Applitools vs Percy: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Applitools and Percy 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Applitools
Visual AI testing for web and mobile apps
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • Applitools provides AI-powered visual testing for web and mobile applications
- • It automatically detects visual regressions across browsers, devices, and screen sizes
Percy
Visual testing and review
Best for you if:
- • Percy is a visual testing platform for catching UI bugs in CI
- • It captures screenshots and detects visual changes across browsers
| At a Glance |  Applitools | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Testing & QA | Testing & QA |
Rating | 85/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Applitools | Percy |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Testing & QABrowser DevTools | Testing & QABrowser DevTools |
Understanding the Differences
Both Applitools and Percy solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Applitools positions itself as "visual ai testing for web and mobile apps" while Percyfocuses on "visual testing and review". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Applitools
Applitools makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 85/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Percy
Percy is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Applitools lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Applitools
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Applitools handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Applitools
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Applitools
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Applitools, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Applitools higher (85/100). But the community has upvoted Percy more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Applitools Does Better
- Higher overall score (85/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Percy If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Applitools (85/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Applitools scores higher in our analysis, but Percy might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Applitools or Percy better?
Based on our analysis, Applitools scores higher with 85/100. Applitools isfreemium while Percy is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Applitools to Percy easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Applitools and Percy offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Applitools is freemium with a free tier.Percy is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.