GraphQL vs Dgraph: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between GraphQL and Dgraph 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:
GraphQL
A query language for your API, enabling precise data fetching and efficient development.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • A query language for APIs that allows clients to request exactly the data they need.
- • Enables efficient data fetching, reduces network requests, and supports evolving APIs without versioning.
Dgraph
Distributed graph database with GraphQL
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 7.6/10)
- • You need database builders features specifically
- • Dgraph is a distributed graph database with native GraphQL support
- • It handles graph queries at scale with ACID transactions and horizontal scalability
| At a Glance |  GraphQL |  Dgraph |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | Database Builders |
Rating | 76/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | GraphQL | Dgraph |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 76 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsGraphQL Tools | Database BuildersManaged Databases |
How GraphQL and Dgraph Compare
GraphQL
A query language for your API, enabling precise data fetching and efficient development.
Free · 76/100 score
Dgraph
Distributed graph database with GraphQL
Free tier available · 82/100 score
GraphQL is a api tools tool. Dgraph is in database builders.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
GraphQL is free. Dgraph is freemium.
Go with: GraphQL
Want the highest-rated option?
GraphQL: 76/100. Dgraph: 82/100.
Go with: Dgraph
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Dgraph
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
GraphQL is free. Dgraph is freemium. Go with GraphQL if free matters most.
What's your use case?
GraphQL is a api tools tool. Dgraph is in database builders. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Dgraph scores higher: 82/100 vs 76/100.
Key Takeaways
Dgraph
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 76
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
GraphQL
- Completely free
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Dgraph (82/100) is our pick. That said, GraphQL is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GraphQL or Dgraph better?
Dgraph scores 82/100 in our evaluation. GraphQL is free and Dgraph is freemium.
What are GraphQL and Dgraph used for?
GraphQL: A query language for your API, enabling precise data fetching and efficient development.. Dgraph: Distributed graph database with GraphQL.
What does GraphQL cost vs Dgraph?
GraphQL is completely free. Dgraph is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.