Compare software

Google ScholarOpenAlex
Free

Free to use.

 Free

Free to search, analyze and reuse.

Web Web
  • Very broad coverage across disciplines
  • Includes case law and court opinions
  • Covers about half a billion scholarly works
  • Web app, API and bulk download
  • Library, alerts and profiles need a Google account
  • Can throttle automated or heavy use
  • A search catalog rather than an AI reading assistant
  • Analysis beyond the web app needs API or data skills
Web application Web application, Hosted service
Closed source Closed source
License not stated License not stated
No account needed Not stated if an account is needed
Needs internet Not stated if it works offline

Checked September 26, 2026

Checked October 1, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.