Couchbase vs SurrealDB: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Couchbase 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:
Couchbase
Distributed NoSQL cloud database
Best for you if:
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • Couchbase is a distributed NoSQL database combining document, key-value, and SQL capabilities
- • It offers sub-millisecond latency, built-in caching, and mobile sync for demanding applications
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 |  Couchbase |  SurrealDB |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Managed Databases | Database Builders |
Rating | 80/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Couchbase | SurrealDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 80 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Managed DatabasesMobile Backend | Database BuildersManaged Databases |
How Couchbase and SurrealDB Compare
Couchbase
Distributed NoSQL cloud database
Paid · 80/100 score
SurrealDB
The ultimate multi-model database for AI agents, simplifying your stack and accelerating development.
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Couchbase is a managed databases tool. SurrealDB is in database builders.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
SurrealDB has a free tier. Couchbase is paid only.
Go with: SurrealDB
Want the highest-rated option?
Couchbase: 80/100. SurrealDB: 80/100.
Go with: Couchbase
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Couchbase
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Couchbase is paid. SurrealDB is freemium. SurrealDB lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Couchbase is a managed databases tool. SurrealDB is in database builders. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Both score 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Couchbase
- Our pick for this comparison
SurrealDB
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for database builders
The Bottom Line
Couchbase (80/100) is our pick. SurrealDB has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Couchbase or SurrealDB better?
Couchbase scores 80/100 in our evaluation. Couchbase is paid and SurrealDB is freemium.
What are Couchbase and SurrealDB used for?
Couchbase: Distributed NoSQL cloud database. SurrealDB: The ultimate multi-model database for AI agents, simplifying your stack and accelerating development..
What does Couchbase cost vs SurrealDB?
Couchbase is a paid tool. SurrealDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.