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NetLogo vs NEST Desktop: catalog facts
NetLogo	NEST Desktop
Best for: Students, teachers and researchers exploring agent-based models	Best for: Researchers and educators exploring spiking neuronal network models
Free Free to download and use, with source code published.	Free Free and open source under the MIT license. The EBRAINS-hosted version requires a free EBRAINS account.
Windows, macOS, Linux, Web	Linux, Web
Simple language designed for learners Desktop and browser versions All 4 strengths for NetLogo Simple language designed for learners Desktop and browser versions Extensive documentation, sample models and tutorials Active community with an annual conference	Builds spiking neuronal networks without writing simulator code Displays network activity in graphs and tables All 3 strengths for NEST Desktop Builds spiking neuronal networks without writing simulator code Displays network activity in graphs and tables Exports visualizations for course materials
Large models can run slowly compared with general-purpose simulation code Its own language must be learned	NEST Simulator or another compatible simulator is required to execute networks. The EBRAINS-hosted version requires a free account.
Downloadable app, Web application	Downloadable app, Web application
Open source	Open source
License: GPL-2.0	License: MIT
No account needed	Account needed
Offline features available	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for NetLogo netlogo.org Catalog checked October 2, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for NEST Desktop nest-desktop.github.io Catalog checked October 8, 2026

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