Azure Cosmos DB vs SurrealDB: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Azure Cosmos DB and SurrealDB 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 8.0/10)
- • 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
SurrealDB
The ultimate multi-model database for AI agents, simplifying your stack and accelerating development.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need database builders features specifically
- • Unified multi-model database (document, graph, time-series, relational, geospatial, key-value) for AI applications.
- • Built for AI with integrated vector, full-text, and hybrid search, supporting RAG and Knowledge Graphs.
| At a Glance |  Azure Cosmos DB |  SurrealDB |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Managed Databases | Database Builders |
Rating | 86/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Azure Cosmos DB | SurrealDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Managed DatabasesETL & Data Pipelines | Database BuildersManaged Databases |
How Azure Cosmos DB and SurrealDB Compare
Azure Cosmos DB
Globally distributed multi-model database on Azure
Paid · 86/100 score
SurrealDB
The ultimate multi-model database for AI agents, simplifying your stack and accelerating development.
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Azure Cosmos DB is a managed databases tool. SurrealDB is in database builders.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
SurrealDB has a free tier. Azure Cosmos DB is paid only.
Go with: SurrealDB
Want the highest-rated option?
Azure Cosmos DB: 86/100. SurrealDB: 80/100.
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. SurrealDB is freemium. SurrealDB lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Azure Cosmos DB is a managed databases tool. SurrealDB is in database builders. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Azure Cosmos DB scores higher: 86/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Azure Cosmos DB
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 80
- Our pick for this comparison
SurrealDB
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for database builders
The Bottom Line
Azure Cosmos DB (86/100) is our pick. SurrealDB has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Azure Cosmos DB or SurrealDB better?
Azure Cosmos DB scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Azure Cosmos DB is paid and SurrealDB is freemium.
What are Azure Cosmos DB and SurrealDB used for?
Azure Cosmos DB: Globally distributed multi-model database on Azure. SurrealDB: The ultimate multi-model database for AI agents, simplifying your stack and accelerating development..
What does Azure Cosmos DB cost vs SurrealDB?
Azure Cosmos DB is a paid tool. SurrealDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.