Influxdb vs TimescaleDB: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Influxdb and TimescaleDB 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:
Influxdb
Time series database
Best for you if:
- • You need real-time analytics features specifically
- • InfluxDB is a time series database optimized for metrics, events, and real-time analytics
- • It handles high write and query loads for monitoring, IoT, and observability workloads
TimescaleDB
Time series database on PostgreSQL
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • You need time tracking features specifically
- • TimescaleDB is a time-series database built on PostgreSQL
- • It handles time-series data with full SQL and PostgreSQL compatibility
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Real-Time Analytics | Time Tracking |
Rating | 78/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Influxdb | TimescaleDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 78 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Real-Time AnalyticsData Visualization | Time TrackingManaged Databases |
How Influxdb and TimescaleDB Compare
Influxdb
Time series database
Free tier available · 78/100 score
TimescaleDB
Time series database on PostgreSQL
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Influxdb is a real-time analytics tool. TimescaleDB is in time tracking.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Influxdb
Want the highest-rated option?
Influxdb: 78/100. TimescaleDB: 86/100.
Go with: TimescaleDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: TimescaleDB
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?
Influxdb is a real-time analytics tool. TimescaleDB is in time tracking. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
TimescaleDB scores higher: 86/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
TimescaleDB
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 78
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Influxdb
- Better fit for real-time analytics
The Bottom Line
TimescaleDB (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Influxdb or TimescaleDB better?
TimescaleDB scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Influxdb and TimescaleDB used for?
Influxdb: Time series database. TimescaleDB: Time series database on PostgreSQL.
What does Influxdb cost vs TimescaleDB?
Influxdb is freemium (free tier + paid plans). TimescaleDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.