Apache Superset vs Looker: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Apache Superset and Looker 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:
Apache Superset
Open-source business intelligence and data visualization
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Apache Superset is an open-source business intelligence platform for data exploration and visualization
- • It creates interactive dashboards with a no-code interface and supports 40+ database connections
Looker
Business intelligence platform
Best for you if:
- • Embedded analytics for your product
- • White-label dashboards in your app
| At a Glance |  Apache Superset |  Looker |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Business Intelligence | Business Intelligence |
Rating | 86/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Apache Superset | Looker |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Business IntelligenceData Visualization | Business IntelligenceData Visualization |
How Apache Superset and Looker Compare
Apache Superset
Open-source business intelligence and data visualization
Free · 86/100 score
Looker
Business intelligence platform
Paid · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Apache Superset is free. Looker is paid.
Go with: Apache Superset
Want the highest-rated option?
Apache Superset: 86/100. Looker: 86/100.
Go with: Apache Superset
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Apache Superset
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Apache Superset is free. Looker is paid. Go with Apache Superset if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are business intelligence tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Both score 86/100.
Key Takeaways
Apache Superset
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Looker
The Bottom Line
Apache Superset (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Apache Superset or Looker better?
Apache Superset scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Apache Superset is free and Looker is paid.
What are Apache Superset and Looker used for?
Apache Superset: Open-source business intelligence and data visualization. Looker: Business intelligence platform.
What does Apache Superset cost vs Looker?
Apache Superset is completely free. Looker is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.