Outline vs AFFiNE: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Outline and AFFiNE 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:
Outline
Open-source knowledge base
Best for you if:
- • You need documentation features specifically
- • Outline is an open-source knowledge base for growing teams
- • It provides beautiful docs with real-time collaboration and Slack integration
AFFiNE
Unified knowledge OS
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.1/10 vs 7.5/10)
- • You need whiteboard features specifically
- • Open-source Notion alternative
- • Privacy-first workspace
| At a Glance |  Outline |  AFFiNE |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Documentation | Whiteboard |
Rating | 75/100 | 81/100 |
| Feature | Outline | AFFiNE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 75 | 81 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 146 |
| Categories | DocumentationInternal Comms | WhiteboardNote-Taking |
How Outline and AFFiNE Compare
Outline
Open-source knowledge base
Free tier available · 75/100 score
AFFiNE
Unified knowledge OS
Free tier available · 81/100 score
Outline is a documentation tool. AFFiNE is in whiteboard.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Outline
Want the highest-rated option?
Outline: 75/100. AFFiNE: 81/100.
Go with: AFFiNE
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: AFFiNE
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?
Outline is a documentation tool. AFFiNE is in whiteboard. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
AFFiNE scores higher: 81/100 vs 75/100.
Key Takeaways
AFFiNE
- Higher score: 81/100 vs 75
- More community upvotes (146)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Outline
- Better fit for documentation
The Bottom Line
AFFiNE (81/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Outline or AFFiNE better?
AFFiNE scores 81/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Outline and AFFiNE used for?
Outline: Open-source knowledge base. AFFiNE: Unified knowledge OS.
What does Outline cost vs AFFiNE?
Outline is freemium (free tier + paid plans). AFFiNE is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.