# HTMLPick vs HTMLrev: choose a template directory by your task

By HTMLPick
Published: 2026-10-03
Updated: 2026-10-03

Start with HTMLrev when a catalogue of free templates is your main requirement. Start with HTMLPick when you want framework browsing and listing source details. Use either directory to find candidates. Check the author project before you choose one.

HTMLPick publishes this comparison. We reviewed the public directory pages and HTMLPick source on 3 October 2026. We did not test the listed templates. The recommendations describe selection tasks. They do not rank template quality.

## What does each directory provide?

[HTMLrev describes its catalogue](https://htmlrev.com/about.html) as free templates, themes, and UI libraries across several technologies. It selects entries and links to creator websites. It does not host the template files.

HTMLPick lists free and paid templates from independent creators. Its [framework categories](/categories/frameworks) help visitors narrow the catalogue. A listing can show its source update date, licence details, and author destinations. Missing information still needs a check at the source.

| Selection question | HTMLPick | HTMLrev |
| --- | --- | --- |
| What price scope does the directory describe? | Free and paid templates | Free templates |
| How can I narrow the search? | Framework and use-case archives | Technology categories |
| Where do I check a candidate? | Listing details and author links | Creator website |
| Who provides the template files? | The linked creator or source | The linked creator or source |

The table describes directory functions. It does not establish the licence, support, or condition of an individual download.

## Choose from the work you need to complete

Write one sentence about your project before you browse. Include its purpose, framework, and editing needs. For example: “I need an Astro blog with an editing process that I can maintain.”

If free downloads define your shortlist, HTMLrev provides a relevant starting catalogue. If your task needs a framework and a purpose together, open an HTMLPick archive. The [Astro blog archive](/templates/f/astro/blog) gives that example a focused destination.

These are conditional recommendations. A directory can help you find a project. It cannot decide whether the project fits your content or hosting.

## Use the same selection record

Keep the comparison fair when candidates come from different directories. Use one record for each author project:

- The project URL and the reviewed revision or download version.
- The licence file and any separate asset terms.
- The location of page content and configuration.
- The documented build and hosting requirements.
- The services needed for forms, search, accounts, or payments.
- The update and support information supplied by the author.

Record an unknown value as unknown. A directory label is a starting point for further checks. It is not a substitute for the actual package terms.

The [template selection guide](/guides/choose-a-website-template) explains how to turn this record into a shortlist. The [licence guide](/guides/free-vs-paid-template-licences) identifies documents to inspect before reuse.

## Try one ordinary content change

Choose a realistic task for each shortlisted template. Add a page title, an image, and a paragraph from your own project. Find the navigation entry that leads to it.

Follow the template's instructions in your own review environment. Record unclear steps and missing requirements. Compare the editing process as well as the appearance.

A demo with short headings can conceal the work needed for your real content. Our [real-content review](/blog/test-template-with-real-content) provides examples for this check.

## What about sponsorship?

HTMLPick offers separately labelled [sponsor positions](/sponsor). Payment does not establish a template quality score. A sponsor label describes a commercial placement.

Keep the same selection criteria when a candidate appears in a paid position. Read the source, record the version, and check the required work. The placement does not complete those checks for you.

## Where should you start?

Open HTMLrev when you want to browse its free catalogue. Open [HTMLPick templates](/templates) when you want to compare across its framework and use-case archives.

Choose the next step from your project requirements. Select the final template from evidence about the author project.