Side by side
Adobe FrameMaker vs XMetaL Author
Both stand on help authoring tools. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Paid Windows
FrameMaker combines structured desktop authoring with broad publishing outputs and several licensing arrangements. Its lack of listed prices means prospective users must clarify costs before choosing an individual, team, enterprise, or education plan.
Visit Adobe FrameMaker Free trial Windows
XMetaL Author provides structured XML authoring, reuse, review, and publishing tools for Windows teams. Its integrations and repository connections support larger documentation workflows, while pricing is request-based.
Visit XMetaL AuthorThe facts
| Adobe FrameMaker | XMetaL Author | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | A free trial |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Windows | Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 4 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | adobe.com | xmetal.com |
| On help authoring tools | #25 of 28 | #21 of 28 |
Adobe FrameMaker: what it does well
- Supports single-sourcing and version control
- Includes translation and review workflows
- Publishes to PDF, HTML5, EPUB, and Kindle
- Offers team and enterprise licensing
- 30-day trial available
What to know first
- Windows platform only
- No free plan
XMetaL Author: what it does well
- Supports DITA and XML architectures
- Content reuse from repositories
- Publishes PDF and web outputs
- Version control and review workflows
- 30-day trial listed
What to know first
- Windows platform only
- Pricing requires contacting sales
- No free plan
- Desktop authoring model
Alternatives to Adobe FrameMaker Alternatives to XMetaL Author The whole list