The Things Network vs Node-RED: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between The Things Network and Node-RED 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:
The Things Network
Build and scale IoT applications with a global, open LoRaWAN network.
Best for you if:
- • You need iot platforms features specifically
- • Provides an open, global LoRaWAN network for IoT applications.
- • Offers tools and resources for managing devices, gateways, and data.
Node-RED
Flow-based programming for IoT
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • Node-RED is a flow-based programming tool for wiring IoT and APIs
- • It creates automation flows with a visual browser-based editor
| At a Glance |  The Things Network |  Node-RED |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | IoT Platforms | Low-Code Backend |
Rating | —/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | The Things Network | Node-RED |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IoT Platforms | Low-Code BackendAutomation |
How The Things Network and Node-RED Compare
The Things Network
Build and scale IoT applications with a global, open LoRaWAN network.
Free
Node-RED
Flow-based programming for IoT
Free · 80/100 score
The Things Network is a iot platforms tool. Node-RED is in low-code backend.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: The Things Network
Want the highest-rated option?
Node-RED scores 80/100. The Things Network is unrated.
Go with: Node-RED
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Node-RED
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
The Things Network is a iot platforms tool. Node-RED is in low-code backend. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Node-RED
- Higher score: 80/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
The Things Network
- Better fit for iot platforms
The Bottom Line
Node-RED (80/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Things Network or Node-RED better?
Node-RED scores 80/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are The Things Network and Node-RED used for?
The Things Network: Build and scale IoT applications with a global, open LoRaWAN network.. Node-RED: Flow-based programming for IoT.
What does The Things Network cost vs Node-RED?
The Things Network is completely free. Node-RED is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.