Apache APISIX vs Kong: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Apache APISIX and Kong 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 March 22, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Apache APISIX
Cloud-native API Gateway and AI Gateway for managing APIs and AI workloads.
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need something completely free
- • Open-source, cloud-native API Gateway and AI Gateway.
- • Provides dynamic traffic management, security, and observability for microservices.
Kong
API gateway and platform
Best for you if:
- 0
- • Kong is an API gateway and platform for managing, securing, and monitoring APIs
- • It provides rate limiting, authentication, and traffic control for microservices
| At a Glance |  Apache APISIX |  Kong |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | — | — |
| Feature | Apache APISIX | Kong |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsWorkflow Automation | API ToolsHosting & Deployment |
How Apache APISIX and Kong Compare
Apache APISIX
Cloud-native API Gateway and AI Gateway for managing APIs and AI workloads.
Free
Kong
API gateway and platform
Free tier available
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Apache APISIX is free. Kong is freemium.
Go with: Apache APISIX
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Apache APISIX
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Apache APISIX
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Apache APISIX is free. Kong is freemium. Go with Apache APISIX if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are api tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Apache APISIX
- 0
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Kong
The Bottom Line
Apache APISIX is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Apache APISIX or Kong better?
Apache APISIX is rated high in our evaluation. Apache APISIX is free and Kong is freemium.
What are Apache APISIX and Kong used for?
Apache APISIX: Cloud-native API Gateway and AI Gateway for managing APIs and AI workloads.. Kong: API gateway and platform.
What does Apache APISIX cost vs Kong?
Apache APISIX is completely free. Kong is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.