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Choosing an online LaTeX editor is an important decision for academic writing. This comparison looks at both LaTeX Cloud Studio and Overleaf to help you make an informed choice.

Quick Comparison Overview

FeatureLaTeX Cloud StudioOverleaf
Real-time CollaborationYesYes
Package Support4,000+ (TeX Live)4,000+ (TeX Live)
Git IntegrationPlannedPremium
Template LibraryGrowingExtensive
Track ChangesPlannedPremium
AI FeaturesPlannedLimited
GDPR/EU StorageYesYes

An Honest Look at Both Platforms

About Overleaf

Overleaf is the established leader in online LaTeX editing. It has:
  • Years of development and a mature feature set
  • Large template library with thousands of options
  • Publisher partnerships for direct journal submission
  • Large community with extensive support resources
  • Track changes and commenting (on premium plans)
  • Rich text mode for users who prefer visual editing
  • Institutional partnerships with many universities

About LaTeX Cloud Studio

We’re a newer platform building an alternative with:
  • GDPR compliance with EU data storage
  • Modern interface designed for focus
  • Full TeX Live distribution with 4,000+ packages
  • Real-time collaboration features
  • Planned AI features currently in development
  • Privacy-focused approach to data handling

Feature Comparison

Editor Experience

Both platforms offer:
  • Syntax highlighting
  • Auto-completion for LaTeX commands
  • Split view with source and preview
  • Real-time PDF preview
Overleaf adds:
  • Rich text mode for visual editing
  • Track changes (premium)
  • Extensive keyboard shortcuts
LaTeX Cloud Studio focuses on:
  • Clean, distraction-free interface
  • Modern web technologies
  • Privacy-first design

Collaboration

Both platforms support real-time collaboration where multiple users can edit simultaneously. Overleaf strengths:
  • Mature commenting system
  • Track changes for review workflows (premium)
  • Established sharing mechanisms
LaTeX Cloud Studio approach:
  • Simple collaboration with sharing links
  • Permission levels for documents
  • Real-time presence indicators

Template Library

Overleaf has a significant advantage here with:
  • Thousands of templates
  • Official journal templates
  • University-specific formats
  • Community contributions
LaTeX Cloud Studio has:
  • A growing template collection
  • Common academic formats
  • Plans to expand the library

Version Control

Overleaf offers:
  • Git integration (premium plans)
  • GitHub/GitLab sync
  • Version history
LaTeX Cloud Studio has:
  • Version history
  • Git integration (planned)

Privacy and Data

LaTeX Cloud Studio:
  • GDPR compliant
  • EU data storage
  • Privacy-focused approach
  • Documents encrypted
Overleaf:
  • GDPR compliant
  • Multiple data center options
  • Institutional plans available

Pricing

Both platforms offer free tiers with limitations and paid plans for additional features. Overleaf pricing includes various tiers from free to professional and team plans. LaTeX Cloud Studio also offers free and paid options. Visit our website for current pricing.
Check both platforms’ websites for the most up-to-date pricing information.

Who Should Choose Which?

Choose Overleaf If You:

  • Need access to an extensive template library
  • Want track changes for collaborative review
  • Prefer a mature, well-established platform
  • Need publisher integrations for journal submission
  • Have institutional access through your university
  • Want Git integration now (premium)

Choose LaTeX Cloud Studio If You:

  • Prioritize EU data storage and privacy
  • Want a modern, clean editing experience
  • Are looking for an Overleaf alternative
  • Value our upcoming features (AI, Git integration)
  • Prefer supporting newer platforms

Migration Guide

If you want to try LaTeX Cloud Studio with your existing projects:

Step 1: Export from Overleaf

  1. Open your project in Overleaf
  2. Click Menu → Download → Source
  3. Save the ZIP file

Step 2: Import to LaTeX Cloud Studio

  1. Log in to LaTeX Cloud Studio
  2. Create a new project
  3. Upload your files
  4. Verify compilation
Both platforms use the same TeX Live distribution, so most documents should compile without changes.

Conclusion

Both LaTeX Cloud Studio and Overleaf are capable online LaTeX editors. Overleaf is the established choice with a mature feature set, extensive templates, and proven track record. LaTeX Cloud Studio is a newer alternative focusing on privacy, modern design, and planned AI features. The best choice depends on your specific needs. We encourage you to try both platforms and see which works better for your workflow.
Ready to try LaTeX Cloud Studio? Visit our website to create a free account, or explore our LaTeX tutorials to get started.
Have questions? Check our documentation or contact us for help.