Heptabase vs Roam Research
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
A note-taking tool for networked thought.
The verdict
Both Heptabase and Roam Research are credible note taking tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Heptabase if you want a lower starting price (from $8.99/mo), broader platform coverage and a higher overall rating (4.6/5). Visual note-taking on an infinite canvas.
Choose Roam Research if you'd rather have a longer free trial (31 days). A note-taking tool for networked thought.
Heptabase vs Roam Research: side by side
| Dimension | Heptabase | Roam Research |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $8.99/moWinner | From $15/mo |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | 7 days | 31 daysWinner |
| Pricing model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Best for | Researchers, Students | Researchers, Writers |
| Platforms | Web, Mac, Windows, Ios, AndroidWinner | Web, Ios, Android |
| Rating | 4.6/5Winner | 4.2/5 |
Heptabase key facts
- Vendor
- Heptabase
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $8.99/mo
- Free tier
- Free trial (7 days)
- Platforms
- Web, Mac, Windows, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Researchers, Students
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2021
- Headquarters
- Taipei, Taiwan
Roam Research key facts
- Vendor
- Roam
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $15/mo
- Free tier
- Free trial (31 days)
- Platforms
- Web, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Researchers, Writers
- Editor rating
- 4.2 / 5
- Founded
- 2019
- Headquarters
- San Francisco, CA, USA
Frequently asked questions
Is Heptabase better than Roam Research?
Neither is universally better — Heptabase edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Heptabase or Roam Research cheaper?
Heptabase is the more affordable of the two to get started, at from $8.99/mo. Heptabase starts at from $8.99/mo; Roam Research starts at from $15/mo.
Can Heptabase replace Roam Research?
Yes for most teams — both are note taking tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.