Pendo 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
| Pendo | Shepherd.js | |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | Product analytics plus in-app guides for software teams. | Open-source JavaScript library for product tours. |
| Best for | Product teams who want analytics and in-app guidance in one place | Engineering teams that want full control in code |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing | Pendo Free covers up to 500 monthly active users. Paid plans (Base, Core, Ultimate) are priced on MAU volume by quote. | Free under the AGPL-3.0 licence. Commercial licences are available for closed-source products. |
| Website | pendo.io | shepherdjs.dev |
What stands out
- Product analytics
- In-app guides
- Session replay
- Sentiment surveys (NPS, CSAT)
- Roadmaps
- Leo AI assistant
Pendo says it connects with more than 85 tools across CRM, support, marketing and analytics.
Full Pendo 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 Pendo
Both
Only Shepherd.js
Which should you choose?
Your team matches its sweet spot: product teams who want analytics and in-app guidance in one place.
Visit PendoYour team matches its sweet spot: engineering teams that want full control in code.
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 Pendo and Shepherd.js?
Both are product onboarding tools. Pendo is best suited to product teams who want analytics and in-app guidance in one place, while Shepherd.js is best suited to engineering teams that want full control in code.
Do Pendo or Shepherd.js have a free plan?
Pendo: yes, a free plan is available. Shepherd.js: yes, a free plan is available. Checked October 2026.
How should I choose between Pendo 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.
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