Roam vs Roam Research: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Roam and Roam Research 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 want to try before committing
- • Organizes knowledge through bi-directional linking.
- • Facilitates non-linear thought and idea connection.
Roam Research
A note-taking tool for networked thought
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • Networked thought and note-taking tool
- • Bidirectional linking pioneer
| At a Glance |  Roam | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Note-Taking | Note-Taking |
Rating | —/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Roam | Roam Research |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 82 |
| 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 and Roam Research Compare
Roam
A note-taking tool for networked thought.
Free tier available
Roam Research
A note-taking tool for networked thought
Paid · 82/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Roam has a free tier. Roam Research is paid only.
Go with: Roam
Want the highest-rated option?
Roam Research scores 82/100. Roam is unrated.
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 is freemium. Roam Research is paid. Roam lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are note-taking tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Roam Research
- Higher score: 82/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
Roam
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Roam Research (82/100) is our pick. Roam has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Roam or Roam Research better?
Roam Research scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Roam is freemium and Roam Research is paid.
What are Roam and Roam Research used for?
Roam: A note-taking tool for networked thought.. Roam Research: A note-taking tool for networked thought.
What does Roam cost vs Roam Research?
Roam is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Roam Research is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.