EMQX vs Particle: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between EMQX and Particle 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:
EMQX
The unified MQTT platform for real-time AI and IoT data streaming.
Best for you if:
- • Unifies MQTT pub/sub and durable message queuing in a single platform.
- • Provides high scalability and reliability for IoT and AI data streaming.
Particle
An integrated IoT Platform-as-a-Service for intelligent devices, from hardware to cloud.
Best for you if:
- • Integrated IoT platform for building, connecting, and managing intelligent devices.
- • Provides edge infrastructure, reliable multi-radio connectivity, and cloud services.
| At a Glance |  EMQX |  Particle |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | IoT Platforms | IoT Platforms |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | EMQX | Particle |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IoT Platforms | IoT PlatformsEdge Computing |
How EMQX and Particle Compare
EMQX
The unified MQTT platform for real-time AI and IoT data streaming.
Free tier available
Particle
An integrated IoT Platform-as-a-Service for intelligent devices, from hardware to cloud.
Free tier available
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: EMQX
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: EMQX
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: EMQX
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?
Both are iot platforms tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
EMQX
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Particle
The Bottom Line
EMQX is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is EMQX or Particle better?
EMQX scores high/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are EMQX and Particle used for?
EMQX: The unified MQTT platform for real-time AI and IoT data streaming.. Particle: An integrated IoT Platform-as-a-Service for intelligent devices, from hardware to cloud..
What does EMQX cost vs Particle?
EMQX is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Particle is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.