Dagster vs ZenML: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Dagster and ZenML 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 0.0/10)
- • Modern data pipeline tool
- • Declarative YAML configurations
ZenML
The unified AI platform to standardize and accelerate your ML and GenAI workflows from pipelines to agents.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Unifies ML and GenAI workflows into a single, orchestratable DAG.
- • Automates versioning, caching, and containerization for reproducibility and efficiency.
| At a Glance |  Dagster |  ZenML |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Workflow Automation | Workflow Automation |
Rating | 85/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Dagster | ZenML |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Workflow AutomationCI/CD | Workflow AutomationETL & Data Pipelines |
How Dagster and ZenML Compare
Dagster
Data orchestration platform for ML pipelines
Paid · 85/100 score
ZenML
The unified AI platform to standardize and accelerate your ML and GenAI workflows from pipelines to agents.
Free tier available
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
ZenML has a free tier. Dagster is paid only.
Go with: ZenML
Want the highest-rated option?
Dagster scores 85/100. ZenML is unrated.
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. ZenML is freemium. ZenML lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are workflow automation tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Dagster
- Higher score: 85/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
ZenML
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Dagster (85/100) is our pick. ZenML has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dagster or ZenML better?
Dagster scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Dagster is paid and ZenML is freemium.
What are Dagster and ZenML used for?
Dagster: Data orchestration platform for ML pipelines. ZenML: The unified AI platform to standardize and accelerate your ML and GenAI workflows from pipelines to agents..
What does Dagster cost vs ZenML?
Dagster is a paid tool. ZenML is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.