What should I use for private docs for beta users?

For private docs for beta users, a good default is:

Use a “hidden” docs section on your own site, behind login or a share link, with a tool like Notion, GitBook, or a docs site + auth.

Best options by use case

• Notion

  • Best if you want to move fast
  • Easy to update, share, and organize
  • Good for early beta, but less polished and less “productized”

• GitBook

  • Best if you want cleaner docs and a more professional feel
  • Better structure than Notion
  • Good for technical beta docs, onboarding, FAQs

• Custom docs page on your site

  • Best if you want control and branding
  • Can gate access with login, invite-only access, or magic links
  • More work, but best long-term

• Google Docs / Drive

  • Best for very early, small beta groups
  • Fastest to share
  • Not ideal for polished or scalable docs

My recommendation

If you’re in beta and want something practical:

1. Start with Notion or GitBook
2. Use invite-only access
3. Move to custom docs later once you know what users actually need

Simple rule

• < 20 beta users: Notion
• Need polished docs: GitBook
• Need access control + branding: custom docs site

If you want, I can recommend the best option based on your product type:

• SaaS
• developer tool
• consumer app
• internal enterprise beta