Best Virtual Tabletops for D&D: Roll20 vs Fantasy Grounds & More

Rachel Dove
18 hours ago
2 min read

Online Dungeons & Dragons has exploded in popularity, and virtual tabletops (VTTs) are at the heart of the experience. Whether you’re a Game Master looking to streamline your campaign or a player who wants immersive maps and easy dice rolls, the right VTT can make all the difference. Here’s a look at the top platforms, their features, and tips for picking the best fit for your group.

Why Use a Virtual Tabletop?

Virtual tabletops let you play D&D online with friends, no matter where they are. You get digital maps, tokens, automated dice rollers, and plenty of tools to keep your adventure running smoothly. Many players are searching for:

Best virtual tabletop for D&D
Roll20 vs Fantasy Grounds
D&D virtual tabletop comparison
D&D online tools
Playing D&D on Discord

Roll20: The Popular Choice

Roll20 is one of the most widely used VTTs, and for good reason:

Free to use for basic features, with paid upgrades available
Browser-based, no downloads required
Huge library of maps, tokens, and modules
Built-in audio and video chat
Active community and lots of support

Roll20 is great for new players and groups who want to jump right in without a steep learning curve.

Fantasy Grounds: A Powerhouse for Dedicated Groups

Fantasy Grounds is a powerful VTT with a lot of automation, but it’s a bit more complex:

Requires a download (Windows/Mac/Linux)
One-time purchase or subscription options
Automated character sheets and combat trackers
Great for long-term campaigns and groups who want deep customization

Fantasy Grounds is ideal for DMs who love tinkering and players who want a robust, long-term platform.

Other Notable VTTs

Foundry VTT: Paid, highly customizable, and loved for its flexibility and modding community.
Owlbear Rodeo: Free, lightweight, and perfect for quick games or one-shots.
Tabletop Simulator: 3D sandbox for a more hands-on, board-game feel (paid, on Steam).

Each platform has its own vibe, so it’s worth trying out a few to see what feels right for your group.

Playing D&D on Discord

Don’t forget that many groups use Discord for voice, video, and text chat alongside their VTT. Some even run entire games through Discord with dice bots and shared images.

Tips for Choosing Your VTT

Consider your group’s needs: Do you want lots of automation or just the basics?
Check your budget: Some platforms are free, others are paid.
Try out the free versions before committing.
Look for platforms with active communities and support.

Ready to Start Your Next Campaign?

No matter which VTT you choose, the real magic comes from your group’s creativity and collaboration. Explore the options, try out a few sessions, and see what works best for you.

Download the app to start swiping for your party and find your next online group!

Share your favorite virtual tabletop or tips in the comments, or join our Discord to connect with more D&D fans.