Amazon DynamoDB vs RethinkDB: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Amazon DynamoDB and RethinkDB 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.
Bottom line: Amazon DynamoDB wins this matchup. PostgreSQL is our overall Data & Databases pick. PostgreSQL is our free Data & Databases pick. Pick RethinkDB if you need a fully free option.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Amazon DynamoDB
Serverless NoSQL database with single-digit millisecond latency
Best for you if:
- • You want fully managed NoSQL
- • You want single-digit millisecond latency
RethinkDB
Real-time database for modern apps
Best for you if:
- • You want a fully free tool (Amazon DynamoDB requires payment)
- • You want real-time database
- • You want good for live updates
| At a Glance | Amazon DynamoDB | RethinkDB |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $0.00065/WCU/hourProvisioned | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Data & Databases | Data & Databases |
Rating | 2.9/5 | 4.3/5 |
Free plan | No | Yes |
Choose Amazon DynamoDB or RethinkDB?
Choose Amazon DynamoDB if
Serverless NoSQL database with single-digit millisecond latency
- You want fully managed NoSQL
- You want single-digit millisecond latency
Choose RethinkDB if
Real-time database for modern apps
- You want a fully free tool (Amazon DynamoDB requires payment)
- You want real-time database
- You want good for live updates
| Feature | Amazon DynamoDB | RethinkDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| User Rating | ★2.9/5 951 reviews | ★4.3/5 15 reviews |
| Categories | Data & DatabasesCloud & Infrastructure | Data & DatabasesWebSocket Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
Amazon DynamoDB
Serverless NoSQL database with single-digit millisecond latency
DynamoDB's pricing is generally fair, especially with the generous Free Tier and the upcoming 50% price reduction in Jan 2025.
Strengths
- +Fully managed NoSQL
- +Single-digit millisecond latency
- +Scales automatically
- +Serverless option
- +Global tables
Weaknesses
- -Pricing complex
- -Query limitations
- -No joins or complex queries
- -Vendor lock-in
- -Learning curve for data modeling
Key features
RethinkDB
Real-time database for modern apps
RethinkDB's pricing is exceptionally generous, as it is entirely open-source and free.
Strengths
- +Real-time database
- +Good for live updates
- +Open source
- +Good query language
- +Push architecture
Weaknesses
- -Less popular now
- -Company dissolved
- -Community smaller
- -Production concerns
- -Better alternatives exist
Key features
Pricing: Amazon DynamoDB vs RethinkDB
| Plan | Amazon DynamoDB | RethinkDB |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Tier | Free Open Source |
| Tier 2 | $1.25 /1M writes On-Demand | N/A |
| Tier 3 | $0.00065 /WCU/hour Provisioned | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Amazon DynamoDB pricing and RethinkDB pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
RethinkDB is free. Amazon DynamoDB is paid.
Go with: RethinkDB
Want the highest-rated option?
Amazon DynamoDB: 2.9/5 (951 reviews). RethinkDB: 4.3/5 (15 reviews).
Go with: RethinkDB
Value user reviews?
Amazon DynamoDB: 951 reviews (2.9/5). RethinkDB: 15 reviews (4.3/5).
Go with: Amazon DynamoDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Amazon DynamoDB is paid. RethinkDB is free. Go with RethinkDB if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are data & databases tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
RethinkDB is rated higher: 4.3/5 vs 2.9/5.
Key Takeaways
Amazon DynamoDB
- Larger review base (951 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
RethinkDB
- Completely free
- Higher user rating: 4.3/5 vs 2.9/5
The Bottom Line
Amazon DynamoDB wins this matchup. PostgreSQL is our overall Data & Databases pick. PostgreSQL is our free Data & Databases pick. That said, RethinkDB is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amazon DynamoDB or RethinkDB better?
Amazon DynamoDB is rated in our evaluation. Amazon DynamoDB is paid and RethinkDB is free.
What are Amazon DynamoDB and RethinkDB used for?
Amazon DynamoDB: Serverless NoSQL database with single-digit millisecond latency. RethinkDB: Real-time database for modern apps.
What does Amazon DynamoDB cost vs RethinkDB?
Amazon DynamoDB is a paid tool. RethinkDB is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.