How WhistleOut reviews apps
Our mobile experts scour the app stores, looking for the best new apps for Android and iPhone. Before recommending an app, we use the app for at least one full workday, testing its basic functionality and evaluating whether or not it delivers on its promises.
- Easy to use
Great apps simplify your phone. We selected the tools that don't require a complicated instructional manual. - Affordability
The internet is filled with expensive price tags, but we're not buying what they're selling. We leaned into inexpensive, quality apps. Extra points if they're free! - Hands-on testing
We played around with these before recommending them, ensuring they're worth your download.
From there, we weigh the app's pros and cons and then determine whether or not it's a worthwhile download for the wider population of cell phone users.
Jessica Santero
Staff Writer