htmx vs Alpine.js: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between htmx and Alpine.js 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:
htmx
High power tools for HTML, enabling modern UIs with simplicity and hypertext.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.3/10 vs 8.1/10)
- • You need ui/ux design features specifically
- • Extends HTML with AJAX, WebSockets, and CSS Transitions via attributes.
- • Enables dynamic UIs with less JavaScript and smaller codebases.
Alpine.js
Lightweight JavaScript framework
Best for you if:
- • You need ide & code editors features specifically
- • Lightweight framework
- • HTML interactivity
| At a Glance |  htmx |  Alpine.js |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | UI/UX Design | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 83/100 | 81/100 |
| Feature | htmx | Alpine.js |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 83 | 81 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | UI/UX DesignIDE & Code Editors | IDE & Code EditorsBrowser DevTools |
How htmx and Alpine.js Compare
htmx
High power tools for HTML, enabling modern UIs with simplicity and hypertext.
Free · 83/100 score
Alpine.js
Lightweight JavaScript framework
Free · 81/100 score
htmx is a ui/ux design tool. Alpine.js is in ide & code editors.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: htmx
Want the highest-rated option?
htmx: 83/100. Alpine.js: 81/100.
Go with: htmx
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: htmx
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?
htmx is a ui/ux design tool. Alpine.js is in ide & code editors. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
htmx scores higher: 83/100 vs 81/100.
Key Takeaways
htmx
- Higher score: 83/100 vs 81
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Alpine.js
- Better fit for ide & code editors
The Bottom Line
htmx (83/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is htmx or Alpine.js better?
htmx scores 83/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are htmx and Alpine.js used for?
htmx: High power tools for HTML, enabling modern UIs with simplicity and hypertext.. Alpine.js: Lightweight JavaScript framework.
What does htmx cost vs Alpine.js?
htmx is completely free. Alpine.js is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.