Dagster vs Prefect: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Dagster and Prefect 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:
Dagster
Data orchestration platform for ML pipelines
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need workflow automation features specifically
- • Modern data pipeline tool
- • Declarative YAML configurations
Prefect
Modern workflow orchestration platform
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need automation features specifically
- • Prefect is a modern data workflow orchestration platform
- • It schedules and monitors Python data pipelines with observability
| At a Glance |  Dagster |  Prefect |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Workflow Automation | Automation |
Rating | 85/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | Dagster | Prefect |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Workflow AutomationCI/CD | AutomationWorkflow Automation |
How Dagster and Prefect Compare
Dagster
Data orchestration platform for ML pipelines
Paid · 85/100 score
Prefect
Modern workflow orchestration platform
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Dagster is a workflow automation tool. Prefect is in automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Prefect has a free tier. Dagster is paid only.
Go with: Prefect
Want the highest-rated option?
Dagster: 85/100. Prefect: 84/100.
Go with: Dagster
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Dagster
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Dagster is paid. Prefect is freemium. Prefect lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Dagster is a workflow automation tool. Prefect is in automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Dagster scores higher: 85/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Dagster
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 84
- Our pick for this comparison
Prefect
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for automation
The Bottom Line
Dagster (85/100) is our pick. Prefect has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dagster or Prefect better?
Dagster scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Dagster is paid and Prefect is freemium.
What are Dagster and Prefect used for?
Dagster: Data orchestration platform for ML pipelines. Prefect: Modern workflow orchestration platform.
What does Dagster cost vs Prefect?
Dagster is a paid tool. Prefect is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.