marketing

ClickUp vs. Milanote: A Deep Dive into Misleading Ads and Manipulative Marketing

Hazem Abbas

Apr 9, 2025 — 5 min read

Table of Content

Let me start by saying this—I use both ClickUp and Milanote , and they’re fantastic tools. But here’s the thing: they’re completely different . While ClickUp is a powerhouse for task management, team collaboration, and productivity workflows, Milanote shines as a creative brainstorming tool for mood boards, mind maps, and visual planning. They cater to different audiences, solve different problems, and honestly, they don’t even compete head-to-head in most cases.

But then, something weird happened. I was searching for Milanote on Google (because I wanted to check out their pricing or features again), and guess what popped up as the first result ? A ClickUp ad screaming, “Milanote is expensive! Try ClickUp instead! ”

Wait…what?

The Sneaky Marketing Tactic That Left Me Scratching My Head

Here’s how it works: ClickUp bids on keywords like “Milanote” in Google Ads, ensuring that when you search for Milanote, their ad appears at the top of the page. The ad doesn’t really compare the two platforms—it just plants doubt in your mind by implying Milanote is overpriced without giving any substantial information about why ClickUp would be a better alternative.

And here’s the kicker—the landing page linked from the ad barely mentions Milanote. It’s more of a generic sales pitch for ClickUp, which feels disingenuous. If you’re looking for Milanote specifically, this kind of tactic can feel manipulative.

Why This Feels Unethical

As someone who appreciates transparency in marketing, this approach rubs me the wrong way. Here’s why:

Misleading Intent : When I search for Milanote, I’m not looking for ClickUp—I’m looking for Milanote . By hijacking search results, ClickUp interrupts my intent rather than genuinely offering value.
False Comparisons : Milanote and ClickUp aren’t direct competitors. Sure, they both help with organization, but one focuses on creativity and visuals, while the other is all about productivity and task management. Saying “Milanote is expensive, so try ClickUp” is like saying, “This hammer is pricey, so buy a screwdriver instead.” They’re solving entirely different problems!
Trust Erosion : Tactics like these might drive short-term clicks, but they erode trust in the long run. As users become more aware of these sneaky strategies, brands risk alienating potential customers who value authenticity.

Both Tools Deserve Recognition—They’re Not Competitors!

I’ll say it again: ClickUp and Milanote are NOT interchangeable.

ClickUp is my go-to for managing projects, assigning tasks, tracking time, and keeping teams aligned. It’s robust, customizable, and packed with features that make it indispensable for productivity junkies.
Milanote , on the other hand, is where I turn when I need to brainstorm ideas, create mood boards, or visually map out concepts. Its drag-and-drop interface and focus on aesthetics make it perfect for creatives and designers.

They complement each other beautifully, and I honestly can’t imagine replacing one with the other. So why pit them against each other in ads?

What Should Brands Like ClickUp Do Instead?

Instead of resorting to sneaky tactics, companies should focus on highlighting their unique strengths . For example:

Run ads targeting people who are actually looking for task management tools or project management software—not those searching for creative brainstorming apps.
Provide clear, honest comparisons if they want to position themselves against another tool. Transparency builds trust.
Respect user intent. If someone searches for Milanote, let them find Milanote. Focus on winning customers who are already interested in what you offer.

Final Thoughts: Let’s Keep Marketing Honest

At the end of the day, both ClickUp and Milanote are incredible tools that serve distinct purposes. There’s room for both in the market, and there’s no need for sneaky tactics to win customers.

To ClickUp: You don’t need to resort to underhanded strategies to grow. Your product speaks for itself. To Milanote: Keep doing what you’re doing—you’ve earned your spot in the hearts of creatives everywhere.

And to everyone else: Be mindful of how ads shape your perception. Sometimes, the best tool for the job isn’t the one shouting the loudest—it’s the one that truly fits your needs.