Katalon vs Playwright
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Reliable cross-browser automation.
The verdict
Both Katalon and Playwright are credible software testing tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Katalon if you want broader platform coverage. All-in-one test automation for web, API, mobile and desktop
Choose Playwright if you'd rather have a higher overall rating (4.7/5). Reliable cross-browser automation.
Katalon vs Playwright: side by side
| Dimension | Katalon | Playwright |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Freemium | Open source |
| Best for | Qa Teams, Developers | Developers, Qa |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Linux, Web, ApiWinner | Mac, Windows, Linux |
| Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.7/5Winner |
Katalon key facts
- Vendor
- Katalon
- Pricing
- Freemium - Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux, Web, Api
- Best for
- Qa Teams, Developers
- Editor rating
- 4.3 / 5
- Founded
- 2016
- Headquarters
- Atlanta, USA
Playwright key facts
- Vendor
- Microsoft
- Pricing
- Open source - Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Mac, Windows, Linux
- Best for
- Developers, Qa
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2020
- Headquarters
- Redmond, WA, USA
Frequently asked questions
Is Katalon better than Playwright?
Neither is universally better - Playwright 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 Katalon or Playwright cheaper?
Katalon is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free. Katalon starts at free; Playwright starts at free.
Can Katalon replace Playwright?
Yes for most teams - both are software testing tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.