HelpNDoc vs XMetaL Author
HelpNDoc
helpndoc.comXMetaL Author
xmetal.comSide by side
| Figure | HelpNDoc | XMetaL Author |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | — |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | — | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| API | Yes | — |
| Self-hosted | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 8 | 1 |
| Spec score · Help Authoring Tools | 8.9 (#2) | 6.9 (#21) |
| Security | HelpNDoc can add PDF encryption and password protection to restrict access to generated documents. | The XMetaL Author Essential 20.0 page says the release includes critical security enhancements. |
Plans
HelpNDoc
- Personal EditionFree
- Personal EditionFree
- Standard Named€99, paid once
- Standard Floating€249, paid once
- Professional Named€299, paid once
- Ultimate Named€499, paid once
- Professional Floating€749, paid once
- Ultimate Floating€1,249, paid once
In their own words
HelpNDoc
HelpNDoc is a Windows help-authoring tool for turning written or imported content into help files, websites, manuals, documents, Markdown, and eBooks. A single project can generate CHM, HTML, Word, PDF, Qt Help, Markdown, ePub, and Kindle outputs. Its authoring environment combines a table of contents editor, WYSIWYG topic editor, keywords editor, library, and word processor. The library stores reusable media and content, including pictures, videos, documents, HTML, variables, snippets, equations, QR codes, and counters. A script editor and API support project automation with Pascal commands, and generated help IDs and context numbers can be produced as source code for several programming languages. PDF output offers controls for compression, encryption, permissions, fonts, and viewer layout. The Ultimate edition includes an AI Assistant, AI Project Management Agent, and built-in MCP server. A free Personal Edition is available for personal use; commercial editions start at €99, with named and floating licenses. The listed prices exclude VAT.
XMetaL Author
XMetaL Author has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.