EMQ vs Apache Kafka: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between EMQ and Apache Kafka 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:
EMQ
The unified MQTT platform for AI and IoT data streaming, connecting devices to applications and AI services.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need etl & data pipelines features specifically
- • Unifies real-time MQTT pub/sub with durable message queuing for IoT and AI data streaming.
- • Achieves massive scalability and reliability, supporting millions of concurrent connections with low latency and zero data loss.
Apache Kafka
Distributed event streaming for real-time data pipelines
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.2/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need log management features specifically
- • Apache Kafka is a distributed event streaming platform used by 80% of Fortune 100 companies
- • It handles trillions of events daily for real-time data pipelines and streaming applications
| At a Glance |  EMQ |  Apache Kafka |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | ETL & Data Pipelines | Log Management |
Rating | —/100 | 92/100 |
| Feature | EMQ | Apache Kafka |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 92 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | ETL & Data PipelinesIoT Platforms | Log ManagementETL & Data Pipelines |
How EMQ and Apache Kafka Compare
EMQ
The unified MQTT platform for AI and IoT data streaming, connecting devices to applications and AI services.
Free tier available
Apache Kafka
Distributed event streaming for real-time data pipelines
Paid · 92/100 score
EMQ is a etl & data pipelines tool. Apache Kafka is in log management.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
EMQ has a free tier. Apache Kafka is paid only.
Go with: EMQ
Want the highest-rated option?
Apache Kafka scores 92/100. EMQ is unrated.
Go with: Apache Kafka
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Apache Kafka
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
EMQ is freemium. Apache Kafka is paid. EMQ lets you start free.
What's your use case?
EMQ is a etl & data pipelines tool. Apache Kafka is in log management. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Apache Kafka
- Higher score: 92/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
EMQ
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for etl & data pipelines
The Bottom Line
Apache Kafka (92/100) is our pick. EMQ has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is EMQ or Apache Kafka better?
Apache Kafka scores 92/100 in our evaluation. EMQ is freemium and Apache Kafka is paid.
What are EMQ and Apache Kafka used for?
EMQ: The unified MQTT platform for AI and IoT data streaming, connecting devices to applications and AI services.. Apache Kafka: Distributed event streaming for real-time data pipelines.
What does EMQ cost vs Apache Kafka?
EMQ is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Apache Kafka is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.