CockroachDB vs SurrealDB: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between CockroachDB 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:
CockroachDB
Distributed SQL database built for cloud
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • CockroachDB is a distributed SQL database that survives failures and scales horizontally
- • It provides PostgreSQL compatibility with automatic sharding and multi-region deployment
SurrealDB
The ultimate multi-model database for AI agents, simplifying your stack and accelerating development.
Best for you if:
- • 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 |  CockroachDB |  SurrealDB |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Managed Databases | Database Builders |
Rating | 88/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | CockroachDB | SurrealDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Managed DatabasesServerless Databases | Database BuildersManaged Databases |
How CockroachDB and SurrealDB Compare
CockroachDB
Distributed SQL database built for cloud
Free tier available · 88/100 score
SurrealDB
The ultimate multi-model database for AI agents, simplifying your stack and accelerating development.
Free tier available · 80/100 score
CockroachDB is a managed databases tool. SurrealDB is in database builders.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: CockroachDB
Want the highest-rated option?
CockroachDB: 88/100. SurrealDB: 80/100.
Go with: CockroachDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: CockroachDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
CockroachDB is a managed databases tool. SurrealDB is in database builders. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
CockroachDB scores higher: 88/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
CockroachDB
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
SurrealDB
- Better fit for database builders
The Bottom Line
CockroachDB (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CockroachDB or SurrealDB better?
CockroachDB scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are CockroachDB and SurrealDB used for?
CockroachDB: Distributed SQL database built for cloud. SurrealDB: The ultimate multi-model database for AI agents, simplifying your stack and accelerating development..
What does CockroachDB cost vs SurrealDB?
CockroachDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). SurrealDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.