DrChrono vs Open Dental: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between DrChrono and Open Dental 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:
DrChrono
The all-in-one EHR system designed to streamline medical practice operations and enhance patient care.
Best for you if:
- • You need ehr/emr features specifically
- • All-in-one EHR, practice management, and medical billing system.
- • Offers mobile EHR for Apple devices and customizable workflows for over 20 specialties.
Open Dental
Comprehensive, customizable, and affordable practice management software for dental offices of any size.
Best for you if:
- • You need practice management features specifically
- • Comprehensive dental practice management software.
- • Highly customizable with extensive features for clinical and administrative tasks.
| At a Glance |  DrChrono |  Open Dental |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | EHR/EMR | Practice Management |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | DrChrono | Open Dental |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | EHR/EMRPractice Management | Practice ManagementEHR/EMR |
Understanding the Differences
Both DrChrono and Open Dental solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.DrChrono positions itself as "the all-in-one ehr system designed to streamline medical practice operations and enhance patient care." while Open Dentalfocuses on "comprehensive, customizable, and affordable practice management software for dental offices of any size.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose DrChrono
DrChrono makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution.
When to Choose Open Dental
Open Dental is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Neither is free, but both have their value. Test them both and see which clicks.
We'd pick: Open Dental
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Open Dental is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Open Dental
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. DrChrono is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: DrChrono
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Both are paid tools. If money isn't the issue, go with DrChrono—it scored higher.
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 DrChrono higher (/100). But the community has upvoted Open Dental more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What DrChrono Does Better
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Open Dental If
- 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 DrChrono. But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. DrChrono scores higher in our analysis, but Open Dental 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 DrChrono or Open Dental better?
Based on our analysis, DrChrono scores higher with high/100. DrChrono ispaid while Open Dental is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from DrChrono to Open Dental 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 DrChrono and Open Dental offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. DrChrono is paid with potential trial.Open Dental is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.