NodeBB
8.3#7 in community platformsFrom $20 a monthFree planWebAPILinuxmacOS
VisitNodeBB vs Simple Machines Forum
Simple Machines Forum
5.9#15 in forum softwareFree planFree planWebSelf-hosted
VisitWhat both publish
| Fact | NodeBB | Simple Machines Forum |
|---|---|---|
| Posting | Users can compose topics and replies with either a WYSIWYG editor or a Markdown editor. | SMF 2.1 supports HTML5 attachment uploading, including drag and drop, and saved drafts. |
| Product | NodeBB is a community discussion platform for forums and online communities. | SMF is free and open-source community forum software for setting up an online community. |
| Security | NodeBB operates a bug bounty program, but eligible testing is limited to try.nodebb.org and third-party plugins are excluded. | SMF 2.1 upgrades password hashing to bcrypt and uses unique form tokens to help prevent CSRF attacks. |
| Support | Paid hosting plans list priority support, and NodeBB also points users to its community support forum. | The support site directs users to FAQs, community forum search, community questions, and the online manual. |
NodeBB plans
- Starter$20 a month
- Hamlet$100 a month
- Village$250 a month
- City$750 a month
- Self-hostedFree
- Enterprise SolutionsPriced on request
Simple Machines Forum plans
- Simple Machines Forum 2.1.4Free
Pick NodeBB if…
NodeBB may suit organizations creating member forums, brand communities, or product support boards. It offers both hosted plans and free self-hosting, with installation options across several operating systems and cloud deployment.
Pick Simple Machines Forum if…
You want what its maker publishes above — check its page for the details.