Shepherd.js vs Userflow
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
| Shepherd.js | Userflow | |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | Open-source JavaScript library for product tours. | Fast flow builder for onboarding and product tours. |
| Best for | Engineering teams that want full control in code | SaaS teams that want to iterate on onboarding quickly |
| Free plan | Yes | Not listed |
| Pricing | Free under the AGPL-3.0 licence. Commercial licences are available for closed-source products. | Published plans with MAU-based pricing and a custom Enterprise tier. 14-day free trial, no free plan. |
| Website | shepherdjs.dev | userflow.com |
What stands out
- Open-source tour library
- React, Vue, Angular and Ember wrappers
- Accessible with keyboard navigation
- Fully customisable styling
- Flow builder for tours
- Checklists
- Surveys
- Resource center
- Banners
- A/B testing
Integrations
Apps and tools each vendor names on its website. Not a complete list.
Only Shepherd.js
Both
Only Userflow
Which should you choose?
Your team matches its sweet spot: engineering teams that want full control in code.
You want to start on a free plan.
Visit Shepherd.jsYour team matches its sweet spot: saaS teams that want to iterate on onboarding quickly.
Visit UserflowWhat 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 Shepherd.js and Userflow?
Both are product onboarding tools. Shepherd.js is best suited to engineering teams that want full control in code, while Userflow is best suited to saaS teams that want to iterate on onboarding quickly.
Do Shepherd.js or Userflow have a free plan?
Shepherd.js: yes, a free plan is available. Userflow: no free plan is listed. Checked October 2026.
How should I choose between Shepherd.js and Userflow?
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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