Outline vs Bettermode: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Outline and Bettermode 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
Bettermode
Community platform with forums and knowledge base
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.1/10 vs 7.5/10)
- • You need community platforms features specifically
- • Bettermode is a community platform for building branded customer communities
- • It provides forums, Q&A, idea boards, and member directories with customization
| At a Glance |  Outline |  Bettermode |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Documentation | Community Platforms |
Rating | 75/100 | 81/100 |
| Feature | Outline | Bettermode |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 75 | 81 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | DocumentationInternal Comms | Community PlatformsKnowledge Base |
How Outline and Bettermode Compare
Outline
Open-source knowledge base
Free tier available · 75/100 score
Bettermode
Community platform with forums and knowledge base
Free tier available · 81/100 score
Outline is a documentation tool. Bettermode is in community platforms.
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. Bettermode: 81/100.
Go with: Bettermode
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Bettermode
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. Bettermode is in community platforms. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Bettermode scores higher: 81/100 vs 75/100.
Key Takeaways
Bettermode
- Higher score: 81/100 vs 75
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Outline
- Better fit for documentation
The Bottom Line
Bettermode (81/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Outline or Bettermode better?
Bettermode scores 81/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Outline and Bettermode used for?
Outline: Open-source knowledge base. Bettermode: Community platform with forums and knowledge base.
What does Outline cost vs Bettermode?
Outline is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Bettermode is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.