EndNote vs RefWorks

Last updated: July 09, 2023
EndNote and RefWorks are two popular reference management software tools used by researchers and academics to organize and cite sources. While both programs serve a similar purpose, there are some key differences between EndNote and RefWorks.

1. Access and Platform: EndNote is a desktop-based software that requires installation on a local computer. It offers both a Windows and a Mac version, allowing users to have full control over their reference library and documents. On the other hand, RefWorks is a web-based platform, which means it is accessible from any internet-connected device without the need for software installation. This web-based nature of RefWorks allows for convenient collaboration and access to references and documents from multiple devices.

2. Features and Functionality: EndNote provides a comprehensive set of features for managing references, organizing documents, and generating citations and bibliographies in various citation styles. It offers advanced search capabilities, PDF annotation, and integration with popular word processing software. RefWorks, on the other hand, focuses on simplicity and ease of use. It offers basic reference management features, such as importing and organizing references, generating citations, and creating bibliographies. RefWorks also emphasizes collaboration features, allowing multiple users to work on a project simultaneously.

3. Pricing and Ownership: Another key difference between EndNote and RefWorks lies in their pricing and ownership models. EndNote is a commercial software that requires a one-time purchase or a subscription fee. Users have full ownership of their data and can continue to use the software even if they choose not to renew their subscription. RefWorks, on the other hand, is often provided by academic institutions or libraries to their users for free or at a reduced cost. The ownership of data in RefWorks may be tied to the institution's subscription, and users may lose access to the software and their data if they leave the institution.
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EndNote
EndNote is a reference manager that helps you save time formatting citations, so you can focus on your research.
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RefWorks
RefWorks is a web-based commercial reference management software package. The software enables linking from a user's RefWorks account to electronic editions of journals to which the institution's library subscribes.
EndNote vs RefWorks in our news:

2020. EndNote 20 is now available for Mac



Commercial academic paper management software EndNote has released it's latest (20) version for Mac OS. As well as the Windows version, it features unlimited storage of references and attachments, ability to share library with up to 100 people, shared library activity feed logs changes made by collaborators, ability to insert citations and references from your library into your document and automatically builds a bibliography (in over 7,000 styles) directly in Word, add subheading and categories to bibliographies in Word, directly import references from online databases, one click find full text feature, citation report (with Web of Science subscription).


2020. EndNote 20 allows to annotate and organize PDFs more efficiently



EndNote has released the new version of its popular Reference Management software EndNote 20, bringing a host of new features and improvements to the popular reference management software. At this time the program is only available for Windows. One of the most notable additions is the enhanced PDF handling capabilities, which allows users to import, annotate, and organize PDFs more efficiently. The new release also offers a revamped user interface, making it easier for users to navigate and customize their workflow. Another significant upgrade is the expanded citation style options, including support for over 9,000 reference styles. Overall, EndNote 20 offers a range of powerful tools for researchers, students, and academics to manage their references and streamline their work. The pricing starts at $275 for one license.


2016. ProQuest has revamped the RefWorks platform to simplify the process of research and collaboration.



ProQuest has introduced a new version of the RefWorks reference management platform, designed to simplify and enhance research and collaboration workflows for students, faculty, and librarians. The platform features a modern citation-style editor with a WYSIWYG interface, making it easier to implement customized output styles. It also includes a built-in PDF reader with annotation and collaboration capabilities, enabling individuals and teams to work more effectively within and outside their institution. The platform offers sharing controls that allow libraries to manage full-text content within the platform, ensuring compliance with copyright obligations. Additionally, new add-ins for Microsoft Store for Office 2016 and Google Docs eliminate the need for traditional downloads, giving students more flexibility in their writing environments. The platform leverages the proprietary 2.6 billion record Summon® discovery service index to validate, correct, and enhance citations, making research more efficient.