Roam Research vs Tana: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Roam Research and Tana 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:
- • Networked thought and note-taking tool
- • Bidirectional linking pioneer
Tana
Everything is a node
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.3/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • Tana is a knowledge management tool with structured data and AI
- • It combines notes, tasks, and databases in a flexible workspace
| At a Glance |  Tana | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Note-Taking | Note-Taking |
Rating | 82/100 | 83/100 |
| Feature | Roam Research | Tana |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 83 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Note-TakingMind Mapping | Note-TakingMind Mapping |
How Roam Research and Tana Compare
Roam Research
A note-taking tool for networked thought
Paid · 82/100 score
Tana
Everything is a node
Free tier available · 83/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Tana has a free tier. Roam Research is paid only.
Go with: Tana
Want the highest-rated option?
Roam Research: 82/100. Tana: 83/100.
Go with: Tana
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Tana
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Roam Research is paid. Tana is freemium. Tana lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are note-taking tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Tana scores higher: 83/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Tana
- Higher score: 83/100 vs 82
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Roam Research
The Bottom Line
Tana (83/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Roam Research or Tana better?
Tana scores 83/100 in our evaluation. Roam Research is paid and Tana is freemium.
What are Roam Research and Tana used for?
Roam Research: A note-taking tool for networked thought. Tana: Everything is a node.
What does Roam Research cost vs Tana?
Roam Research is a paid tool. Tana is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.