When a free option is enough
For a first online session, one-shot or workflow trial before a longer campaign.
For a group using ordinary maps within the service's current quotas.
For players who want browser access without buying a license.
Free VTT without fine print
Which VTT can you use for free?
A free tier does not mean unlimited features. We compare whether you can start without paying, who operates the service and what practical work awaits GMs and players.
Facts verified 2026-08-28
Compared using the same criteria
The table separates verifiable facts from recommendations. Always confirm current pricing and terms with the provider.
| Criterion | DiceRoll | Roll20 | Foundry VTT | Owlbear Rodeo |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Free tier with optional paid plans | Free tier with optional paid plans | One-time license for the host | Free tier with optional paid plans |
| Free option | Yes, with limits | Yes, with limits | No; the host needs a license | Yes, with limits |
| Hosting | Managed web service | Managed web service | Host runs a server or hosting | Managed web service |
| Player access | Account and web browser | Account and web browser | Browser; players do not buy a license | Browser joining can be anonymous |
| Setup effort | Guided campaign setup | Broad configuration options | Hosting setup required | Fast, lightweight setup |
| Primary focus | Campaign, community and VTT together | VTT with rules automation | Extensible VTT with modules | Lightweight, map-first tabletop |
What free means in practice
DiceRoll, Roll20 and Owlbear Rodeo limit their free tiers; check current official pricing.
Foundry VTT requires a host license, while self-hosting or paid hosting may add costs.
Storage, AI and advanced features vary by plan and can change.
How this comparison was made
We do not choose a universal winner. We compare pricing model, hosting, player entry, setup effort and product focus. Facts come from official sources; recommendations are our interpretation for different groups.
This compares entry cost, not total campaign cost. Include administration time, hosting and the features you will actually use.
DiceRoll is not affiliated with Roll20, Foundry VTT or Owlbear Rodeo. Their names are used only to describe alternatives fairly; no third-party logos are used.
Official sources
Use these links to verify features, pricing models and current terms.
DiceRoll
Roll20
Foundry VTT
Owlbear Rodeo
Related guides
A free VTT for playing tabletop RPGs online
See what you can use for free in DiceRoll, understand the practical limits and try a real browser-based virtual tabletop demo.
Open pageWhich VTT is best for your group?
Compare DiceRoll, Roll20, Foundry VTT and Owlbear Rodeo by price, hosting, setup and play style, with methodology and sources.
Open pageA VTT for beginners without needless complexity
A practical VTT guide for beginners: what the game master prepares, what players need and how to start an online tabletop RPG without needless complexity.
Open pageWhat is a virtual tabletop? A plain-language VTT guide
A practical definition of virtual tabletops, the jobs they perform and the trade-offs that matter when choosing one.
Open page