Apollo Graphql vs Kong: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Apollo Graphql 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 February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Apollo Graphql
GraphQL platform
Best for you if:
- • Apollo GraphQL is a platform for building, managing, and scaling GraphQL APIs
- • It provides client libraries, a schema registry, and tools for federated graph architecture
Kong
API gateway and platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 7.6/10)
- • 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 |  Apollo Graphql |  Kong |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | 76/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | Apollo Graphql | Kong |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 76 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsMonitoring | API ToolsHosting & Deployment |
How Apollo Graphql and Kong Compare
Apollo Graphql
GraphQL platform
Free tier available · 76/100 score
Kong
API gateway and platform
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Apollo Graphql
Want the highest-rated option?
Apollo Graphql: 76/100. Kong: 84/100.
Go with: Kong
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Kong
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are api tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Kong scores higher: 84/100 vs 76/100.
Key Takeaways
Kong
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 76
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Apollo Graphql
The Bottom Line
Kong (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Apollo Graphql or Kong better?
Kong scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Apollo Graphql and Kong used for?
Apollo Graphql: GraphQL platform. Kong: API gateway and platform.
What does Apollo Graphql cost vs Kong?
Apollo Graphql is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Kong is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.