Azure Cosmos DB vs CrateDB: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Azure Cosmos DB and CrateDB 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:
Azure Cosmos DB
Globally distributed multi-model database on Azure
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 7.7/10)
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • Azure Cosmos DB is a globally distributed NoSQL database with multiple consistency models
- • It provides single-digit millisecond latency and automatic scaling worldwide
CrateDB
Real-time analytics database for instant insights from any data, at any scale, with SQL.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need business intelligence features specifically
- • Real-time analytics database for instant querying of diverse data at scale using SQL.
- • Supports complex aggregations, hybrid search (including vector similarity), and AI model integration.
| At a Glance |  Azure Cosmos DB |  CrateDB |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Managed Databases | Business Intelligence |
Rating | 86/100 | 77/100 |
| Feature | Azure Cosmos DB | CrateDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 77 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Managed DatabasesETL & Data Pipelines | Business IntelligenceETL & Data Pipelines |
How Azure Cosmos DB and CrateDB Compare
Azure Cosmos DB
Globally distributed multi-model database on Azure
Paid · 86/100 score
CrateDB
Real-time analytics database for instant insights from any data, at any scale, with SQL.
Free tier available · 77/100 score
Azure Cosmos DB is a managed databases tool. CrateDB is in business intelligence.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
CrateDB has a free tier. Azure Cosmos DB is paid only.
Go with: CrateDB
Want the highest-rated option?
Azure Cosmos DB: 86/100. CrateDB: 77/100.
Go with: Azure Cosmos DB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Azure Cosmos DB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Azure Cosmos DB is paid. CrateDB is freemium. CrateDB lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Azure Cosmos DB is a managed databases tool. CrateDB is in business intelligence. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Azure Cosmos DB scores higher: 86/100 vs 77/100.
Key Takeaways
Azure Cosmos DB
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 77
- Our pick for this comparison
CrateDB
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for business intelligence
The Bottom Line
Azure Cosmos DB (86/100) is our pick. CrateDB has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Azure Cosmos DB or CrateDB better?
Azure Cosmos DB scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Azure Cosmos DB is paid and CrateDB is freemium.
What are Azure Cosmos DB and CrateDB used for?
Azure Cosmos DB: Globally distributed multi-model database on Azure. CrateDB: Real-time analytics database for instant insights from any data, at any scale, with SQL..
What does Azure Cosmos DB cost vs CrateDB?
Azure Cosmos DB is a paid tool. CrateDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.