Stoplight vs ReadMe: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Stoplight and ReadMe 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:
Stoplight
API design platform
Best for you if:
- • You need ui/ux design features specifically
- • Stoplight is an API design platform for building APIs collaboratively
- • It provides visual API design, documentation, and governance tools
ReadMe
Developer documentation platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.3/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Developer documentation platform with API reference sync
- • Interactive API explorer from OpenAPI specs
| At a Glance |  Stoplight |  ReadMe |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | UI/UX Design | API Tools |
Rating | 83/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Stoplight | ReadMe |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 83 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | UI/UX DesignPrototyping | API ToolsDocumentation |
How Stoplight and ReadMe Compare
Stoplight
API design platform
Free tier available · 83/100 score
ReadMe
Developer documentation platform
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Stoplight is a ui/ux design tool. ReadMe is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Stoplight
Want the highest-rated option?
Stoplight: 83/100. ReadMe: 85/100.
Go with: ReadMe
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: ReadMe
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?
Stoplight is a ui/ux design tool. ReadMe is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
ReadMe scores higher: 85/100 vs 83/100.
Key Takeaways
ReadMe
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 83
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Stoplight
- Better fit for ui/ux design
The Bottom Line
ReadMe (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stoplight or ReadMe better?
ReadMe scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Stoplight and ReadMe used for?
Stoplight: API design platform. ReadMe: Developer documentation platform.
What does Stoplight cost vs ReadMe?
Stoplight is freemium (free tier + paid plans). ReadMe is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.