DuckDB vs Hopsworks: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between DuckDB and Hopsworks 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:
DuckDB
In-process analytics database
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need database builders features specifically
- • DuckDB is an embedded analytical database designed for fast OLAP queries in applications
- • It runs SQL queries directly on Parquet, CSV, and JSON files without a server
Hopsworks
The unified AI Lakehouse platform for real-time ML feature engineering, deployment, and production.
Best for you if:
- • You need etl & data pipelines features specifically
- • Provides a unified AI Lakehouse for real-time ML, integrating feature engineering, MLOps, and model serving.
- • Features a high-performance Feature Store with sub-millisecond latency powered by RonDB for consistent online/offline data.
| At a Glance |  DuckDB |  Hopsworks |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Database Builders | ETL & Data Pipelines |
Rating | 88/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | DuckDB | Hopsworks |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 88 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Database BuildersETL & Data Pipelines | ETL & Data PipelinesData Warehouses |
How DuckDB and Hopsworks Compare
DuckDB
In-process analytics database
Free · 88/100 score
Hopsworks
The unified AI Lakehouse platform for real-time ML feature engineering, deployment, and production.
Free tier available
DuckDB is a database builders tool. Hopsworks is in etl & data pipelines.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
DuckDB is free. Hopsworks is freemium.
Go with: DuckDB
Want the highest-rated option?
DuckDB scores 88/100. Hopsworks is unrated.
Go with: DuckDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: DuckDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
DuckDB is free. Hopsworks is freemium. Go with DuckDB if free matters most.
What's your use case?
DuckDB is a database builders tool. Hopsworks is in etl & data pipelines. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
DuckDB
- Higher score: 88/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Hopsworks
- Better fit for etl & data pipelines
The Bottom Line
DuckDB (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DuckDB or Hopsworks better?
DuckDB scores 88/100 in our evaluation. DuckDB is free and Hopsworks is freemium.
What are DuckDB and Hopsworks used for?
DuckDB: In-process analytics database. Hopsworks: The unified AI Lakehouse platform for real-time ML feature engineering, deployment, and production..
What does DuckDB cost vs Hopsworks?
DuckDB is completely free. Hopsworks is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.