AWS RDS vs Yugabyte: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between AWS RDS and Yugabyte 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:
AWS RDS
Managed relational database service
Best for you if:
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • Amazon RDS is a managed relational database service that automates administrative tasks like provisioning, backups, and patching.
- • It supports multiple database engines including PostgreSQL, MySQL, MariaDB, SQL Server, Oracle, and Db2, with deployment options like Multi-AZ for high availability and RDS Custom for OS/DB environment customization.
Yugabyte
AI-ready, distributed, PostgreSQL-compatible database for modern cloud-native applications.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.7/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need database builders features specifically
- • Distributed PostgreSQL for cloud-native applications with built-in resilience and scalability.
- • Supports AI/GenAI applications with advanced vector indexing and integrations.
| At a Glance |  AWS RDS |  Yugabyte |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Managed Databases | Database Builders |
Rating | —/100 | 87/100 |
| Feature | AWS RDS | Yugabyte |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Usage-based | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 87 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 203 | 0 |
| Categories | Managed Databases | Database BuildersManaged Databases |
How AWS RDS and Yugabyte Compare
AWS RDS
Managed relational database service
Paid
Yugabyte
AI-ready, distributed, PostgreSQL-compatible database for modern cloud-native applications.
Free tier available · 87/100 score
AWS RDS is a managed databases tool. Yugabyte is in database builders.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are usage-based. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Yugabyte
Want the highest-rated option?
Yugabyte scores 87/100. AWS RDS is unrated.
Go with: Yugabyte
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Yugabyte
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
AWS RDS is usage-based. Yugabyte is freemium. Yugabyte lets you start free.
What's your use case?
AWS RDS is a managed databases tool. Yugabyte is in database builders. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Yugabyte
- Higher score: 87/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
AWS RDS
- More community upvotes (203)
- Better fit for managed databases
The Bottom Line
Yugabyte (87/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AWS RDS or Yugabyte better?
Yugabyte scores 87/100 in our evaluation. AWS RDS is usage-based and Yugabyte is freemium.
What are AWS RDS and Yugabyte used for?
AWS RDS: Managed relational database service. Yugabyte: AI-ready, distributed, PostgreSQL-compatible database for modern cloud-native applications..
What does AWS RDS cost vs Yugabyte?
AWS RDS is a paid tool. Yugabyte is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.