Side by side
Observable vs Quiver
Both stand on notebook software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Self-hostedWeb
Observable brings data analysis, explanation, and collaboration into notebook documents. Check the plan limits and database-access behavior before sharing work that uses a connector.
Visit Observable Paid Mac
Quiver combines programming notes, documentation, syncing, and local file control in a Mac-focused notebook. Its platform restriction and limited LaTeX support are key considerations.
Visit QuiverThe facts
| Observable | Quiver | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | No |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Self-hosted, Web | Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Pro: $22 a month | Quiver: $9.99, paid once |
| Plans published | 4 | 1 |
| Maker | Observable | Not published |
| Website | observablehq.com | yliansoft.com |
| On notebook software | #19 of 25 | #23 of 25 |
Observable: what it does well
- Cells display live values alongside code.
- Real-time editing, comments, and version history.
- Hosted connectors cover multiple databases.
- Supports local development and self-hosting.
What to know first
- Sharing a connected notebook revokes its database access.
- Free includes only 1 GB monthly file attachments.
- Pro compute is limited to 50 minutes monthly.
Quiver: what it does well
- Syntax highlighting for over 120 languages
- Markdown live preview and custom CSS
- Cloud syncing across computers
- Shared notebooks support team editing
- Plain JSON storage and HTML/PDF export
What to know first
- Only available for macOS
- Requires macOS 10.13 or later
- LaTeX support limited to math-mode macros
- No price is listed
Alternatives to Observable Alternatives to Quiver The whole list