Abstract: This study compares Zhihu and Quora users’ attitudes toward preprint platforms to reveal differences in platform perception across cultural contexts. Data were collected via Python scripts, and LDA topic modeling and sentiment analysis were applied to extract positive and negative themes. Findings show that Chinese users exhibit a utilitarian orientation, focusing on functionality, workflow standardization, and research output protection, with expectations for efficient support for scientific progress. In contrast, international users emphasize the social value and responsibility of preprints, viewing them through the lens of long-term academic communication impact. These differences highlight the multi-level demands of distinct academic cultures. The study suggests that Chinese preprint platforms should enhance content quality and dissemination efficiency, strengthen copyright protection and policy support, and foster academic communities and interactive mechanisms to boost international influence and balance academic norms.