Roam Research vs Obsidian: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Roam Research and Obsidian 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 need note-taking features specifically
- • Networked thought and note-taking tool
- • Bidirectional linking pioneer
Obsidian
Private and flexible note-taking
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need documentation features specifically
- • Private knowledge base with markdown
- • Your notes, fully offline and yours
| At a Glance |  Obsidian | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Note-Taking | Documentation |
Rating | 82/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | Roam Research | Obsidian |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Note-TakingMind Mapping | DocumentationNote-Taking |
How Roam Research and Obsidian Compare
Roam Research
A note-taking tool for networked thought
Paid · 82/100 score
Obsidian
Private and flexible note-taking
Free tier available · 90/100 score
Roam Research is a note-taking tool. Obsidian is in documentation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Obsidian has a free tier. Roam Research is paid only.
Go with: Obsidian
Want the highest-rated option?
Roam Research: 82/100. Obsidian: 90/100.
Go with: Obsidian
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Obsidian
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Roam Research is paid. Obsidian is freemium. Obsidian lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Roam Research is a note-taking tool. Obsidian is in documentation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Obsidian scores higher: 90/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Obsidian
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 82
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Roam Research
- Better fit for note-taking
The Bottom Line
Obsidian (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Roam Research or Obsidian better?
Obsidian scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Roam Research is paid and Obsidian is freemium.
What are Roam Research and Obsidian used for?
Roam Research: A note-taking tool for networked thought. Obsidian: Private and flexible note-taking.
What does Roam Research cost vs Obsidian?
Roam Research is a paid tool. Obsidian is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.