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Citation.js

Free#14 of 29 in Citation Generator Tools

Citation.js: A programmable, open-source citation toolkit for developers working with bibliographic data. Ranked #14 of 29 in Citation Generator Tools by our editors (8.1/10); pricing: Open source; best for developers needing programmable citation conversion.

8.1/10Editor score

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Citation.js8.1 Visit Citation.js

At a glance

Editor score
8.1 / 10
Pricing
Open source
Best for
Developers needing programmable citation conversion
Paid from
Free
Facts checked
20 Sep 2026

Where it wins
- Converts BibTeX, RIS, and other formats to and from CSL-JSON
- Supports CSL citation and bibliography formatting
- Runs in browsers, Node.js, and the command line
Where it doesn't
- Developer-focused rather than a hosted citation-management application
- End-user integrations are not a stated part of its positioning
- Identifier and format coverage depends on available plugins

Our verdict on Citation.js

Citation.js is an open-source JavaScript toolkit for developers who need to parse, convert, and format bibliographic metadata. It supports browser and Node.js use, includes a command-line interface, and provides a modular plugin architecture for formats and identifier services. Its supported workflows include converting bibliographic data to and from CSL-JSON, formatting citations and bibliographies with CSL styles, and working with inputs such as BibTeX, BibLaTeX, RIS, DOI, ISBN, PubMed, and Wikidata.

Its strongest fit is programmable citation conversion across different environments. Developers can use the library in web projects, Node.js applications, or command-line workflows, while the published feature set includes BibTeX and BibLaTeX input and output, RIS input and output, and DOI identifier lookup. Plugins for ISBN, PubMed, and Wikidata identifiers extend the conversion workflow beyond file-based references. This makes Citation.js suitable for software that needs structured bibliographic data, citation rendering, or format exchange rather than a fixed end-user interface.

The main trade-off is its developer orientation. Citation.js is a library and CLI, not a hosted citation-management application, so it suits teams prepared to incorporate JavaScript tooling or command-line processes into their workflow. Its modular design can support tailored format and identifier handling, but coverage depends on the supported plugins and formats relevant to a project. Choose Citation.js when programmable control, CSL formatting, browser or Node.js support, and bibliographic conversion are priorities. Choose another tool when the primary need is a ready-to-use citation manager or established end-user integrations.

Your product? Our editors can test Citation.js in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →

Citation.js pricing

Plans Open sourceFree Free to use — no paid tier required for the core job.

See plans on citation.js.org

Citation.js fact sheet

Free plan	Not verified
Paid from	Free
Citation style count	Not verified
Identifier lookup	Yes
URL import	Yes
Browser extension	Not verified
Word add-in	Not verified
BibTeX export	Yes
Deployment	Cloud
Platforms	Web
Support	Docs
Built for	Solo, Small business (editorial estimate)
Pricing	Open source
Website	citation.js.org
Facts checked	20 Sep 2026

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Featured on iTechGuides

Citation.js is listed in our Citation Generator Tools directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.

Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update