Hamilton vs Prefect: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Hamilton and Prefect 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 something completely free
- • 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.
Prefect
Modern workflow orchestration platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need automation features specifically
- • Prefect is a modern data workflow orchestration platform
- • It schedules and monitors Python data pipelines with observability
| At a Glance |  Hamilton | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Big Data Analytics | Automation |
Rating | —/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | Hamilton | Prefect |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Big Data AnalyticsWorkflow Automation | AutomationWorkflow Automation |
How Hamilton and Prefect Compare
Hamilton
A general-purpose framework to write dataflows using regular Python functions.
Free
Prefect
Modern workflow orchestration platform
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Hamilton is a big data analytics tool. Prefect is in automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Hamilton is free. Prefect is freemium.
Go with: Hamilton
Want the highest-rated option?
Prefect scores 84/100. Hamilton is unrated.
Go with: Prefect
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Prefect
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Hamilton is free. Prefect is freemium. Go with Hamilton if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Hamilton is a big data analytics tool. Prefect is in automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Prefect
- Higher score: 84/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Hamilton
- Completely free
- Better fit for big data analytics
The Bottom Line
Prefect (84/100) is our pick. That said, Hamilton is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hamilton or Prefect better?
Prefect scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Hamilton is free and Prefect is freemium.
What are Hamilton and Prefect used for?
Hamilton: A general-purpose framework to write dataflows using regular Python functions.. Prefect: Modern workflow orchestration platform.
What does Hamilton cost vs Prefect?
Hamilton is completely free. Prefect is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.