HONEST COMPARISON

Free 15Five alternative for check-ins, one-on-ones and reviews

If you like the idea of 15Five’s weekly check-ins and one-on-ones but need something free for your own team, you can cover the basics with RoyGroundUp: a one-on-one notebook, a team pulse, a review builder and goals. It is not a company platform, and the comparison below is honest about the gaps.

What 15Five is

15Five is a paid performance management platform built around weekly employee check-ins, with one-on-ones, performance reviews, goals, engagement surveys and manager training for companies.

15Five vs RoyGroundUp, need by need

What you need15FiveRoyGroundUp (free)

Weekly check-insStructured weekly check-ins from each employeeNot automated; use the one-on-one notebook and team pulse

One-on-onesBuilt in, linked to check-insOne-on-one notebook with agendas, notes and actions

Performance reviewsCompany review cyclesReview builder and phrase bank

EngagementCompany engagement surveys and analyticsAnonymous team pulse for one team

Manager trainingManager coaching programmes on some plansFree one-minute lessons and practical guides

CostPaid, per personFree

Choose 15Five if

You want every employee to submit a weekly check-in, with reporting for leaders.
You need company-wide reviews and engagement data in one place.
You want a structured manager training programme bought by the company.

Use the free tools if

You are one manager who wants better one-on-ones and reviews this week.
Your company does not have a platform and is not ready to buy one.
You prefer short lessons and ready-to-use words over another system to log into.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a free version of 15Five?

Plans and trials change. Check the 15Five website for current options and pricing.

Can I run weekly check-ins for free?

A simple way is a short recurring one-on-one with two questions: what went well, and what is getting in the way. The one-on-one notebook keeps these in one place.

Is my team’s pulse anonymous?

Yes. Team pulse answers are not linked to names.

Product details were checked in October 2026 and can change. 15Five is a trademark of its owner; RoyGroundUp is not affiliated with it.