ReadMe vs GitBook: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between ReadMe and GitBook 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:
ReadMe
Developer documentation platform
Best for you if:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Developer documentation platform with API reference sync
- • Interactive API explorer from OpenAPI specs
GitBook
Documentation for technical teams
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.5/10)
- • You need documentation features specifically
- • Documentation platform for technical teams with Git integration
- • Clean editor with code-friendly formatting options
| At a Glance |  ReadMe |  GitBook |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | Documentation |
Rating | 85/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | ReadMe | GitBook |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsDocumentation | DocumentationWriting Apps |
How ReadMe and GitBook Compare
ReadMe
Developer documentation platform
Free tier available · 85/100 score
GitBook
Documentation for technical teams
Free tier available · 86/100 score
ReadMe is a api tools tool. GitBook is in documentation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: ReadMe
Want the highest-rated option?
ReadMe: 85/100. GitBook: 86/100.
Go with: GitBook
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: GitBook
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?
ReadMe is a api tools tool. GitBook is in documentation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
GitBook scores higher: 86/100 vs 85/100.
Key Takeaways
GitBook
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 85
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
ReadMe
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
GitBook (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ReadMe or GitBook better?
GitBook scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are ReadMe and GitBook used for?
ReadMe: Developer documentation platform. GitBook: Documentation for technical teams.
What does ReadMe cost vs GitBook?
ReadMe is freemium (free tier + paid plans). GitBook is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.