AS Notes vs Roam Research: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between AS Notes and Roam Research 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.
Bottom line: Roam Research wins this matchup. Granola ranks #1 on our Note-Taking list. Granola is the highest-listed Note-Taking tool with a free plan. Pick AS Notes if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
AS Notes
Powerful note-taking for developers, integrated directly into VS Code with markdown and wikilinks.
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
- • You want keeps notes directly within the VS Code editor, reducing context switching
- • You want uses standard Markdown files, preventing vendor lock-in and ensuring portability
Roam Research
A note-taking tool for networked thought
Best for you if:
- • You want powerful linking
- • You want daily notes workflow
| At a Glance | AS Notes | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $15/moPro Monthly |
Best For | Note-Taking | Note-Taking |
Rating | - | 4.8/5G2 4.8 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose AS Notes or Roam Research?
Choose AS Notes if
Powerful note-taking for developers, integrated directly into VS Code with markdown and wikilinks.
- You want a free tier before you commit
- You want keeps notes directly within the VS Code editor, reducing context switching
- You want uses standard Markdown files, preventing vendor lock-in and ensuring portability
Choose Roam Research if
A note-taking tool for networked thought
- You want powerful linking
- You want daily notes workflow
| Feature | AS Notes | Roam Research |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.8/5 121 reviews |
| Categories | Note-TakingIDE & Code Editors | Note-TakingProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
AS Notes
Powerful note-taking for developers, integrated directly into VS Code with markdown and wikilinks.
The pricing for AS Notes is exceptionally generous, offering a powerful Free tier and a Pro Editor lifetime license for a one-time payment of $18.
Strengths
- +Keeps notes directly within the VS Code editor, reducing context switching.
- +Uses standard Markdown files, preventing vendor lock-in and ensuring portability.
- +Supports powerful linking of ideas with wikilinks and backlinks.
- +Includes task management and daily journal features for integrated workflow.
- +One-time purchase for Pro Editor features, no subscription required.
Weaknesses
- -Primarily focused on VS Code and compatible editors, limiting use for those outside this ecosystem.
- -Advanced features like Kanban and static site publishing are only available in the paid Pro Editor version.
Key features
Roam Research
A note-taking tool for networked thought
Roam Research's pricing is on the expensive side compared to many note-taking tools, with the Pro Monthly at $15 and Pro Annual at $165.
Strengths
- +Powerful linking
- +Daily notes workflow
- +Block references
Weaknesses
- -Expensive
- -Learning curve
Key features
Pricing: AS Notes vs Roam Research
| Plan | AS Notes | Roam Research |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 forever Free | $15 Pro Monthly |
| Tier 2 | $18 one-time Pro Editor | $165 Pro Annual |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $500 Believer |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on AS Notes pricing and Roam Research pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
AS Notes has a free tier. Roam Research is paid only.
Go with: AS Notes
Want the highest-rated option?
Roam Research is rated 4.8/5. AS Notes has no ratings yet.
Go with: Roam Research
Value user reviews?
AS Notes: no ratings yet. Roam Research: 121 reviews (4.8/5).
Go with: Roam Research
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
AS Notes is freemium. Roam Research is paid. AS Notes lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are note-taking tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Roam Research is rated 4.8/5; AS Notes has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Roam Research
- Our pick for this comparison
AS Notes
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Roam Research wins this matchup. Granola ranks #1 on our Note-Taking list. Granola is the highest-listed Note-Taking tool with a free plan. AS Notes has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AS Notes or Roam Research better?
Roam Research is rated in our evaluation. AS Notes is freemium and Roam Research is paid.
What are AS Notes and Roam Research used for?
AS Notes: Powerful note-taking for developers, integrated directly into VS Code with markdown and wikilinks.. Roam Research: A note-taking tool for networked thought.
What does AS Notes cost vs Roam Research?
AS Notes is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Roam Research is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.