Documentation

Everything you need to connect WakaTime-compatible tooling to Chronova

Last updated January 5, 2026

Platform Installation

Linux

Automatic installation for all Linux distributions

curl -sSL https://chronova.dev/downloads/chronova-cli-installer.sh | sh

macOS

Supports Intel and Apple Silicon Macs

curl -sSL https://chronova.dev/downloads/chronova-cli-installer.sh | sh

Windows

PowerShell script for Windows systems

iwr -Uri https://chronova.dev/downloads/chronova-cli-installer.sh -OutFile install.ps1; ./install.ps1

Migration Guide

1

Backup Existing Data

The installer automatically backs up your existing ~/.wakatime* files before making any changes.

2

Create Compatibility Symlinks

Creates symlinks in ~/.local/bin and ~/.wakatime for seamless WakaTime plugin compatibility.

3

Migrate API Key

Automatically migrates your API key from existing WakaTime configuration files.

4

Maintain Editor Integration

WakaTime plugins continue to work seamlessly with the Chronova CLI through compatibility symlinks.

CLI Setup Guide

1

Install Chronova CLI

Download and install the Chronova CLI using our platform-specific installer.

curl -sSL https://chronova.dev/downloads/chronova-cli-installer.sh | sh
2

Configure API Key

Set your API key from Settings → API in the Chronova dashboard.

chronova-cli config set api_key YOUR_API_KEY
3

Migrate from WakaTime

Automatically transfer your historical data and project mappings from WakaTime.

chronova-cli migrate --from wakatime
4

Verify Connection

Run a sanity check to confirm data is flowing to Chronova.

chronova-cli --today

WakaTime Compatibility

The Chronova CLI maintains full compatibility with WakaTime plugins through automatic symlinks and configuration migration.

Editor Integrations

View All Plugins

Install WakaTime plugins in your editor of choice. They will automatically use the Chronova CLI through compatibility symlinks.

Visual Studio Code

ext install WakaTime.vscode-wakatime

Open the Extensions panel (Ctrl+Shift+X) and search for "WakaTime".

JetBrains IDEs

Settings → Plugins → Marketplace → "WakaTime"

Works with IntelliJ IDEA, PyCharm, WebStorm, PhpStorm, and Rider.

Neovim/Vim

Plug 'wakatime/vim-wakatime'

Add to your plugin manager (vim-plug example shown above).

Sublime Text

Package Control: Install Package → "WakaTime"

Restart Sublime after installation to initialize the plugin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Chronova different from WakaTime?

Chronova is a self-hosted alternative that uses compatible APIs. You maintain full ownership of your time-tracking data while using familiar WakaTime tooling and plugins.

Is Chronova endorsed by WakaTime LLC?

No. Chronova is an independent project. WakaTime® is a registered trademark of WakaTime LLC. All compatibility features are provided solely to help teams migrate.

Can I use both Chronova and WakaTime simultaneously?

Yes. You can configure different editors to send data to different endpoints. Ensure each CLI instance uses the correct API key and endpoint configuration.

What happens to my historical WakaTime data?

The Chronova CLI migration tool can automatically transfer your historical coding data, project mappings, and editor integrations from WakaTime.

Are there any limitations with Chronova?

Chronova supports all core WakaTime features but may not include premium features like team dashboards or advanced analytics available in WakaTime paid plans.

Trademarks

Chronova is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to WakaTime LLC. WakaTime® remains a registered trademark of WakaTime LLC. All compatibility features are provided solely to help teams migrate.

Need help?

Reach out via support@chronova.dev – include CLI output (chronova-cli --today) and editor logs for faster troubleshooting.