The Open Access Button is a browser bookmarklet that allows users to access research articles that are behind paywalls. It helps users find open access versions of articles or request them from authors. However, there are several alternatives and competitors available in 2024 that offer similar or even better features. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best Open Access Button alternatives and competitors in 2024.

1. Unpaywall

Unpaywall is a browser extension that helps users find free, legal copies of research papers. It automatically searches for open access versions of articles as users browse the web. With access to millions of open access articles, Unpaywall is an excellent alternative to the Open Access Button for users looking for a more comprehensive solution.

2. Open Access Helper

Open Access Helper is a browser extension that helps users access open access content. It provides links to open access versions of articles and helps users request articles from authors. With a user-friendly interface and extensive database of open access sources, Open Access Helper is a compelling alternative to the Open Access Button.

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3. CORE Discovery

CORE Discovery is a search engine for open access articles. It provides access to millions of open access articles and helps users find relevant content quickly. With its easy-to-use interface and extensive database of open access sources, CORE Discovery is a strong alternative to the Open Access Button for users looking for a more powerful search engine.

4. ScienceOpen

ScienceOpen is a research network and discovery platform that provides access to open access articles. It offers a range of tools for researchers, including article collections, peer review, and post-publication commentary. With its comprehensive search engine and community-driven approach, ScienceOpen is an excellent alternative to the Open Access Button for users interested in collaborating with other researchers.

5. DOAJ

DOAJ (Directory of Open Access Journals) is a comprehensive directory of open access journals. It provides access to thousands of peer-reviewed open access articles in a range of disciplines. With its extensive database of open access journals and user-friendly interface, DOAJ is a strong alternative to the Open Access Button for users looking for a more specialized source of open access content.

6. CORE Reader

CORE Reader is a browser extension that provides access to open access articles. It offers a range of tools for researchers, including highlighting, note-taking, and citation generation. With its user-friendly interface and powerful features, CORE Reader is an excellent alternative to the Open Access Button for users looking for a more advanced research tool.

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7. OpenAIRE

OpenAIRE is a platform that provides access to open access research outputs from across Europe. It offers a range of tools for researchers, including search functionality and data management services. With its extensive database of open access sources and easy-to-use interface, OpenAIRE is a compelling alternative to the Open Access Button for users interested in European research.

8. J-STAGE

J-STAGE is a platform that provides access to open access articles from Japanese academic societies. It offers a range of tools for researchers, including search functionality and citation information. With its specialized focus on Japanese research and easy-to-use interface, J-STAGE is a strong alternative to the Open Access Button for users interested in Japanese research.

9. PLOS ONE

PLOS ONE is an open access journal that publishes articles in a range of disciplines. It offers a rigorous peer review process and a commitment to open access publishing. With its extensive database of open access articles and focus on publishing high-quality research, PLOS ONE is an excellent alternative to the Open Access Button for users interested in open access publishing.

10. arXiv

arXiv is a repository of open access preprints in physics, mathematics, computer science, and other disciplines. It offers a range of tools for researchers, including search functionality and citation information. With its extensive database of preprints and focus on scientific research, arXiv is a strong alternative to the Open Access Button for users interested in cutting-edge research.

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In conclusion, while the Open Access Button is a useful tool for accessing open access articles, there are several alternatives and competitors available in 2024 that provide similar or even better features. Whether you're a researcher looking for open access sources or a user looking for a more powerful search engine, these alternatives offer a range of options to suit your needs. From browser extensions like Unpaywall and Open Access Helper to specialized platforms like J-STAGE and ScienceOpen, each alternative provides unique features and benefits. Consider your research goals and preferences to choose the best Open Access Button alternative for your needs.