Chirpstack vs K3s: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Chirpstack and K3s 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:
Chirpstack
Open-source LoRaWAN Network Server for managing gateways, devices, and data integrations.
Best for you if:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Open-source LoRaWAN Network Server.
- • Manages gateways, devices, and data integrations via a web interface.
K3s
Lightweight Kubernetes for edge and IoT
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need iot platforms features specifically
- • K3s is a lightweight Kubernetes distribution for edge, IoT, and resource-constrained environments
- • It provides full Kubernetes functionality in a single binary under 100MB
| At a Glance |  Chirpstack |  K3s |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | API Tools | IoT Platforms |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Chirpstack | K3s |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsHosting & Deployment | IoT PlatformsEdge Computing |
How Chirpstack and K3s Compare
Chirpstack
Open-source LoRaWAN Network Server for managing gateways, devices, and data integrations.
Free
K3s
Lightweight Kubernetes for edge and IoT
Free · 86/100 score
Chirpstack is a api tools tool. K3s is in iot platforms.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Chirpstack
Want the highest-rated option?
K3s scores 86/100. Chirpstack is unrated.
Go with: K3s
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: K3s
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Chirpstack is a api tools tool. K3s is in iot platforms. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
K3s
- Higher score: 86/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Chirpstack
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
K3s (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chirpstack or K3s better?
K3s scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Chirpstack and K3s used for?
Chirpstack: Open-source LoRaWAN Network Server for managing gateways, devices, and data integrations.. K3s: Lightweight Kubernetes for edge and IoT.
What does Chirpstack cost vs K3s?
Chirpstack is completely free. K3s is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.