Comparison · Grammar and proofreading tools

Grammarly vs Harper: which is better in 2026?

Grammarly ranks higher in our list of grammar and proofreading tools (#1 against #3, score 92.5 against 89.5).

How we rank Share

  • 92.5
    Editorial score
    89.5
  • 4
    Platforms
    2
  • Yes
    Free to use
    Yes
  • No
    Open source
    Yes

Which should you choose?

Choose Grammarly if you want

Everyday grammar checks across browsers and apps.

Broadest reach: a browser extension, apps and a free plan that covers spelling and grammar. Tone and AI rewrites need Pro, and Harper keeps its checks on your device.

Choose Harper if you want

Private, free grammar checks on your own device.

Free, Apache-2.0 open source, with checks that run on your device. It covers grammar and spelling only, and its desktop app is listed for macOS.

The main differences

  • Only Harper runs on macOS.
  • Only Grammarly runs on iOS.
  • Only Grammarly runs on Android.
  • Only Grammarly runs on Web.
  • Harper is open source; Grammarly is not.

Side by side

GrammarlyHarper
Score92.589.5
Rank in list#1 of 10#3 of 10
PriceFree plan, paid upgradesFree plan; Pro $12 a month with a 7-day trial; Enterprise by sales contactFree and open sourceFree and open source under Apache-2.0; no paid tier listed
Free to useYesYes
Open sourceNoYes
PlatformsWebBrowser extensioniOSAndroidWeb, Browser extension, iOS, AndroidmacOSBrowser extensionmacOS, Browser extension
Made byNot statedNot stated
Where checks runBrowser extension, apps and web editorOn your device, in browsers and editors
Rewrites and paraphrasingAI rewrites need the Pro planNone; no AI model in the loop
Style guidanceTone suggestionsGrammar and spelling only
Best forEveryday grammar checks across browsers and appsPrivate, free grammar checks on your own device
Strengths
  • Free plan covers spelling and grammar checks
  • Browser extension works in many web apps
  • Tone suggestions show how text will read
  • Free and open source under Apache-2.0
  • Checks run on your device, with no telemetry
  • Fast enough for live checks as you type
Limits
  • AI rewrites and agents need the paid Pro plan
  • Enterprise pricing is not listed publicly
  • Desktop app is listed for macOS only
  • No AI rewriting or tone suggestions
LinksVisit site Visit site

Questions about Grammarly vs Harper

Is Grammarly better than Harper?
Grammarly ranks higher in our list of grammar and proofreading tools (#1 against #3, score 92.5 against 89.5). Grammarly is best for: everyday grammar checks across browsers and apps. Harper is best for: private, free grammar checks on your own device.
Which is cheaper, Grammarly or Harper?
Grammarly: Free plan; Pro $12 a month with a 7-day trial; Enterprise by sales contact. Harper: Free and open source under Apache-2.0; no paid tier listed.
Do Grammarly and Harper run on the same platforms?
Grammarly supports Web, Browser extension, iOS, Android. Harper supports macOS, Browser extension.