DataChannel vs Steampipe: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between DataChannel and Steampipe 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:
DataChannel
Reliable ELT, Reverse ETL, and Conversational BI on a single, scalable platform.
Best for you if:
- • You need business intelligence features specifically
- • Unified platform for ELT, Reverse ETL, and Conversational BI.
- • Connects to 100+ data sources and 20+ destinations with granular control.
Steampipe
Dynamically query APIs, code, and cloud resources with SQL for Zero-ETL insights.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need big data analytics features specifically
- • Queries cloud APIs and other data sources using SQL.
- • Provides a Zero-ETL approach for real-time data access.
| At a Glance |  DataChannel |  Steampipe |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Business Intelligence | Big Data Analytics |
Rating | —/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | DataChannel | Steampipe |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 88 |
| 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 DataChannel and Steampipe Compare
DataChannel
Reliable ELT, Reverse ETL, and Conversational BI on a single, scalable platform.
Free tier available
Steampipe
Dynamically query APIs, code, and cloud resources with SQL for Zero-ETL insights.
Free · 88/100 score
DataChannel is a business intelligence tool. Steampipe is in big data analytics.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Steampipe is free. DataChannel is freemium.
Go with: Steampipe
Want the highest-rated option?
Steampipe scores 88/100. DataChannel is unrated.
Go with: Steampipe
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Steampipe
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
DataChannel is freemium. Steampipe is free. Go with Steampipe if free matters most.
What's your use case?
DataChannel is a business intelligence tool. Steampipe is in big data analytics. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Steampipe
- Higher score: 88/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
DataChannel
- Better fit for business intelligence
The Bottom Line
Steampipe (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DataChannel or Steampipe better?
Steampipe scores 88/100 in our evaluation. DataChannel is freemium and Steampipe is free.
What are DataChannel and Steampipe used for?
DataChannel: Reliable ELT, Reverse ETL, and Conversational BI on a single, scalable platform.. Steampipe: Dynamically query APIs, code, and cloud resources with SQL for Zero-ETL insights..
What does DataChannel cost vs Steampipe?
DataChannel is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Steampipe is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.