Microsoft Project vs Bench
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Microsoft Project
Microsoft Project is the long-standing enterprise project management standard offering advanced scheduling, resource management, and portfolio tracking. Deep integration with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.
Bench
Bench is a bookkeeping service that combines human bookkeepers with proprietary accounting software. Instead of doing your own bookkeeping, Bench assigns you a dedicated team of bookkeepers who handle everything for you. Bench is designed for small business owners who want professional bookkeeping without having to learn accounting software themselves.
Pros
- ✓Industry standard for complex project scheduling
- ✓Powerful Gantt and resource management
- ✓Deep Microsoft 365 integration
- ✓Strong portfolio management
- ✓Trusted by enterprises globally
Cons
- ✗Steep learning curve
- ✗Expensive licensing
- ✗Feels dated compared to modern tools
- ✗Overkill for simple projects
- ✗Limited real-time collaboration
Pros
- ✓Hands-off bookkeeping — a real human does your books every month
- ✓No accounting knowledge required from the business owner
- ✓Clean and simple software interface
- ✓Tax-ready financials delivered monthly
Cons
- ✗More expensive than DIY accounting software
- ✗Less control over your own books
- ✗Tax filing costs extra
- ✗Not suitable for businesses that want to manage their own accounting
Microsoft Project vs Bench: Side by Side
| Factor | Microsoft Project | Bench |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Project Management | Accounting Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | $299/mo |
| Best For | Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration | Small business owners who want professional bookkeeping without learning accounting software |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Microsoft Project Features
- ✓Project scheduling
- ✓Gantt charts
- ✓resource management
- ✓task tracking
- ✓portfolio management
- ✓reporting
Bench Features
- ✓Dedicated bookkeeper
- ✓monthly bookkeeping
- ✓financial statements
- ✓tax-ready financials
- ✓catch-up bookkeeping
- ✓tax filing add-on
- ✓Bench platform access
- ✓mobile app
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. Choose Bench if small business owners who want professional bookkeeping without learning accounting software.
Best For
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration
Best For
Small business owners who want professional bookkeeping without learning accounting software
Also Consider
If neither Microsoft Project nor Bench is the right fit, Wrike is worth evaluating.
Wrike
Marketing and creative teams needing enterprise project management with approvals and proofing
From Free
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Microsoft Project and Bench?
Microsoft Project is best for enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. Bench is best for small business owners who want professional bookkeeping without learning accounting software.
Which is better, Microsoft Project or Bench?
Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. Choose Bench if small business owners who want professional bookkeeping without learning accounting software.
How much does Microsoft Project cost?
Visit Microsoft Project website for current pricing.
How much does Bench cost?
Bench starts at $299/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Microsoft Project?
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration
Who should use Bench?
Small business owners who want professional bookkeeping without learning accounting software