Plaso
7.3#2 in digital forensics softwareFree planFree planAPILinuxmacOSSelf-hosted
VisitPlaso vs X-Ways Imager
X-Ways Imager
5.8#25 in digital forensics softwareFrom 74 CHF a yearWindows
VisitWhat both publish
| Fact | Plaso | X-Ways Imager |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Plaso is a Python-based engine used by tools to create super timelines or more targeted timelines for digital forensic analysis. | X-Ways Imager is a forensic disk imaging tool and a stripped-down version of X-Ways Forensics focused on imaging functionality. |
| Support | The project directs users to its discussion mailing list, Open Source DFIR Slack community, troubleshooting guide, and GitHub issue tracker; contributions are best effort. | The maker lists general or technical inquiries by email and says to check the program help or user manual first. |
Plaso plans
- Open-source Plaso packageFree
- PlasoFree
X-Ways Imager plans
- X-Ways Imager non-perpetual license74 CHF a year
- X-Ways Imager perpetual license157 CHF, paid once
Pick Plaso if…
Plaso suits digital forensic practitioners who need to collect and analyze timelines from files, devices, logs, or storage images. Its parser and plug-in framework may also suit users extending forensic workflows.
Pick X-Ways Imager if…
You want what its maker publishes above — check its page for the details.