Codex

At a glance

• Editor score
  6.2 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  Self-hosters who want metadata search and OPDS
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  Free
• Facts checked
  13 Oct 2026

• Where it wins

  • Reads CBZ, CBR, CB7, CBT, and PDF comics.
  • Searches comic metadata and bookmarks; filters include per-user unread status.
  • Supports OPDS 1 and 2 with streaming, search, and authentication.

• Where it doesn't

  • Requires the user to run it on their own server or machine.
  • Windows support is documented through Docker or Windows Subsystem for Linux.
  • Support channels are community and documentation.

Our verdict on Codex

Codex is a web application for browsing and reading a personal comic archive hosted on the user's own server or machine. It suits solo readers and small setups that want to organize comic files rather than rely on a separate commercial library service. It reads CBZ, CBR, CB7, CBT, and PDF files, and groups collections by publisher, imprint, series, volume, folder, or story arc. The project is free, open-source software under the GPLv3 license.

Library upkeep is tied to the filesystem: Codex automatically imports new or changed comics when files change. Readers can search metadata and bookmarks, filter and sort by metadata, and use per-user unread status. Tags can be edited in the browser, with changes written back to files; bookmarks and reading settings are also per user. These tools make it a good fit for maintaining a personal archive with searchable catalog details. Readers who mainly want a hosted service without server or machine administration should look elsewhere.

OPDS 1 and 2 support provides catalog syndication with streaming, search, and authentication. For shared access, listed options include OIDC, Authentik, Authelia, and Remote-User HTTP header SSO. The web interface is documented for Linux and macOS, while Windows support is via Docker or Windows Subsystem for Linux rather than a native Windows app. Community and documentation are the listed support channels. Codex is a strong match for self-hosters who value file-based control, per-user reading settings, and OPDS; readers seeking native Windows installation or a managed hosted reading experience should consider alternatives.

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Codex pricing

Codex fact sheet

Codex integrations

Codex lists 5 integrations on its own site.

• OPDS
• OIDC
• Authentik
• Authelia
• Remote-User HTTP header SSO

Alternatives to Codex

• KomikkuA free Linux reader for online manga and local comics, with library and series tracking.9.1
• YYACReaderA free desktop reader and server pair with mobile apps for browsing and progress sync.7.9
• KKavitaA free, open-source reader and library for people who want to host their own comics and ebooks.7.8

See all Codex alternatives →

Featured on iTechGuides

Codex is listed in our Comic Book Reader Apps 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

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Last updated 29 Oct 2026 · How we research and update