Side by side
Roll20 vs Shmeppy
Both stand on virtual tabletop software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWeb+1
Roll20 brings online tabletop tools, character sheets, and map features into a browser-based space. Consider the free tier’s storage and ads, and note that API access requires Pro.
Visit Roll20 Free plan AndroidiPhoneWeb
Shmeppy focuses on live map-making and player interaction, with a shared dice tray and mobile access. Groups that need voice or text chat will need a separate service.
Visit ShmeppyThe facts
| Roll20 | Shmeppy | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Web, Windows | Android, iPhone, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Pro: $8.33, paid once | GM: $4.99 a month |
| Plans published | 3 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | roll20.net | shmeppy.com |
| On virtual tabletop software | #13 of 28 | #17 of 28 |
Roll20: what it does well
- Supports more than 1,200 game systems.
- Includes voice, video, chat, and 3D dice.
- Built-in sheets cover more than 250 systems.
- Macros can automate rolls and character actions.
- Free tier is available indefinitely.
What to know first
- Free plan includes ads and 100MB storage.
- API access requires Pro.
- Mobile apps are not available.
- Continuous availability is not guaranteed.
Shmeppy: what it does well
- Map updates sync instantly to connected players.
- Players can join by URL without an account.
- Dice rolls offer public, GM-only, and private visibility.
- GM plan includes 10 GB of image storage.
What to know first
- No built-in voice or text chat.
- GM plan costs $4.99 a month.
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