Amundsen vs Steampipe: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Amundsen and Steampipe 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:
Amundsen
Open-source data discovery and metadata engine for enhanced data trust and productivity.
Best for you if:
- • You need documentation features specifically
- • Open-source data catalog for discovering and trusting data.
- • Automates metadata collection and facilitates context sharing.
Steampipe
Dynamically query APIs, code, and cloud resources with SQL for Zero-ETL insights.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need big data analytics features specifically
- • Queries cloud APIs and other data sources using SQL.
- • Provides a Zero-ETL approach for real-time data access.
| At a Glance |  Amundsen |  Steampipe |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Documentation | Big Data Analytics |
Rating | —/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Amundsen | Steampipe |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | DocumentationETL & Data Pipelines | Big Data AnalyticsBusiness Intelligence |
How Amundsen and Steampipe Compare
Amundsen
Open-source data discovery and metadata engine for enhanced data trust and productivity.
Free
Steampipe
Dynamically query APIs, code, and cloud resources with SQL for Zero-ETL insights.
Free · 88/100 score
Amundsen is a documentation tool. Steampipe is in big data analytics.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Amundsen
Want the highest-rated option?
Steampipe scores 88/100. Amundsen is unrated.
Go with: Steampipe
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Steampipe
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Amundsen is a documentation tool. Steampipe is in big data analytics. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Steampipe
- Higher score: 88/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Amundsen
- Better fit for documentation
The Bottom Line
Steampipe (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amundsen or Steampipe better?
Steampipe scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Amundsen and Steampipe used for?
Amundsen: Open-source data discovery and metadata engine for enhanced data trust and productivity.. Steampipe: Dynamically query APIs, code, and cloud resources with SQL for Zero-ETL insights..
What does Amundsen cost vs Steampipe?
Amundsen is completely free. Steampipe is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.