Compare software

MyNode vs Core Lightning: catalog facts
MyNodeCore Lightning

Best for: Running a personal Bitcoin and Lightning node without assembling the software yourself

Best for: Lightning node operators who want a customisable, plugin-based node

Free + paid options

Free Community Edition; Premium software, subscriptions and hardware are paid.

Free

Free and open source.

Web, Self-hosted Self-hosted, Command line
  • Bitcoin and Lightning node managed from one web interface
  • Many bundled apps such as Mempool, BTCPay Server and Thunderhub
All 4 strengths for MyNode
  • Bitcoin and Lightning node managed from one web interface
  • Many bundled apps such as Mempool, BTCPay Server and Thunderhub
  • Tor and VPN options for remote access
  • One-click software updates
  • Modular design with plugins in any language
  • Supports dual-funded channels
All 3 strengths for Core Lightning
  • Modular design with plugins in any language
  • Supports dual-funded channels
  • Privacy features such as multi-part payments and blinded paths
  • Some features are limited to the paid Premium edition
  • Needs dedicated hardware with room for the Bitcoin blockchain
  • Blinded payment paths are still experimental
  • Requires a Bitcoin node and command-line setup
Downloadable app, Self-hosted, Operating system Downloadable app, Self-hosted
Not open source Open source
License not stated License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed No account needed
Not stated if it works offline Not stated if it works offline
Sources for MyNode

Catalog checked September 23, 2026

Sources for Core Lightning

Catalog checked September 23, 2026

“Not stated” means we have not confirmed it. Features can vary by device and plan.