Hashnode vs Medium: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Hashnode and Medium 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: Hashnode wins this matchup. Our overall Blogging Platforms pick is WordPress. Our free Blogging Platforms pick is WordPress. Pick Medium 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:
Hashnode
Blogging platform for developers
Best for you if:
- • You want free custom domain
- • You want good SEO
Medium
Publishing platform for ideas and stories
Best for you if:
- • You want built-in audience
- • You want clean reading experience
| At a Glance | Hashnode | Medium |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Blogging Platforms | Blogging Platforms |
Rating | - | 4.7/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Hashnode or Medium?
Choose Hashnode if
Blogging platform for developers
- You want free custom domain
- You want good SEO
Choose Medium if
Publishing platform for ideas and stories
- You want built-in audience
- You want clean reading experience
- Budget matters (Free vs Free)
| Feature | Hashnode | Medium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.7/5 5,708 reviews |
| Categories | Blogging PlatformsWriting & Content | Blogging PlatformsWriting & Content |
In-Depth Analysis
Hashnode
Blogging platform for developers
Hashnode's pricing is very fair and generous, especially with its robust Free tier.
Strengths
- +Free custom domain
- +Good SEO
- +Developer community
- +Own your content
Weaknesses
- -Limited design options
- -Smaller audience than Medium
- -Technical focus only
Key features
Medium
Publishing platform for ideas and stories
Medium's pricing is quite fair, offering a robust Free tier for creators and a generous Member tier at $5/month for avid readers.
Strengths
- +Built-in audience
- +Clean reading experience
- +Monetization options
- +Easy to publish
Weaknesses
- -Limited customization
- -Medium owns the platform
- -Paywall can limit reach
Key features
Pricing: Hashnode vs Medium
| Plan | Hashnode | Medium |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $9 month Pro | $5 month Member |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Hashnode pricing and Medium pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Hashnode
Want the highest-rated option?
Medium is rated 4.7/5. Hashnode has no ratings yet.
Go with: Medium
Value user reviews?
Hashnode: no ratings yet. Medium: 5,708 reviews (4.7/5).
Go with: Medium
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are blogging platforms tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Medium is rated 4.7/5; Hashnode has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Hashnode
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Medium
- Choose if you want publishing platform for ideas and stories
The Bottom Line
Hashnode wins this matchup. Our overall Blogging Platforms pick is WordPress. Our free Blogging Platforms pick is WordPress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hashnode or Medium better?
Hashnode is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Hashnode and Medium used for?
Hashnode: Blogging platform for developers. Medium: Publishing platform for ideas and stories.
What does Hashnode cost vs Medium?
Hashnode is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Medium is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.