Zotero: The Open-Source Option
Strengths: Completely free and open-source. Excellent one-click browser extension. Strong group library features. Privacy-focused. 300 MB free cloud storage.
Weaknesses: PDF annotation less polished than Mendeley. Interface less intuitive for new users.
Mendeley: The Elsevier Option
Strengths: User-friendly interface. Strong PDF annotation. 2 GB free storage.
Weaknesses: Owned by Elsevier — data privacy concerns. Some features reduced since acquisition.
Setting Up Word Integration
Both install a plugin for Microsoft Word. Place cursor for citation → click plugin → search library → insert. Then generate bibliography automatically in your chosen citation style.
Our Recommendation
For most researchers, Zotero is the better long-term choice: free, open, and privacy-respecting. Mendeley suits those who prioritize PDF annotation features.