Spend less time maintaining a system for the people you care about.
If you love spreadsheets, a DIY tracker can be free and endlessly customisable. If keeping it updated is the very thing you struggle with, a focused app may be easier to stick with.
Two different theories of connection.
For friendship and conversation memory
Choose ConvoMemory if you want to capture a quick memory and have it summarised and organised without designing your own fields, formulas and views.
For networks and contact consolidation
Choose a spreadsheet if you want complete control, custom metrics, bulk editing or a system tailored to your exact preferences.
Concise comparison.
The tracker works - until you stop updating it.
You build a table with one row per friend and columns for last seen, recent news and next follow-up. It works if you keep entering data. ConvoMemory is aimed at making the habit lighter: capture a short blurb after a catch-up and revisit it when you reconnect.
When to choose each app.
Choose ConvoMemory if:
Choose ConvoMemory if you want the app to provide a ready-made memory workflow rather than designing and maintaining a personal database.
Choose A spreadsheet or DIY tracker if:
Choose a spreadsheet if you enjoy customising your own system and want maximum control over fields, formulas and exports.
Your questions answered.
How much effort does it take to save memories?
A spreadsheet can be fast once built, but you must design the system, enter details consistently and maintain reminders. ConvoMemory is designed around short capture and automatic summarisation.
What happens to voice notes and personal data?
ConvoMemory voice notes are processed on-device and original audio is discarded. Spreadsheet privacy depends on the tool, storage location, sharing permissions and account settings. Check those carefully for personal information.
What can you do for free?
A spreadsheet tool may be free or included in a subscription you already pay for. ConvoMemory is free for up to 3 friends, $10/month Premium or $100/year Annual.
What limitations might matter?
ConvoMemory offers less customisation than a spreadsheet and may be unnecessary if your DIY system is already easy to maintain.
Can I build the same thing in a spreadsheet?
You can build a tracker for people, notes and follow-ups. The difference is the time you spend designing and updating it versus using ConvoMemory's built-in memory workflow.
Is ConvoMemory worth paying for if spreadsheets are free?
Only if the dedicated workflow is useful enough to you. Start with the free tier and see whether it helps you remember details and reconnect more consistently.
Can I customise ConvoMemory like my own tracker?
It is designed to be simpler and more focused than a DIY database. If extensive customisation is essential, a spreadsheet may be a better fit.
