CrateDB vs Materialize: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between CrateDB and Materialize 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:
CrateDB
Real-time analytics database for instant insights from any data, at any scale, with SQL.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.7/10 vs 7.1/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need business intelligence features specifically
- • Real-time analytics database for instant querying of diverse data at scale using SQL.
- • Supports complex aggregations, hybrid search (including vector similarity), and AI model integration.
Materialize
The Live Data Layer for Apps and AI Agents, enabling real-time insights with SQL.
Best for you if:
- • You need big data analytics features specifically
- • Provides a live data layer for real-time applications and AI agents.
- • Processes data streams and allows querying fresh data using standard SQL.
| At a Glance |  CrateDB |  Materialize |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Business Intelligence | Big Data Analytics |
Rating | 77/100 | 71/100 |
| Feature | CrateDB | Materialize |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 77 | 71 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Business IntelligenceETL & Data Pipelines | Big Data AnalyticsBusiness Intelligence |
How CrateDB and Materialize Compare
CrateDB
Real-time analytics database for instant insights from any data, at any scale, with SQL.
Free tier available · 77/100 score
Materialize
The Live Data Layer for Apps and AI Agents, enabling real-time insights with SQL.
Paid · 71/100 score
CrateDB is a business intelligence tool. Materialize is in big data analytics.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
CrateDB has a free tier. Materialize is paid only.
Go with: CrateDB
Want the highest-rated option?
CrateDB: 77/100. Materialize: 71/100.
Go with: CrateDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: CrateDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
CrateDB is freemium. Materialize is paid. CrateDB lets you start free.
What's your use case?
CrateDB is a business intelligence tool. Materialize is in big data analytics. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
CrateDB scores higher: 77/100 vs 71/100.
Key Takeaways
CrateDB
- Higher score: 77/100 vs 71
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Materialize
- Better fit for big data analytics
The Bottom Line
CrateDB (77/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CrateDB or Materialize better?
CrateDB scores 77/100 in our evaluation. CrateDB is freemium and Materialize is paid.
What are CrateDB and Materialize used for?
CrateDB: Real-time analytics database for instant insights from any data, at any scale, with SQL.. Materialize: The Live Data Layer for Apps and AI Agents, enabling real-time insights with SQL..
What does CrateDB cost vs Materialize?
CrateDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Materialize is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.