Roam Research vs AFFiNE: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Roam Research 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:
Roam Research
A note-taking tool for networked thought
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 8.1/10)
- • You need note-taking features specifically
- • Networked thought and note-taking tool
- • Bidirectional linking pioneer
AFFiNE
Unified knowledge OS
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need whiteboard features specifically
- • Open-source Notion alternative
- • Privacy-first workspace
| At a Glance |  AFFiNE | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Note-Taking | Whiteboard |
Rating | 82/100 | 81/100 |
| Feature | Roam Research | AFFiNE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 81 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 146 |
| Categories | Note-TakingMind Mapping | WhiteboardNote-Taking |
How Roam Research and AFFiNE Compare
Roam Research
A note-taking tool for networked thought
Paid · 82/100 score
AFFiNE
Unified knowledge OS
Free tier available · 81/100 score
Roam Research is a note-taking tool. AFFiNE is in whiteboard.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
AFFiNE has a free tier. Roam Research is paid only.
Go with: AFFiNE
Want the highest-rated option?
Roam Research: 82/100. AFFiNE: 81/100.
Go with: Roam Research
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Roam Research
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Roam Research is paid. AFFiNE is freemium. AFFiNE lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Roam Research is a note-taking tool. AFFiNE is in whiteboard. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Roam Research scores higher: 82/100 vs 81/100.
Key Takeaways
Roam Research
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 81
- Our pick for this comparison
AFFiNE
- Has a free tier
- More community upvotes (146)
- Better fit for whiteboard
The Bottom Line
Roam Research (82/100) is our pick. AFFiNE has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Roam Research or AFFiNE better?
Roam Research scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Roam Research is paid and AFFiNE is freemium.
What are Roam Research and AFFiNE used for?
Roam Research: A note-taking tool for networked thought. AFFiNE: Unified knowledge OS.
What does Roam Research cost vs AFFiNE?
Roam Research is a paid tool. AFFiNE is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.