Swagger vs ReadMe: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Swagger 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:
Swagger
API development framework
Best for you if:
- • You need ide & code editors features specifically
- • Document APIs with interactive docs
- • OpenAPI spec generates client SDKs
ReadMe
Developer documentation platform
Best for you if:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Developer documentation platform with API reference sync
- • Interactive API explorer from OpenAPI specs
| At a Glance |  Swagger |  ReadMe |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | API Tools |
Rating | 85/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Swagger | ReadMe |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsAPI Tools | API ToolsDocumentation |
How Swagger and ReadMe Compare
Swagger
API development framework
Free tier available · 85/100 score
ReadMe
Developer documentation platform
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Swagger is a ide & code editors tool. ReadMe is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Swagger
Want the highest-rated option?
Swagger: 85/100. ReadMe: 85/100.
Go with: Swagger
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Swagger
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?
Swagger is a ide & code editors tool. ReadMe is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Both score 85/100.
Key Takeaways
Swagger
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
ReadMe
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Swagger (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Swagger or ReadMe better?
Swagger scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Swagger and ReadMe used for?
Swagger: API development framework. ReadMe: Developer documentation platform.
What does Swagger cost vs ReadMe?
Swagger is freemium (free tier + paid plans). ReadMe is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.