Node-RED vs The Things Network: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Node-RED and The Things Network 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 May 6, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Node-RED
Flow-based programming for IoT
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • Node-RED is a flow-based programming tool for wiring IoT and APIs
- • It creates automation flows with a visual browser-based editor
The Things Network
Build and scale IoT applications with a global, open LoRaWAN network.
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need iot platforms features specifically
- • Provides an open, global LoRaWAN network for IoT applications.
- • Offers tools and resources for managing devices, gateways, and data.
| At a Glance |  Node-RED |  The Things Network |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | IoT Platforms |
Rating | — | — |
| Feature | Node-RED | The Things Network |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendAutomation | IoT Platforms |
How Node-RED and The Things Network Compare
Node-RED
Flow-based programming for IoT
Free
The Things Network
Build and scale IoT applications with a global, open LoRaWAN network.
Free
Node-RED is a low-code backend tool. The Things Network is in iot platforms.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Node-RED
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Node-RED
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Node-RED
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?
Node-RED is a low-code backend tool. The Things Network is in iot platforms. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Node-RED
- 0
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
The Things Network
- Better fit for iot platforms
The Bottom Line
Node-RED is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Node-RED or The Things Network better?
Node-RED is rated high in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Node-RED and The Things Network used for?
Node-RED: Flow-based programming for IoT. The Things Network: Build and scale IoT applications with a global, open LoRaWAN network..
What does Node-RED cost vs The Things Network?
Node-RED is completely free. The Things Network is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.