OpenAdaptOpenAdapt vs Selenium
Use Selenium when you already run WebDriver tests or need a standards-based driver across languages and a Grid. Use OpenAdapt when the person who does the task should show it instead of coding it, when the screen isn't a browser, or when each save should be read back and a mismatch should stop.
Updated 2026-10-18
At a glance
| Selenium | OpenAdapt | |
|---|---|---|
| Best fit | Browser automation and tests | Repeated entries into a system with no usable API, where a wrong save matters |
| Who builds it | A developer, in code | We build it with you from a demonstration |
| How a normal run works | Runs WebDriver commands against selected elements | A program learned from a demonstration repeats the same steps (tested on open-source systems) |
| AI model calls on a normal run | None unless the author adds one | 0 in every recorded OpenAdapt run (measured) |
| Proof the record saved | Assertions or checks the developer adds | Reads the saved record back, where your system allows a second read (tested) |
| When it isn't sure | Raises an error when a wait or command fails | Stops and asks a person; never retries a save it couldn't confirm (tested) |
| Where it runs | Your machines, or a remote Grid | A computer you control; MIT-licensed engine |
| Citrix and remote desktop | Browsers only | Remote desktop tested, including a real Windows 11 computer (3 of 3) |
| Published price | Free, open source | Free to run locally. Team $499 a month. Healthcare and enterprise qualification sprints from $15k. The engine is free. |
Where Selenium is stronger
- WebDriver became a W3C Recommendation in 2018.
- Local and remote sessions, including distributed Grid.
- Bindings for Java, Python, C#, Ruby and JavaScript.
- Teams can keep existing tests and practices.
Which to choose
- Choose Selenium when you run WebDriver already, or need a Grid across many browsers.
- Choose OpenAdapt when the person who does the task should be able to show it, or when each save should be read back and a mismatch should stop.
Related: Hand-written scripts · API or screen automation · How it works · All comparisons
Sources
- Selenium documentation (selenium.dev): WebDriver, Grid, waits; W3C WebDriver Recommendation (w3.org/TR/2018/REC-webdriver1-20180605); read August 2026.
See it on your process
Bring one task your team types every day. We'll tell you whether it fits, and what a test on your own system would cover.