Chakra UI vs shadcn/ui: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Chakra UI and shadcn/ui 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:
Chakra UI
React component library
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.5/10 vs 7.2/10)
- • Free open-source React component library with Pro components starting at $149
- • Accessible, modular components with built-in dark mode and WAI-ARIA compliance
shadcn/ui
Beautifully designed, customizable UI components for your design system.
Best for you if:
- • Provides customizable UI components as code, not a library.
- • Offers full control and flexibility for developers to extend components.
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | UI/UX Design | UI/UX Design |
Rating | 75/100 | 72/100 |
| Feature | Chakra UI | shadcn/ui |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 75 | 72 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | UI/UX DesignDesign Systems | UI/UX DesignDesign Systems |
Understanding the Differences
Both Chakra UI and shadcn/ui solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Chakra UI positions itself as "react component library" while shadcn/uifocuses on "beautifully designed, customizable ui components for your design system.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Chakra UI
Chakra UI makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution. With a score of 75/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose shadcn/ui
shadcn/ui is worth considering if you need a free tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Chakra UI lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Chakra UI
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Chakra UI handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Chakra UI
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: Chakra UI
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? Chakra UI is completely free.
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 Chakra UI higher (75/100). But the community has upvoted shadcn/ui more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Chakra UI Does Better
- Higher overall score (75/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider shadcn/ui If
- You need a completely free solution
- 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 Chakra UI (75/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Chakra UI scores higher in our analysis, but shadcn/ui 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 Chakra UI or shadcn/ui better?
Based on our analysis, Chakra UI scores higher with 75/100. Chakra UI isfree while shadcn/ui is free. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Chakra UI to shadcn/ui 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 Chakra UI and shadcn/ui offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Chakra UI is completely free.shadcn/ui is completely free. Visit their websites for current trial offers.