Expel vs Datadog: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Expel and Datadog 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:
Expel
Human-led, AI-supported Managed Detection & Response (MDR) security services that integrate with your existing tools.
Best for you if:
- • You need security monitoring features specifically
- • Provides 24x7 human-led, AI-supported Managed Detection & Response (MDR) services.
- • Integrates with over 160 existing security tools, avoiding rip-and-replace of current tech.
Datadog
Cloud monitoring platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need monitoring features specifically
- • Cloud monitoring and security platform
- • Unified observability across infrastructure
| At a Glance |  Expel |  Datadog |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Security Monitoring | Monitoring |
Rating | —/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | Expel | Datadog |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Security Monitoring | MonitoringLog Management |
How Expel and Datadog Compare
Expel
Human-led, AI-supported Managed Detection & Response (MDR) security services that integrate with your existing tools.
Paid
Datadog
Cloud monitoring platform
Free tier available · 90/100 score
Expel is a security monitoring tool. Datadog is in monitoring.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Datadog has a free tier. Expel is paid only.
Go with: Datadog
Want the highest-rated option?
Datadog scores 90/100. Expel is unrated.
Go with: Datadog
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Datadog
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Expel is paid. Datadog is freemium. Datadog lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Expel is a security monitoring tool. Datadog is in monitoring. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Datadog
- Higher score: 90/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Expel
- Better fit for security monitoring
The Bottom Line
Datadog (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Expel or Datadog better?
Datadog scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Expel is paid and Datadog is freemium.
What are Expel and Datadog used for?
Expel: Human-led, AI-supported Managed Detection & Response (MDR) security services that integrate with your existing tools.. Datadog: Cloud monitoring platform.
What does Expel cost vs Datadog?
Expel is a paid tool. Datadog is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.