Side by side
Campfire vs FocusWriter
Both stand on writing apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhoneMac+2
Campfire combines manuscript drafting, worldbuilding, collaboration, and publishing tools. Desktop access supports offline writing, while mobile writing requires a connection and has a narrower module set.
Visit Campfire Free plan Open source LinuxMacWindows
Choose FocusWriter if you want a free Linux or Windows word processor with hidden controls, writing goals, and automatic return to your last position. Consider another option if you need a different platform or need assurance that a reported bug will be fixed quickly.
Visit FocusWriterThe facts
| Campfire | FocusWriter | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Mac, Web, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 2 | 2 |
| Maker | Campfire | Not published |
| Website | campfirewriting.com | gottcode.org |
| On writing apps | #7 of 135 | #3 of 135 |
Campfire: what it does well
- Offline writing on Mac and Windows
- Unlimited storage across its apps
- Invite collaborators to view, comment, or edit
- PDF and EPUB manuscript export
- Free plan available
What to know first
- Mobile writing requires an internet connection
- Mobile app lacks some modules
- Free-plan element limits apply on browser and desktop
FocusWriter: what it does well
- The interface hides until the mouse reaches a screen edge.
- Themes can set fonts, colors, and background images.
- Includes spell-checking, live statistics, and daily goals.
- Reopens current work at the previous position.
- Free and licensed under GPL version 3.
What to know first
- Available desktop platforms are Linux and Windows.
- Linux packages depend on Qt and hunspell.
- The maker says bug reports can take time to fix.
- No free trial is offered.
Alternatives to Campfire Alternatives to FocusWriter The whole list