Apache Spark vs MotherDuck: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Apache Spark and MotherDuck 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 22, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Apache Spark
Unified analytics engine for big data
Best for you if:
- • You need data visualization features specifically
- • Apache Spark is a multi-language engine for large-scale data engineering, data science, and machine learning.
- • It supports batch and real-time streaming data processing, SQL analytics, and scales from single-node machines to clusters.
MotherDuck
Ducking Simple Data Warehouse based on DuckDB for fast, scalable analytics.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.4/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need big data analytics features specifically
- • Cloud data warehouse built on DuckDB for fast, scalable analytics.
- • Supports internal BI, customer-facing analytics, and various data formats.
| At a Glance |  Apache Spark |  MotherDuck |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Data Visualization | Big Data Analytics |
Rating | —/100 | 74/100 |
| Feature | Apache Spark | MotherDuck |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Open_source | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 74 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 145 | 0 |
| Categories | Data VisualizationETL & Data Pipelines | Big Data AnalyticsManaged Databases |
How Apache Spark and MotherDuck Compare
Apache Spark
Unified analytics engine for big data
Paid
MotherDuck
Ducking Simple Data Warehouse based on DuckDB for fast, scalable analytics.
Free tier available · 74/100 score
Apache Spark is a data visualization tool. MotherDuck is in big data analytics.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are open_source. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: MotherDuck
Want the highest-rated option?
MotherDuck scores 74/100. Apache Spark is unrated.
Go with: MotherDuck
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: MotherDuck
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Apache Spark is open_source. MotherDuck is freemium. MotherDuck lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Apache Spark is a data visualization tool. MotherDuck 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
MotherDuck
- Higher score: 74/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Apache Spark
- More community upvotes (145)
- Better fit for data visualization
The Bottom Line
MotherDuck (74/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Apache Spark or MotherDuck better?
MotherDuck scores 74/100 in our evaluation. Apache Spark is open_source and MotherDuck is freemium.
What are Apache Spark and MotherDuck used for?
Apache Spark: Unified analytics engine for big data. MotherDuck: Ducking Simple Data Warehouse based on DuckDB for fast, scalable analytics..
What does Apache Spark cost vs MotherDuck?
Apache Spark is a paid tool. MotherDuck is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.