DataHub vs Steampipe: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between DataHub 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:
DataHub
Modern data catalog and metadata platform for AI and data context management.
Best for you if:
- • You need etl & data pipelines features specifically
- • Open-source metadata platform for AI and data context management.
- • Enables data discovery, lineage, and governance across diverse data assets.
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 |  DataHub |  Steampipe |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | ETL & Data Pipelines | Big Data Analytics |
Rating | —/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | DataHub | 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 | ETL & Data PipelinesData Warehouses | Big Data AnalyticsBusiness Intelligence |
How DataHub and Steampipe Compare
DataHub
Modern data catalog and metadata platform for AI and data context management.
Free tier available
Steampipe
Dynamically query APIs, code, and cloud resources with SQL for Zero-ETL insights.
Free · 88/100 score
DataHub is a etl & data pipelines tool. Steampipe is in big data analytics.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Steampipe is free. DataHub is freemium.
Go with: Steampipe
Want the highest-rated option?
Steampipe scores 88/100. DataHub 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?
DataHub is freemium. Steampipe is free. Go with Steampipe if free matters most.
What's your use case?
DataHub is a etl & data pipelines 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
DataHub
- Better fit for etl & data pipelines
The Bottom Line
Steampipe (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DataHub or Steampipe better?
Steampipe scores 88/100 in our evaluation. DataHub is freemium and Steampipe is free.
What are DataHub and Steampipe used for?
DataHub: Modern data catalog and metadata platform for AI and data context management.. Steampipe: Dynamically query APIs, code, and cloud resources with SQL for Zero-ETL insights..
What does DataHub cost vs Steampipe?
DataHub is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Steampipe is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.