Express vs Fastify: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Express and Fastify 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:
Express
Fast, unopinionated, minimalist web framework for Node.js
Best for you if:
- • Minimalist web framework for Node.js
- • Provides robust features for web and mobile applications and APIs
Fastify
Fast and low overhead web framework for Node.js, focused on developer experience and performance.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.4/10 vs 7.2/10)
- • High-performance Node.js web framework.
- • Extensible with hooks, plugins, and decorators.
| At a Glance |  Express |  Fastify |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 72/100 | 74/100 |
| Feature | Express | Fastify |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 72 | 74 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsAPI Tools | IDE & Code EditorsAPI Tools |
How Express and Fastify Compare
Express
Fast, unopinionated, minimalist web framework for Node.js
Free · 72/100 score
Fastify
Fast and low overhead web framework for Node.js, focused on developer experience and performance.
Free · 74/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Express
Want the highest-rated option?
Express: 72/100. Fastify: 74/100.
Go with: Fastify
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Fastify
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are ide & code editors tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Fastify scores higher: 74/100 vs 72/100.
Key Takeaways
Fastify
- Higher score: 74/100 vs 72
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Express
The Bottom Line
Fastify (74/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Express or Fastify better?
Fastify scores 74/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Express and Fastify used for?
Express: Fast, unopinionated, minimalist web framework for Node.js. Fastify: Fast and low overhead web framework for Node.js, focused on developer experience and performance..
What does Express cost vs Fastify?
Express is completely free. Fastify is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.