Candu vs Shepherd.js
A side-by-side comparison of two product onboarding tools, based on details checked against each vendor's website in October 2026.
At a glance
| Candu | Shepherd.js | |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | No-code, native-looking in-app experiences. | Open-source JavaScript library for product tours. |
| Best for | Product teams that want onboarding to match their UI | Engineering teams that want full control in code |
| Free plan | Not listed | Yes |
| Pricing | Starter plan from $199/month. Free trial available; larger plans on request. | Free under the AGPL-3.0 licence. Commercial licences are available for closed-source products. |
| Website | candu.ai | shepherdjs.dev |
What stands out
- AI no-code builder
- Checklists
- Embedded native content
- Modals and hotspots
- Banners
- Forms and surveys
- A/B testing
- Open-source tour library
- React, Vue, Angular and Ember wrappers
- Accessible with keyboard navigation
- Fully customisable styling
Integrations
Apps and tools each vendor names on its website. Not a complete list.
Only Candu
Both
Only Shepherd.js
Which should you choose?
Your team matches its sweet spot: product teams that want onboarding to match their UI.
Visit CanduYour team matches its sweet spot: engineering teams that want full control in code.
You want to start on a free plan.
Visit Shepherd.jsWhat to check in a trial or demo of either
- A visual builder that works with your front-end framework
- Flexible targeting by user properties, events and plan
- Built-in analytics or strong integrations with your analytics stack
- Styling controls so experiences match your design system
- A/B testing to measure the impact of flows
- Mobile support if you have a native app
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Candu and Shepherd.js?
Both are product onboarding tools. Candu is best suited to product teams that want onboarding to match their UI, while Shepherd.js is best suited to engineering teams that want full control in code.
Do Candu or Shepherd.js have a free plan?
Candu: no free plan is listed. Shepherd.js: yes, a free plan is available. Checked October 2026.
How should I choose between Candu and Shepherd.js?
Shortlist both, run a trial or proof of concept on a real use case, and compare total cost, ease of building content and how well each fits your existing tools.
Download the vendor scoring sheet and demo script to run consistent demos and score every vendor the same way.
Comparison generated from our directory data, checked against vendor websites in October 2026. Products and prices change; confirm details with each vendor. Compare other tools.