Both RefWorks and EndNote allow you to easily import references into a database for storing and organizing, and then make it a snap to use those records for inserting citations and generating a bibliography in a word document.
Which one is right for you? The table below highlights differences. The most significant differences are that RefWorks is web-based, easy to learn, and free to the Cornell community. EndNote must be purchased and loaded onto a computer, but it is also fuller-featured and more customizable—and thus has a steeper learning curve.
Current EndNote users might find RefWorks a handy tool to use for research on the go. Anything imported into RefWorks can easily be transferred to EndNote later (and vice versa).
For questions about either program, contact CITEMANAGE-L@cornell.edu.
RefWorks vs. EndNote—A Comparison
| RefWorks |
EndNote |
|
| Where can I use it? |
Anywhere with web access |
On computers with
EndNote installed. |
| How much does it cost? |
Free to Cornell faculty, staff and students (including Qatar, &NYC, &Geneva) while working or studying at Cornell |
Individual copy
must be purchased. |
| Is it easy to learn? |
Basics are easy to learn |
Medium |
| Campus Workshops available? |
Yes: schedule |
Yes: schedule |
| Where are my files stored? |
Remotely, on the web (local backups may be made as well) |
Locally, on your computer |
| Search compatible databases directly from program? |
Yes, depending on database |
Yes, depending on database |
| Export directly to program from database? |
Yes, depending on database |
Yes, depending on database |
| How many output styles (MLA, APA, etc.)? |
Over 500 |
Over 1000 |
| Modify and create output styles? |
Yes |
Yes |
| Modify and create import filters? |
No, must be requested from RefWorks |
Yes |
| Import Word bibliographies or Excel documents? |
Technically yes,
with custom markup & filter, but cutting |
Yes, with custom
markup & filter, but only worth it |
| Insert full text? |
Yes, cut and paste text into one of the user fields |
Yes; limit is about 5000 words per field |
| References include link to “Get it! Cornell”? |
Yes |
Yes, using Enable Open URL feature |
| Link to images and other files stored locally? |
Yes |
Yes |
| Store attachments-- images, mp3, PowerPoint, and other files with citation? |
Yes - |
Yes |
| Automatically format Word docs on a Mac? |
Yes |
Yes |
| Write papers offline? |
Yes, with workaround |
Yes |
| Compatibility issues? |
None |
Libraries created in earlier versions must be converted |
| Work collaboratively with colleagues? |
Yes—groups at Cornell can create a shared account |
Yes, but more difficult—an administrator puts an Endnote library online. Must have server space |
| Import EndNote files into RefWorks, and vice versa? |
Yes—export from Endnote with “RefMan(RIS) Export” output style & import into RefWorks with “EndNote (RIS)” filter |
Yes—export from RefWorks with “Bibliographic Software” output style & import with “Reference Manage (RIS)” filter |
| What happens when I leave Cornell? |
Export data to other programs (Excel, Word, EndNote, etc). Many universities now have RefWorks. Individual subscriptions available for purchase. |
EndNote stays on your computer; new versions must be purchased. |