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TheBrain vs Scapple: catalog facts
TheBrain	Scapple
Free The desktop app is free according to the developer's site.	Paid One-time purchase, with a free trial available.
Windows, macOS, Linux	Windows, macOS
Ideas can link to many contexts without duplication Long-developed product with a large user base	Notes can go anywhere with no forced central topic Connections made by dragging one note onto another
Network-style interface takes time to learn Not open source	Paid after the trial No Linux or mobile versions mentioned
Downloadable app	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	Works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Checked October 2, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked October 1, 2026

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