Zotero
Reference managementFree tool to collect, organise, cite and share research
- Stars
- ★ 15.7k
- Licence
- AGPL-3.0
- Updated
- Opens RIS
- Opens BibTeX
- Opens EndNote XML
Free alternatives to EndNote
Last updated · 2 options
Quick answer: Zotero has the most stars on its repository of the 2 options here (★ 15.7k), followed by JabRef (★ 4.8k). Stars show popularity, not fit, so check formats, platforms and licence for your own work.
Clarivate's reference manager. Here are 2 free options, most-starred first.
What EndNote costs
- Full version$275 (one-time)
- Student$150
- Upgrade$125
From the vendor's own pricing page (endnote.com), checked 19 Oct 2026. Prices change and may exclude tax, so check before you decide.
JabRef
Reference managementOpen-source reference manager built around BibTeX
- Stars
- ★ 4.8k
- Licence
- MIT
- Updated
How to switch
FAQ
Is there a free alternative to EndNote?
Yes. ResearchAlts lists 2 options: Zotero and JabRef.
How much does EndNote cost?
Full version: $275 (one-time); Student: $150; Upgrade: $125. These are the vendor's published prices, checked 19 Oct 2026 on endnote.com.
Which EndNote alternatives are open source?
Zotero (AGPL-3.0) and JabRef (MIT).
Which EndNote alternatives run on a Mac?
Zotero and JabRef (all of them).
Which of these can open EndNote XML export files?
Zotero, according to each project's own documentation (linked under “Fit” on its page). We haven't found it documented for the others.
How do I move from EndNote to Zotero?
Export your EndNote library as XML, then import it into Zotero with File → Import. Save the XML in the right folder and your PDFs come across too. Our step-by-step guide follows Zotero's official documentation.
Related categories: Reference management
Free tools are not always drop-in replacements. Check that a tool supports the file formats, tests and methods your supervisor, journal or ethics board expects before switching mid-project.