eLabFTW vs Labfolder

eLabFTW is an electronic lab notebook for storing experiments and protocols, organizing records, and supporting collaboration. Users can tag and categorize entries, search them, manage lab resources and quantities, link resources to experiments, and book shared equipment with its Scheduler. One instance can host several teams, with entry-level visibility and editing controls plus Team Groups permissions. Research data can be imported and exported in formats including PDF, ZIP, CSV, JSON, and ELN. Its REST API lets external programs read and write data, and documentation links to a Python library. Listed integrations include PubChem, the Bloxberg blockchain, and Keeex timestamping workflows; authentication options include LDAP, SAML2, and two-factor authentication. The self-hosted software costs nothing under AGPLv3, with no features behind a paywall. It must be installed on a server and configured and maintained by a systems administrator; the site recommends managed hosting for people unfamiliar with server administration. Paid options include PRO Support at €3,000 a year and PRO Hosting plans from €3,200 a year to €8,700 a year.

Labfolder is a browser-based electronic lab notebook for documenting, organizing, and managing experiments. Researchers can work with different data types, track changes, and export research data. Teams can share projects with custom access settings, message each other, assign tasks, and use electronic signatures. Labregister links inventory records to Labfolder notes and is included at no extra cost. Labfolder offers an HTTP-based REST API for working with data in third-party applications, and lists Dropbox, Figshare, and Labregister among its in-ELN apps. The company says data is processed and stored in Germany, protected with 256-bit SSL encryption, and backed up daily. The browser product needs no installation, and on-premise deployment is available. The site says it works in modern browsers on Windows, Mac, and Linux, including desktop, tablet, and smartphone devices. It has no mobile app and does not support offline editing. Labfolder describes support for GLP and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 through record history, electronic signatures, secure storage, and role-based access control. A free plan and 14-day trial are listed, but pricing depends on user count and requires a quote.