Fullstory Guides and Surveys 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
| Fullstory Guides and Surveys | Shepherd.js | |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | In-app guidance triggered by behavioural data (formerly Usetiful). | Open-source JavaScript library for product tours. |
| Best for | Teams already using Fullstory for digital experience analytics | Engineering teams that want full control in code |
| Free plan | Not listed | Yes |
| Pricing | Sold as part of the Fullstory platform; contact Fullstory for pricing. | Free under the AGPL-3.0 licence. Commercial licences are available for closed-source products. |
| Website | fullstory.com | shepherdjs.dev |
What stands out
- Tours
- Smart tips
- Checklists
- Banners
- Surveys linked to session data
- Behaviour-based targeting
Fullstory acquired Usetiful in November 2025 and launched Guides and Surveys in February 2026. Usetiful is no longer sold on its own.
Full Fullstory Guides and Surveys profile
- 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 Fullstory Guides and Surveys
Both
Only Shepherd.js
Which should you choose?
Your team matches its sweet spot: teams already using Fullstory for digital experience analytics.
Visit Fullstory Guides and SurveysYour 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 Fullstory Guides and Surveys and Shepherd.js?
Both are product onboarding tools. Fullstory Guides and Surveys is best suited to teams already using Fullstory for digital experience analytics, while Shepherd.js is best suited to engineering teams that want full control in code.
Do Fullstory Guides and Surveys or Shepherd.js have a free plan?
Fullstory Guides and Surveys: no free plan is listed. Shepherd.js: yes, a free plan is available. Checked October 2026.
How should I choose between Fullstory Guides and Surveys 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.