Side by side
Scapple vs Tectonian
Both stand on mind mapping tools. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free trial MacWindows
Scapple offers a flexible, non-hierarchical way to arrange notes and connect ideas. Its broad export choices and Scrivener support help extend the workspace, while platform-specific licensing and system requirements matter when choosing a licence.
Visit Scapple Free plan Web
Tectonian combines mind maps, writing spaces, focus tools, and several planning views in a browser app. Its encryption model and unrecoverable passphrase require care, while the free and paid plans provide different workspace and node limits.
Visit TectonianThe facts
| Scapple | Tectonian | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | A free trial | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Mac, Windows | Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Professional: $8 a month |
| Plans published | 8 | 3 |
| Maker | Scapple | Not published |
| Website | literatureandlatte.com | tectonian.com |
| On mind mapping tools | #60 of 72 | #56 of 72 |
Scapple: what it does well
- Unconnected notes are allowed
- Columns and background shapes organize ideas
- Exports seven listed formats
- Full-version trial lasts 30 days of use
- Supports dragging notes into Scrivener
What to know first
- No free plan
- Each standard licence covers one platform
- Requires macOS 10.15+ or 64-bit Windows 10+
- Major updates may require an upgrade fee
Tectonian: what it does well
- Multiple mind-map layouts and views
- Focus Mode reduces visual distractions
- Includes speech-to-text writing
- Offers AI assistance and PDF export
- Free plan available
What to know first
- Forgotten passphrases cannot be recovered
- Free plan limits workspaces and nodes
- Runs on the web
- Paid plans billed monthly
Alternatives to Scapple Alternatives to Tectonian The whole list