I'm always looking to maximize my efficiency, and it usually involves reducing the time I spend on my phone. I've tried countless Android apps to improve my productivity, but I've always felt that certain tasks, like changing settings or opening apps, are unavoidable, despite taking up my time. I usually stayed away from automation apps because I thought they were unreliable and complicated, but I was proven wrong when I tested MacroDroid for the first time.
Yes, setting macros can be complicated at first, but time is money, and it's worth it in the long run for convenience. It may have taken me a while, but I finally tried the best Android automation app, and it was worth every cent because of these features.
Unlimited Macros
Automate phone functions and tasks
MacroDroid works with a system of triggers, actions, and constraints called macros. Creating basic macros is simple with the user-friendly interface, which provides an extensive list of options to choose from. I'm blown away by the possibilities of what the app can do and have only scratched the surface of its capabilities.
Creating basic macros is simple with the user-friendly interface.
For example, I've created geofence locations representing my home and gym. My phone automatically turns on mobile data when I leave home, opens Spotify, adjusts the volume, and mutes notifications when I enter the gym. The possibilities are endless, and I love experimenting to see what new macros I can create to solve my problems.
Templates
User-friendly presets to get going faster
Some of the more complicated macros are beyond my skill level, which is why I appreciate the Templates feature. Instead of creating macros myself, I find it easier to find ones I want from the Templates list and import them into MacroDroid. Some of the more useful ones I've found can automatically skip YouTube ads or take a selfie if someone inputs the incorrect pin.
Finding MacroDroid templates is easy because they're organized into categories.
Finding MacroDroid templates is easy because they're organized into categories like Top New, Top Rated, or Newest. I also use the search feature to find templates for specific apps, including WhatsApp or YouTube.
Plugins
Universal compatibility with popular apps
One of the reasons why MacroDroid is so powerful is that it integrates with most common apps. I can then set new macros for apps like WhatsApp and Gmail to send messages and emails at a specific time or place, or to change the phone's volume and screen orientation when using Netflix or YouTube.
The Plugins menu lists all compatible apps, so I know what works with MacroDroid and don't have to guess.
The Plugins menu lists all compatible apps, so I know what works with MacroDroid and don't have to guess. It is also convenient because it introduced me to new apps I've never heard of, such as Nova Launcher and Shortcut Maker.
Help options
Get assistance with any issue
Getting the hang of MacroDroid was easier than I expected, in part thanks to its helpful help options. The app includes access to resources such as instructional YouTube videos and a forum with additional information from the user community.
The MacrDroid forum is for more complex functions and includes news of new features, troubleshooting guides, and member discussions.
The YouTube videos are perfect for newbies who want to learn the ropes and cover topics like using action blocks and the stopwatch feature. The MacrDroid forum is for more complex functions and includes news of new features, troubleshooting guides, and member discussions.
I like the Feature Request chat because I see the innovations other users want and contribute with features I'd like to see added to MacroDroid.
Pricing
No subscriptions to worry about
We live in an age of endless subscriptions, and I appreciate great apps that offer excellent features for a one-time payment. MacroDroid offers impressive value, costing around $5 for the full version with unlimited features and no ads. You can also try it for free to see how it works before making a decision, but you'll be limited to just five macros and won't have access to its full feature set.
MacroDroid offers impressive value, costing around $5 for the full version with unlimited features and no ads.
Alternatively, Free Android automation apps, like Samsung's Modes and Routines and Google Pixel's Routines and Rules, will probably get the job done for basic automation tasks. I still think it's worth trying MacroDroid because you can save hours a week for the cost of a cup of coffee.
