Redocly vs ReadMe: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Redocly and ReadMe 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:
Redocly
API documentation and developer portal
Best for you if:
- • You need design systems features specifically
- • Redocly is an API documentation platform with developer portals
- • It creates beautiful API docs from OpenAPI specs with customization
ReadMe
Developer documentation platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.3/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Developer documentation platform with API reference sync
- • Interactive API explorer from OpenAPI specs
| At a Glance |  ReadMe | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Design Systems | API Tools |
Rating | 83/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Redocly | ReadMe |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 83 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Design SystemsAPI Tools | API ToolsDocumentation |
How Redocly and ReadMe Compare
Redocly
API documentation and developer portal
Free tier available · 83/100 score
ReadMe
Developer documentation platform
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Redocly is a design systems tool. ReadMe is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Redocly
Want the highest-rated option?
Redocly: 83/100. ReadMe: 85/100.
Go with: ReadMe
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: ReadMe
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?
Redocly is a design systems tool. ReadMe is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
ReadMe scores higher: 85/100 vs 83/100.
Key Takeaways
ReadMe
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 83
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Redocly
- Better fit for design systems
The Bottom Line
ReadMe (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Redocly or ReadMe better?
ReadMe scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Redocly and ReadMe used for?
Redocly: API documentation and developer portal. ReadMe: Developer documentation platform.
What does Redocly cost vs ReadMe?
Redocly is freemium (free tier + paid plans). ReadMe is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.