Alamy vs Pixabay: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Alamy and Pixabay 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:
Alamy
Access a vast library of authentic stock photos, videos, and vectors for all your creative projects.
Best for you if:
- • Provides a vast library of authentic stock photos, videos, and vectors.
- • Offers specialized services and licensing for enterprise and production needs.
Pixabay
Discover and share stunning royalty-free images, videos, and music.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Vast library of royalty-free stock assets.
- • Includes images, videos, and music.
| At a Glance |  Alamy |  Pixabay |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Stock Assets | Stock Assets |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Alamy | Pixabay |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Stock Assets | Stock Assets |
How Alamy and Pixabay Compare
Alamy
Access a vast library of authentic stock photos, videos, and vectors for all your creative projects.
Paid
Pixabay
Discover and share stunning royalty-free images, videos, and music.
Free tier available
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Pixabay has a free tier. Alamy is paid only.
Go with: Pixabay
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: Alamy
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Alamy
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Alamy is paid. Pixabay is freemium. Pixabay lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are stock assets tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Alamy
- Our pick for this comparison
Pixabay
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Alamy is our pick. Pixabay has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alamy or Pixabay better?
Alamy scores high/100 in our evaluation. Alamy is paid and Pixabay is freemium.
What are Alamy and Pixabay used for?
Alamy: Access a vast library of authentic stock photos, videos, and vectors for all your creative projects.. Pixabay: Discover and share stunning royalty-free images, videos, and music..
What does Alamy cost vs Pixabay?
Alamy is a paid tool. Pixabay is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.