RevolutionEHR vs Open Dental: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between RevolutionEHR and Open Dental 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.
Bottom line: RevolutionEHR is our overall pick for EHR/EMR workflows. Pick Open Dental if you need practice management.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
RevolutionEHR
The all-in-one cloud-based EHR and practice management software built exclusively for optometry.
Best for you if:
- • You need EHR/EMR features specifically
- • All-in-one cloud-based EHR and practice management system for optometry.
- • Highly customizable workflows and dedicated tools for eye care, including optical and inventory management.
Open Dental
Comprehensive, customizable, and affordable practice management software for dental offices of any size.
Best for you if:
- • You need practice management features specifically
- • Comprehensive dental practice management software.
- • Highly customizable with extensive features for clinical and administrative tasks.
| At a Glance |  RevolutionEHR |  Open Dental |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $455/moRevolutionEHR Core | Custom |
Best For | EHR/EMR | Practice Management |
Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.4/5 |
Choose RevolutionEHR or Open Dental?
Choose RevolutionEHR if
The all-in-one cloud-based EHR and practice management software built exclusively for optometry.
- Specifically designed for optometry, not generic medical use
- Cloud-based accessibility enhances flexibility for multi-location practices and remote access
- High degree of customization for exams, encounters, and workflows
- Your work is EHR/EMR-shaped, not practice management-shaped
Choose Open Dental if
Comprehensive, customizable, and affordable practice management software for dental offices of any size.
- Comprehensive feature set for all aspects of dental practice management.
- Highly customizable to fit specific practice needs.
- Affordable pricing for practices of any size.
- Your work is practice management-shaped, not EHR/EMR-shaped
| Feature | RevolutionEHR | Open Dental |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.4/5 231 reviews | ★4.4/5 189 reviews |
| Categories | EHR/EMRPractice Management | Practice ManagementEHR/EMR |
In-Depth Analysis
RevolutionEHR
The all-in-one cloud-based EHR and practice management software built exclusively for optometry.
Strengths
- +Specifically designed for optometry, not generic medical use
- +Cloud-based accessibility enhances flexibility for multi-location practices and remote access
- +High degree of customization for exams, encounters, and workflows
- +Comprehensive suite of integrated solutions covers most practice needs
- +Strong customer support and commitment to continuous improvement
Weaknesses
- -Requires a one-time service fee and database conversion fee in addition to monthly subscription
- -Pricing is based on the number of doctors, which may be a factor for very large practices
Key features
Open Dental
Comprehensive, customizable, and affordable practice management software for dental offices of any size.
Strengths
- +Comprehensive feature set for all aspects of dental practice management.
- +Highly customizable to fit specific practice needs.
- +Affordable pricing for practices of any size.
- +Extensive third-party integrations and interoperability.
- +Active community forums and rapid release cycle for new features.
Weaknesses
- -Requires integration with third-party vendors for some advanced functionalities (e.g., AI for insurance verification).
- -Open Dental does not endorse or provide technical support for all third-party products.
- -Some features like 'Appointment Mirroring' are in beta.
Key features
Pricing: RevolutionEHR vs Open Dental
| Plan | RevolutionEHR | Open Dental |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $455 RevolutionEHR Core | N/A |
| Tier 2 | Starting at $660 RevolutionEHR Advanced | N/A |
| Tier 3 | Starting at $830 RevolutionEHR Premium | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on RevolutionEHR pricing and Open Dental pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: RevolutionEHR
Want the highest-rated option?
RevolutionEHR: 4.4/5 (231 reviews). Open Dental: 4.4/5 (189 reviews).
Go with: RevolutionEHR
Value user reviews?
RevolutionEHR: 231 reviews (4.4/5). Open Dental: 189 reviews (4.4/5).
Go with: RevolutionEHR
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
RevolutionEHR is a EHR/EMR tool. Open Dental is in practice management. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Both are rated 4.4/5.
Key Takeaways
RevolutionEHR
- Larger review base (231 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
Open Dental
- Better fit for practice management
The Bottom Line
RevolutionEHR is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is RevolutionEHR or Open Dental better?
RevolutionEHR is rated in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are RevolutionEHR and Open Dental used for?
RevolutionEHR: The all-in-one cloud-based EHR and practice management software built exclusively for optometry.. Open Dental: Comprehensive, customizable, and affordable practice management software for dental offices of any size..
What does RevolutionEHR cost vs Open Dental?
RevolutionEHR is a paid tool. Open Dental is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.