NotebookLM vs Craft: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between NotebookLM and Craft 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:
NotebookLM
Your AI-powered research assistant for organizing and synthesizing information from your sources.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need ai research features specifically
- • AI-powered assistant for personal research and note-taking.
- • Upload various document types (PDFs, Google Docs, web pages) as sources.
Craft
Beautiful documents and notes
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need note-taking features specifically
- • Beautiful notes app for Apple
- • Block-based document editing
| At a Glance |  NotebookLM |  Craft |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | AI Research | Note-Taking |
Rating | —/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | NotebookLM | Craft |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AI ResearchNote-Taking | Note-TakingWriting Apps |
Understanding the Differences
Both NotebookLM and Craft solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.NotebookLM positions itself as "your ai-powered research assistant for organizing and synthesizing information from your sources." while Craftfocuses on "beautiful documents and notes". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose NotebookLM
NotebookLM makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution.
When to Choose Craft
Craft is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool. Scoring 85/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, NotebookLM lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: NotebookLM
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Craft is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Craft
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Craft
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? NotebookLM is completely free.
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 Craft higher (85/100). But the community has upvoted Craft more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Craft Does Better
- Higher overall score (85/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider NotebookLM If
- You need a completely free solution
- 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 Craft (85/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Craft scores higher in our analysis, but NotebookLM 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 NotebookLM or Craft better?
Based on our analysis, Craft scores higher with 85/100. NotebookLM isfree while Craft is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from NotebookLM to Craft 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 NotebookLM and Craft offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. NotebookLM is completely free.Craft is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.