Notion vs Roam Research
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
A note-taking tool for networked thought.
The verdict
Both Notion and Roam Research are credible note taking tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Notion if you want a lower starting price (free – $10/user/mo), a free plan to start on, broader platform coverage, more native integrations and a higher overall rating (4.6/5). Connected workspace for notes, docs, and databases.
Choose Roam Research if you'd rather have a longer free trial (31 days). A note-taking tool for networked thought.
Notion vs Roam Research: side by side
| Dimension | Notion | Roam Research |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free – $10/user/moWinner | From $15/mo |
| Free plan | YesWinner | No |
| Free trial | — | 31 daysWinner |
| Pricing model | Freemium | Subscription |
| Best for | Startups, Knowledge Workers, Solopreneurs | Researchers, Writers |
| Platforms | Web, Mac, Windows, Ios, Android, ApiWinner | Web, Ios, Android |
| Integrations | 4+ integrationsWinner | — |
| Rating | 4.6/5Winner | 4.2/5 |
Notion key facts
- Vendor
- Notion Labs, Inc.
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $10/user/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Mac, Windows, Ios, Android, Api
- Best for
- Startups, Knowledge Workers, Solopreneurs
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2013
- Headquarters
- San Francisco, CA, USA
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 Notion better than Roam Research?
Neither is universally better — Notion 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 Notion or Roam Research cheaper?
Notion is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $10/user/mo. Notion starts at free – $10/user/mo; Roam Research starts at from $15/mo.
Can Notion 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.