Side by side

KH Coder vs QualCoder

Both stand on text analytics software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

KH Coder

Free plan Open source LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1

KH Coder covers a broad range of text-analysis methods and can keep results tied to their textual context. Check the Windows edition limits or Mac system and licensing requirements before selecting a version.

Visit KH Coder

QualCoder

Free plan LinuxMacWindows

QualCoder brings qualitative coding and reporting tools to three desktop platforms at no software cost. Users should account for the single-user project limitation and any separate AI provider charges.

Visit QualCoder

The facts

	KH Coder	QualCoder
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Open source	Yes	Not published
Runs on	Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows	Linux, Mac, Windows
Lowest paid plan	See the plans	Free or on request
Plans published	9	1
Maker	Not published	Not published
Website	khcoder.net	qualcoder.org
On text analytics software	#2 of 37	#6 of 37

KH Coder: what it does well

Supports analysis across 13 listed text languages
Can run analysis without an internet connection
Offers multiple text-analysis and visualization methods
Source text can be viewed alongside statistical analyses
Runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows

What to know first

Free Windows edition limits data and features
Starting Edition is described as an older beta
Mac Edition requires Apple silicon and 5 GB free space
Mac app requires one-time approval in System Settings

QualCoder: what it does well

Free and open-source
Codes text, images, audio and video
Exports many reports in common formats
Supports REFI-QDA project and codebook exchange
Optional AI features can use local models

What to know first

Simultaneous project access can corrupt the database
VLC is required for audio or video coding
AI provider API usage may incur per-request charges

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