Bright Data vs Azure Synapse: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Bright Data and Azure Synapse 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Bright Data
Web data platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need etl & data pipelines features specifically
- • Enterprise proxy and web scraping platform with 150M+ residential IPs in 195 countries
- • Pay-as-you-go from $0.066/GB datacenter to $5.04/GB residential with Web Scraper API
Azure Synapse
Analytics service combining data warehousing and big data
Best for you if:
- • You need data warehouses features specifically
- • Azure Synapse Analytics combines data warehousing and big data analytics in one service
- • It queries data lakes and warehouses with SQL or Spark at massive scale
| At a Glance |  Bright Data | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | ETL & Data Pipelines | Data Warehouses |
Rating | 86/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | Bright Data | Azure Synapse |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | ETL & Data PipelinesData Warehouses | Data WarehousesETL & Data Pipelines |
Understanding the Differences
Both Bright Data and Azure Synapse solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Bright Data positions itself as "web data platform" while Azure Synapsefocuses on "analytics service combining data warehousing and big data". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Bright Data
Bright Data makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution. With a score of 86/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Azure Synapse
Azure Synapse is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Neither is free, but both have their value. Test them both and see which clicks.
We'd pick: Azure Synapse
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Bright Data handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Bright Data
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Bright Data is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: Bright Data
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Both are paid tools. If money isn't the issue, go with Bright Data—it scored higher.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Bright Data higher (86/100). But the community has upvoted Azure Synapse more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Bright Data Does Better
- Higher overall score (86/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Azure Synapse If
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Bright Data (86/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Bright Data scores higher in our analysis, but Azure Synapse might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bright Data or Azure Synapse better?
Based on our analysis, Bright Data scores higher with 86/100. Bright Data ispaid while Azure Synapse is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Bright Data to Azure Synapse easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Bright Data and Azure Synapse offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Bright Data is paid with potential trial.Azure Synapse is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.