WhenWorks vs Zcal
An honest comparison. They solve different problems.
| Feature | WhenWorks | Zcal |
|---|---|---|
| Primary use case | Group availability — find mutual time | 1:1 booking — share your calendar |
| Sign-up to respond | Not required | Not required |
| Group scheduling | Yes — core feature | Limited |
| Free tier | 3 polls/month | Limited (1 event type) |
| Calendar connection required | No | Yes (to show availability) |
| Setup time | 30 seconds | 5–15 minutes |
| Branded booking page | Pro feature | Yes (core feature) |
| Mobile voting | Optimized PWA | Responsive |
| Works without calendar app | Yes | No |
| Ads | None | None |
Why teams use WhenWorks
Built for Groups, Not Just 1:1
Zcal is a booking tool — people pick from your available slots. WhenWorks is a group scheduling tool — everyone votes and you find the overlap. Different jobs, different tools.
No Calendar Connection Needed
Zcal requires you to connect your calendar to show availability. WhenWorks works without it — create a poll with your proposed times and let people vote.
Faster to Create
A WhenWorks poll takes 30 seconds. A zcal booking page requires connecting a calendar, configuring event types, setting buffers, and customizing availability. Right tool for the right job.
Optimized for Mobile Voting
Your group responds from their phones. WhenWorks is designed for mobile-first voting — large touch targets, drag-to-select, instant feedback.
No Ads, No Tracking
WhenWorks is free with no ads and no behavioral tracking. Your scheduling data is used to run the service, nothing else.
Works When You Don't Know Your Schedule
Zcal assumes you know your availability in advance. WhenWorks works when the organizer's schedule is also uncertain — everyone marks what works and the best time surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is zcal?
Zcal (zcal.co) is a free scheduling tool primarily designed for 1:1 appointment booking. Users connect their calendar and share a booking link so others can schedule time with them. It competes with Calendly in the individual booking space.
When should I use WhenWorks instead of zcal?
Use WhenWorks when you need to find a time that works for multiple people. Use zcal when you want others to book individual appointments on your calendar. If you're scheduling a team meeting, study group, or event where everyone's availability matters, WhenWorks is the right tool.
Is WhenWorks free like zcal?
Yes. WhenWorks free tier includes 3 polls per month with no credit card required. Pro is $6/month for unlimited polls, reminders, and calendar sync.
Does WhenWorks have a booking page like zcal?
Not in the same way. WhenWorks creates scheduling polls where participants vote on availability. It doesn't create a persistent booking page tied to your calendar. For individual appointment booking, zcal or Calendly are better fits. For group scheduling, WhenWorks is purpose-built.