Roam vs Obsidian: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Roam 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
A note-taking tool for networked thought.
Best for you if:
- • You need note-taking features specifically
- • Organizes knowledge through bi-directional linking.
- • Facilitates non-linear thought and idea connection.
Obsidian
Private and flexible note-taking
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need documentation features specifically
- • Private knowledge base with markdown
- • Your notes, fully offline and yours
| At a Glance |  Roam |  Obsidian |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Note-Taking | Documentation |
Rating | —/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | Roam | Obsidian |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 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 and Obsidian Compare
Roam
A note-taking tool for networked thought.
Free tier available
Obsidian
Private and flexible note-taking
Free tier available · 90/100 score
Roam is a note-taking tool. Obsidian is in documentation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Roam
Want the highest-rated option?
Obsidian scores 90/100. Roam is unrated.
Go with: Obsidian
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Obsidian
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?
Roam is a note-taking tool. Obsidian is in documentation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Obsidian
- Higher score: 90/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Roam
- Better fit for note-taking
The Bottom Line
Obsidian (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Roam or Obsidian better?
Obsidian scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Roam and Obsidian used for?
Roam: A note-taking tool for networked thought.. Obsidian: Private and flexible note-taking.
What does Roam cost vs Obsidian?
Roam is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Obsidian is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.