Intro.js vs Shepherd.js
By Olli, founder of Produktly · Updated 2026-10-06
Intro.js
Open-source JavaScript library for step-by-step product introductions.
Pricing: Free (open-source), commercial from $9.99
Best for: Simple product tours with minimal setup
Pros
- Simple API
- Lightweight
- Well-documented
- Good for basic tours
Cons
- Less active development
- Commercial license needed for business use
- Limited customization
- No framework-specific wrappers
Shepherd.js
Open-source guide library using Floating UI for positioning.
Pricing: Free (MIT license)
Best for: Developers wanting a modern, well-maintained tour library
Pros
- Very active community
- MIT license
- Framework wrappers available
- Modern architecture
Cons
- Slightly larger bundle
- More complex API
- Requires more configuration
- No built-in analytics
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Intro.js | Shepherd.js |
|---|---|---|
| Step-by-Step Tours | Yes | Yes |
| License | AGPL / Commercial | MIT |
| Active Maintenance | Moderate | Very active |
| Framework Wrappers | Community | Official (React, Vue, Angular) |
| Positioning Engine | Built-in | Floating UI |
| Customization | CSS-based | Full API + CSS |
| Bundle Size | Smaller | Slightly larger |
Verdict
Both are solid open-source tour libraries. Intro.js is simpler with a smaller bundle, while Shepherd.js is more actively maintained with better framework support and customization. Neither includes analytics, targeting, or additional features like checklists and surveys. For a complete solution without coding, consider Produktly.
Consider Produktly as an Alternative
If you want to skip the development work entirely, Produktly provides a no-code platform with product tours, checklists, NPS surveys, feedback widgets, roadmaps, and analytics. No coding, no maintenance — just a visual builder and a 14-day free trial to get started.
Try Produktly freeFrequently Asked Questions
Should I use Intro.js or Shepherd.js?
Shepherd.js is the better choice for most projects — it is MIT licensed, more actively maintained, and has official framework wrappers. Intro.js is simpler but requires a commercial license for business use.
Are there no-code alternatives to both?
Yes. Tools like Produktly, Appcues, and UserGuiding offer no-code tour builders that do not require any JavaScript implementation or ongoing maintenance.