Compare software

Roam ResearchTheBrain
Paid

Paid subscription; current plans are listed on the Roam Research site.

 Free

The desktop app is free according to the developer's site.

Web Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Linked notes for building a graph of ideas
  • Outline-style writing that feels like a bulleted list
  • Ideas can link to many contexts without duplication
  • Long-developed product with a large user base
  • Little detail is published on the homepage
  • Proprietary with no open-source version
  • Network-style interface takes time to learn
  • Not open source
Web application, Hosted service Downloadable app
Closed source Closed source
License not stated License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline Not stated if it works offline

Checked September 23, 2026

Checked October 2, 2026

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