DuckDB vs SingleStore: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between DuckDB and SingleStore 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 8.2/10)
- • 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
SingleStore
Distributed SQL database for real-time analytics
Best for you if:
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • SingleStore is a distributed SQL database for real-time analytics
- • It handles transactional and analytical workloads in one system
| At a Glance |  DuckDB |  SingleStore |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Database Builders | Managed Databases |
Rating | 88/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | DuckDB | SingleStore |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Database BuildersETL & Data Pipelines | Managed DatabasesETL & Data Pipelines |
How DuckDB and SingleStore Compare
DuckDB
In-process analytics database
Free · 88/100 score
SingleStore
Distributed SQL database for real-time analytics
Paid · 82/100 score
DuckDB is a database builders tool. SingleStore is in managed databases.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
DuckDB is free. SingleStore is paid.
Go with: DuckDB
Want the highest-rated option?
DuckDB: 88/100. SingleStore: 82/100.
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. SingleStore is paid. Go with DuckDB if free matters most.
What's your use case?
DuckDB is a database builders tool. SingleStore is in managed databases. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
DuckDB scores higher: 88/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
DuckDB
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 82
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
SingleStore
- Better fit for managed databases
The Bottom Line
DuckDB (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DuckDB or SingleStore better?
DuckDB scores 88/100 in our evaluation. DuckDB is free and SingleStore is paid.
What are DuckDB and SingleStore used for?
DuckDB: In-process analytics database. SingleStore: Distributed SQL database for real-time analytics.
What does DuckDB cost vs SingleStore?
DuckDB is completely free. SingleStore is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.