MPP Studio vs Merlin Project
Merlin Project is a full project management suite for Apple devices. MPP Studio is a focused editor for Microsoft Project files. Here is how to choose.
Updated 17 October 2026
Quick answer
Merlin Project is a broad project manager that imports .mpp and exports Project XML. MPP Studio edits and saves the .mpp itself. Choose Merlin for breadth, MPP Studio when the .mpp is the file you exchange.
The short answer
Choose Merlin Project if you want one tool for the whole project, from mind map to Kanban, and Microsoft Project exchange is occasional.
Choose MPP Studio if your schedules arrive and leave as .mpp files and you want to edit and track them without converting.
Side by side
| MPP STUDIO | MERLIN PROJECT | |
|---|---|---|
| Opens Microsoft Project files | Opens .mpp directly | Imports .mpp (vendor lists Project 2003 to 2016), XML and MPX |
| Saves back to Project | Saves .mpp | Exports Microsoft Project XML |
| Platforms | Mac and iPad, one purchase | Mac, iPad and iPhone; separate subscriptions per platform |
| Scope | Scheduling and tracking | Gantt, Kanban, mind maps, resources, risks, budgets |
| Price model | App Store (announced at launch) | Subscription; free 30-day trial |
Where Merlin Project is stronger
Breadth. Merlin is a complete project management tool, with Kanban boards, mind maps, risk lists and budgeting. If your plan lives in Merlin and you only occasionally exchange files with Microsoft Project users, it is a strong choice.
Where MPP Studio is stronger
Staying in the .mpp. Merlin imports the file into its own document and sends back Project XML, which the recipient has to open and re-save. MPP Studio edits the .mpp itself and saves an .mpp, so the file goes back exactly as Project users expect. Mac and iPad are included in one purchase.
Switching from Merlin Project
Export your Merlin plan as Microsoft Project XML, then in MPP Studio choose File › Import Microsoft Project XML… and save it as an .mpp. From then on you work in the .mpp directly.
Questions people ask
Can Merlin Project save .mpp files?
Merlin’s documentation lists Microsoft Project XML as its export format for Project, not .mpp.
Can I move a plan from Merlin to MPP Studio?
Yes: export Project XML from Merlin, import it in MPP Studio and save as .mpp.
Try it with your own file
Open a programme you already have and see it exactly as Project saved it.
Related
Microsoft and Microsoft Project are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. MPP Studio is not affiliated with Microsoft. Other product names are trademarks of their owners. Competitor details are taken from their own websites and App Store listings in October 2026; check with the vendor for current prices.