Jaeger vs Raygun: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Jaeger and Raygun 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Jaeger
Open-source distributed tracing system
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
Raygun
Error and performance monitoring
Best for you if:
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | DevOps | DevOps |
Rating | 85/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Jaeger | Raygun |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | DevOps | DevOps |
Understanding the Differences
Both Jaeger and Raygun solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Jaeger positions itself as "open-source distributed tracing system" while Raygunfocuses on "error and performance monitoring". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Jaeger
Jaeger makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution. With a score of 85/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Raygun
Raygun is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Jaeger lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Jaeger
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Jaeger handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Jaeger
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Raygun takes enterprise seriously.
We'd pick: Raygun
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? Jaeger is completely free.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Jaeger higher (85/100). But the community has upvoted Raygun more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Jaeger Does Better
- Higher overall score (85/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Raygun If
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Jaeger (85/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Jaeger scores higher in our analysis, but Raygun might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jaeger or Raygun better?
Based on our analysis, Jaeger scores higher with 85/100. Jaeger isfree while Raygun is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Jaeger to Raygun easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Jaeger and Raygun offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Jaeger is completely free.Raygun is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.