Forward Networks vs Datadog: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Forward Networks 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:
Forward Networks
Forward Networks
Best for you if:
- • You need forward networks
- • You want to start free and upgrade later
Datadog
Cloud monitoring platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • Cloud monitoring and security platform
- • Unified observability across infrastructure
| At a Glance |  Forward Networks |  Datadog |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Monitoring | Monitoring |
Rating | —/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | Forward Networks | Datadog |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | MonitoringSecurity Monitoring | MonitoringLog Management |
How Forward Networks and Datadog Compare
Forward Networks
Forward Networks
Free tier available
Datadog
Cloud monitoring platform
Free tier available · 90/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Forward Networks
Want the highest-rated option?
Datadog scores 90/100. Forward Networks 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?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are monitoring tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
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
Forward Networks
The Bottom Line
Datadog (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Forward Networks or Datadog better?
Datadog scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Forward Networks and Datadog used for?
Forward Networks: Forward Networks. Datadog: Cloud monitoring platform.
What does Forward Networks cost vs Datadog?
Forward Networks is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Datadog is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.