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Hourglass vs PureRef

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

Hourglass icon
Hourglass
PureRef icon
PureRef

Hourglass vs PureRef: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

Hourglass: Hourglass is a lightweight time tracking application for Windows, Mac and Linux. It allows you to track time spent on tasks and projects with features like customizable categories, reports, and productivity analytics.

PureRef: PureRef is a free, lightweight application for Windows that helps artists and designers quickly view visual references without cluttering their workspace. It's useful for keeping photos, drawings, webpages, etc. easily accessible while working on graphics, illustrations, presentations, documents, and more.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Hourglass PureRef
Sugggest Score — —
Category Office & Productivity Photos & Graphics
Pricing Freemium Free

Product Overview

Hourglass
Hourglass

Description: Hourglass is a lightweight time tracking application for Windows, Mac and Linux. It allows you to track time spent on tasks and projects with features like customizable categories, reports, and productivity analytics.

Type: software

Pricing: Freemium

PureRef
PureRef

Description: PureRef is a free, lightweight application for Windows that helps artists and designers quickly view visual references without cluttering their workspace. It's useful for keeping photos, drawings, webpages, etc. easily accessible while working on graphics, illustrations, presentations, documents, and more.

Type: software

Pricing: Free

Key Features Comparison

Hourglass
Hourglass Features
  • Time tracking with start/stop timer
  • Customizable categories and projects
  • Productivity analytics and reports
  • Available on Windows, Mac and Linux
PureRef
PureRef Features
  • Tabbed interface to organize references
  • Resizable panels
  • Zoom and pan images
  • Minimal UI
  • Keyboard shortcuts
  • Search references
  • Fullscreen mode
  • Portable app
  • Dark mode

Pros & Cons Analysis

Hourglass
Hourglass

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to use
  • Great for tracking billable hours
  • Open source and free

Cons

  • Lacks advanced features like invoicing
  • Mobile app only available on Android
  • Can be difficult to organize large projects
PureRef
PureRef

Pros

  • Lightweight and fast
  • Clean and simple interface
  • Easy to use
  • Good for quick reference viewing
  • Free with no ads or limitations

Cons

  • Limited features compared to full reference managers
  • No cloud sync
  • Windows only

Pricing Comparison

Hourglass
Hourglass
  • Freemium
PureRef
PureRef
  • Free

Related Comparisons

Learn More About Each Product

Hourglass
Hourglass
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
PureRef
PureRef
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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