Hamilton vs Meltano: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Hamilton and Meltano 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 22, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Hamilton
A general-purpose framework to write dataflows using regular Python functions.
Best for you if:
- • You need big data analytics features specifically
- • Builds dataflows from regular Python functions into a Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG).
- • Offers a UI for visualizing, cataloging, and monitoring dataflows and lineage.
Meltano
Open-source data integration platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need workflow automation features specifically
- • Meltano is an open-source platform for running Singer ELT pipelines
- • It orchestrates data extraction and loading with version-controlled configs
| At a Glance |  Hamilton |  Meltano |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Big Data Analytics | Workflow Automation |
Rating | —/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | Hamilton | Meltano |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Big Data AnalyticsWorkflow Automation | Workflow AutomationETL & Data Pipelines |
How Hamilton and Meltano Compare
Hamilton
A general-purpose framework to write dataflows using regular Python functions.
Free
Meltano
Open-source data integration platform
Free · 84/100 score
Hamilton is a big data analytics tool. Meltano is in workflow automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Hamilton
Want the highest-rated option?
Meltano scores 84/100. Hamilton is unrated.
Go with: Meltano
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Meltano
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?
Hamilton is a big data analytics tool. Meltano is in workflow automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Meltano
- Higher score: 84/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Hamilton
- Better fit for big data analytics
The Bottom Line
Meltano (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hamilton or Meltano better?
Meltano scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Hamilton and Meltano used for?
Hamilton: A general-purpose framework to write dataflows using regular Python functions.. Meltano: Open-source data integration platform.
What does Hamilton cost vs Meltano?
Hamilton is completely free. Meltano is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.