Aerospike vs Dragonfly: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Aerospike and Dragonfly comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Aerospike
Real-time NoSQL database for high performance
Best for you if:
- • You need database builders features specifically
- • Aerospike is a real-time NoSQL database designed for AI applications, offering in-memory speeds at disk prices through its patented Hybrid Memory Architecture.
- • It provides predictable performance with industry-leading tail latency, relational-grade consistency (ACID-compliant transactions), and cost-efficiency at scale.
Dragonfly
An in-memory data store for massive workloads, offering Redis/Valkey/Memcached compatibility and superior performance.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • 25x faster than Redis with 80% cost reduction.
- • 100% API compatible with Redis, Valkey, and Memcached.
| At a Glance |  Aerospike |  Dragonfly |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Database Builders | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Aerospike | Dragonfly |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 69 | 0 |
| Categories | Database BuildersManaged Databases | API ToolsManaged Databases |
How Aerospike and Dragonfly Compare
Aerospike
Real-time NoSQL database for high performance
Free tier available
Dragonfly
An in-memory data store for massive workloads, offering Redis/Valkey/Memcached compatibility and superior performance.
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Aerospike is a database builders tool. Dragonfly is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Aerospike
Want the highest-rated option?
Dragonfly scores 86/100. Aerospike is unrated.
Go with: Dragonfly
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Dragonfly
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Aerospike is a database builders tool. Dragonfly is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Dragonfly
- Higher score: 86/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Aerospike
- More community upvotes (69)
- Better fit for database builders
The Bottom Line
Dragonfly (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Aerospike or Dragonfly better?
Dragonfly scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Aerospike and Dragonfly used for?
Aerospike: Real-time NoSQL database for high performance. Dragonfly: An in-memory data store for massive workloads, offering Redis/Valkey/Memcached compatibility and superior performance..
What does Aerospike cost vs Dragonfly?
Aerospike is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Dragonfly is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.