Alchemy RPG
Free tier
Roll20
Free tier
Alchemy RPG vs Roll20: Which Should You Use?
Last updated: 2026
Choose Alchemy RPG if…
Narrative-focused GMs who prioritise storytelling atmosphere over tactical grid combat.
Visit Alchemy RPG →Choose Roll20 if…
New GMs who want to start quickly without spending money or installing software.
Visit Roll20 →Side-by-side comparison
| | | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | freemium | freemium |
| Starting price | Free | Free |
| Free tier | ||
| Platforms | Web | Web |
| Game systems | D&D 5e, System agnostic | D&D 5e, Pathfinder 2e, Call of Cthulhu, System agnostic |
| Self-hosted | ||
| AI-powered | ||
| Open source | ||
| Works offline | ||
| Official content | ||
| Launched | 2021 | 2012 |
Pricing breakdown
Alchemy RPG
Free tier available; Creator tier $9.99/mo for publishing and advanced features.
Roll20
Free tier available; Plus $5.99/mo, Pro $9.99/mo for GMs. Players always free.
Pros & cons
Alchemy RPG
Pros
- Strong atmosphere tools for narrative-first groups
- No install required — fully browser based
- Indie publisher content available at launch
Cons
- Weaker tactical map support than Roll20 or Foundry
- Smaller user base means less community content
- Advanced features require paid tier
Roll20
Pros
- No software install — runs in any browser
- Largest existing user base and community
- Free tier is genuinely usable for basic games
Cons
- Dynamic lighting locked behind subscription
- Performance can degrade with large maps
- Older interface feels dated compared to newer VTTs
Frequently asked questions
Is Alchemy RPG or Roll20 cheaper?
Both Alchemy RPG and Roll20 have free tiers, so you can try both at no cost.
Can I use Alchemy RPG and Roll20 together?
Alchemy RPG and Roll20 overlap in the virtual-tabletops category, so most users pick one or the other rather than using both. That said, some GMs use them for different parts of their workflow if the tools serve genuinely different purposes.