Detox vs Appium: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Detox and Appium 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:
Detox
End-to-end testing for React Native apps
Best for you if:
- • Detox is an end-to-end testing framework for React Native mobile applications
- • It runs tests on real devices and simulators with automatic synchronization and gray-box testing
Appium
Automate mobile app testing across platforms
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.0/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • Appium is an open-source test automation framework for native, hybrid, and mobile web apps
- • It uses the WebDriver protocol to automate iOS and Android apps with any programming language
| At a Glance |  Detox |  Appium |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Testing & QA | Testing & QA |
Rating | 78/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Detox | Appium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 78 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Testing & QAAutomation | Testing & QAAutomation |
How Detox and Appium Compare
Detox
End-to-end testing for React Native apps
Free · 78/100 score
Appium
Automate mobile app testing across platforms
Free · 80/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Detox
Want the highest-rated option?
Detox: 78/100. Appium: 80/100.
Go with: Appium
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Appium
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are testing & qa tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Appium scores higher: 80/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
Appium
- Higher score: 80/100 vs 78
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Detox
The Bottom Line
Appium (80/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Detox or Appium better?
Appium scores 80/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Detox and Appium used for?
Detox: End-to-end testing for React Native apps. Appium: Automate mobile app testing across platforms.
What does Detox cost vs Appium?
Detox is completely free. Appium is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.