Apiary vs ReadMe: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Apiary and ReadMe comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Apiary
API documentation platform
Best for you if:
- • You need prototyping features specifically
- • Apiary is an API design platform for creating and documenting APIs using API Blueprint format
- • It generates interactive documentation, mock servers, and testing environments from your spec
ReadMe
Developer documentation platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.1/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Developer documentation platform with API reference sync
- • Interactive API explorer from OpenAPI specs
| At a Glance |  ReadMe | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Prototyping | API Tools |
Rating | 81/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Apiary | ReadMe |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 81 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | PrototypingAPI Tools | API ToolsDocumentation |
How Apiary and ReadMe Compare
Apiary
API documentation platform
Free tier available · 81/100 score
ReadMe
Developer documentation platform
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Apiary is a prototyping tool. ReadMe is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Apiary
Want the highest-rated option?
Apiary: 81/100. ReadMe: 85/100.
Go with: ReadMe
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: ReadMe
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Apiary is a prototyping tool. ReadMe is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
ReadMe scores higher: 85/100 vs 81/100.
Key Takeaways
ReadMe
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 81
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Apiary
- Better fit for prototyping
The Bottom Line
ReadMe (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Apiary or ReadMe better?
ReadMe scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Apiary and ReadMe used for?
Apiary: API documentation platform. ReadMe: Developer documentation platform.
What does Apiary cost vs ReadMe?
Apiary is freemium (free tier + paid plans). ReadMe is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.