Scopus or Web of Science: Which database to choose?

Scopus and Web of Science are two leading scientometrics databases that play a key role in the global scientific community. Choosing between them is one of the most pressing issues for researchers planning to publish internationally. Which database should you choose? In this article, we will look at the advantages and differences of each platform and help you make the right choice.

What is the Scopus database?

Scopus is one of the world's largest international databases of scientific publications and citations, created by Elsevier. The database covers a wide range of scientific disciplines, from natural and technical to medical, with a special focus on the humanities.

Scopus provides scientists, teachers, and researchers from around the world with the opportunity to search for relevant scientific information, analyse publication citations, track authors' scientific activity, etc. This makes Scopus a key tool for academic activities and strategic planning of publication activities. Read more about this database in our previous article.

What is the Web of Science database?

Web of Science is an authoritative international scientometrics database owned by Clarivate. It covers the most influential scientific journals from various fields of knowledge, including natural, technical, medical, social and humanities sciences. 

The database is based on journals that have undergone a rigorous selection process and are included in indices such as the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCIE), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Arts and Humanities Citation Index (AHCI), and others. Web of Science allows you to track citations, analyse trends in science, etc. Thanks to its high content quality requirements, it is an important tool for scientists seeking international recognition and academic growth. Read more about Web of Science in our previous article.

Scopus content

• 27,000+ peer-reviewed scientific journals
• 240,000+ books and book series
• 9.8 million conference proceedings
• 17.5 million author profiles
• 195 million bibliographic references
• Records covering the period from 1788 to the present day
• 18.8 million records for the period 1970-1995

Web of Science content

• 34,000+ peer-reviewed journals in the Core Collection
• 120,000+ scientific books (via the Book Citation Index)
• 1.4 billion citations
• Records from 1864 to the present day
• 10 additional databases (BIOSIS, DII, MEDLINE, etc.)
• 8 main indexes

Subject area

Although both Scopus and Web of Science are positioned as multidisciplinary platforms, there is a difference in subject area between them. Below is a comparative table of Scopus and Web of Science disciplines:

Which is better: Scopus or Web of Science?

It is impossible to say unequivocally which database is better. Both databases play an important role in the scientific community and are often used as complementary resources.

Key differences between Scopus and Web of Science

1. Metrics and evaluation methods. Although both platforms use the concepts of “quartile” and “percentile”, these indicators are calculated using different algorithms. Scopus uses CiteScore and SJR (SCImago Journal Rank) metrics, while Web of Science uses JIF (Journal Impact Factor) is the key indicator. 
2. Data volume. Web of Science has a longer history and provides greater citation depth, including archival data dating back to 1864. Scopus covers a wider range of contemporary sources, although it appeared later, with some materials dating back to 1788.
3. Subjects of indexed publications. There is a certain specialisation: Scopus is slightly more oriented towards the humanities, social sciences and applied sciences, while Web of Science focuses on the exact and natural sciences.
4. Structure. The most well-known structural part of WOS is the Web of Science Core Collection, which is considered the basis of the database and consists of 8 citation indexes. Scopus is a more integrated platform without division into collections.
5. Interaction with other platforms. Scopus interacts closely with the SciVal analytical platform, which allows for in-depth analysis of scientific productivity. Web of Science is integrated with InCites, a system for assessing research potential at the level of individual authors, institutions, and countries. This is due to the owners: Scopus is owned by Elsevier, and Web of Science is owned by Clarivate.

Double indexing

Some scientific journals are indexed in both Scopus and Web of Science, which partially eliminates the problem of choosing between these platforms. However, it is extremely difficult to get into such publications. These scientific journals have the most stringent requirements for the quality of materials, a thorough editorial policy, and consistently high scientometric indicators. 

Publication in such a journal is considered a prestigious and significant event for the author, as it confirms the international level of research and opens up new opportunities for academic growth.
The final choice of the database for publication remains with the researcher, but it is worth remembering the features of each platform. 

Need help choosing a journal? Contact Scientific Publications! We will provide professional advice and a free audit of your scientific article for successful publication in Scopus or Web of Science ranked journals. Get a free consultation by filling out the form below, and a manager will contact you shortly. Together towards successful publication!