Dragonfly vs Redis: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Dragonfly and Redis 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:
Dragonfly
An in-memory data store for massive workloads, offering Redis/Valkey/Memcached compatibility and superior performance.
Best for you if:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • 25x faster than Redis with 80% cost reduction.
- • 100% API compatible with Redis, Valkey, and Memcached.
Redis
In-memory data store
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.1/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • In-memory data store for caching and real-time features
- • Microsecond response times for common operations
| At a Glance |  Dragonfly |  Redis |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | Managed Databases |
Rating | 86/100 | 91/100 |
| Feature | Dragonfly | Redis |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 91 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsManaged Databases | Managed DatabasesData Warehouses |
How Dragonfly and Redis Compare
Dragonfly
An in-memory data store for massive workloads, offering Redis/Valkey/Memcached compatibility and superior performance.
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Redis
In-memory data store
Free tier available · 91/100 score
Dragonfly is a api tools tool. Redis is in managed databases.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Dragonfly
Want the highest-rated option?
Dragonfly: 86/100. Redis: 91/100.
Go with: Redis
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Redis
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Dragonfly is a api tools tool. Redis is in managed databases. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Redis scores higher: 91/100 vs 86/100.
Key Takeaways
Redis
- Higher score: 91/100 vs 86
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Dragonfly
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Redis (91/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dragonfly or Redis better?
Redis scores 91/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Dragonfly and Redis used for?
Dragonfly: An in-memory data store for massive workloads, offering Redis/Valkey/Memcached compatibility and superior performance.. Redis: In-memory data store.
What does Dragonfly cost vs Redis?
Dragonfly is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Redis is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.