Chirpstack vs Node-RED: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Chirpstack and Node-RED 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.
Node-RED
Flow-based programming for IoT
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • Node-RED is a flow-based programming tool for wiring IoT and APIs
- • It creates automation flows with a visual browser-based editor
| At a Glance |  Chirpstack |  Node-RED |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | API Tools | Low-Code Backend |
Rating | —/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Chirpstack | Node-RED |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsHosting & Deployment | Low-Code BackendAutomation |
How Chirpstack and Node-RED Compare
Chirpstack
Open-source LoRaWAN Network Server for managing gateways, devices, and data integrations.
Free
Node-RED
Flow-based programming for IoT
Free · 80/100 score
Chirpstack is a api tools tool. Node-RED is in low-code backend.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Chirpstack
Want the highest-rated option?
Node-RED scores 80/100. Chirpstack is unrated.
Go with: Node-RED
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Node-RED
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. Node-RED is in low-code backend. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Node-RED
- Higher score: 80/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Chirpstack
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Node-RED (80/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chirpstack or Node-RED better?
Node-RED scores 80/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Chirpstack and Node-RED used for?
Chirpstack: Open-source LoRaWAN Network Server for managing gateways, devices, and data integrations.. Node-RED: Flow-based programming for IoT.
What does Chirpstack cost vs Node-RED?
Chirpstack is completely free. Node-RED is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.