OctoPrint vs The Things Network: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between OctoPrint 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:
OctoPrint
Remotely control and monitor your 3D printer from a web browser.
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need automation features specifically
- • Remotely control and monitor your 3D printer.
- • View live webcam feeds of your prints.
The Things Network
Build and scale IoT applications with a global, open LoRaWAN network.
Best for you if:
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- • 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 |  OctoPrint |  The Things Network |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Automation | IoT Platforms |
Rating | — | — |
| Feature | OctoPrint | The Things Network |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AutomationMonitoring | IoT Platforms |
How OctoPrint and The Things Network Compare
OctoPrint
Remotely control and monitor your 3D printer from a web browser.
Free
The Things Network
Build and scale IoT applications with a global, open LoRaWAN network.
Free
OctoPrint is a automation 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: OctoPrint
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: OctoPrint
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: OctoPrint
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?
OctoPrint is a automation 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
OctoPrint
- 0
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
The Things Network
- Better fit for iot platforms
The Bottom Line
OctoPrint is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OctoPrint or The Things Network better?
OctoPrint is rated high in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are OctoPrint and The Things Network used for?
OctoPrint: Remotely control and monitor your 3D printer from a web browser.. The Things Network: Build and scale IoT applications with a global, open LoRaWAN network..
What does OctoPrint cost vs The Things Network?
OctoPrint is completely free. The Things Network is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.