JanusGraph vs Dgraph: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between JanusGraph 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:
JanusGraph
Distributed graph database for scale
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • JanusGraph is an open-source distributed graph database for massive datasets
- • It supports billions of vertices and edges with pluggable storage backends
Dgraph
Distributed graph database with GraphQL
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 7.6/10)
- • 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 |  JanusGraph |  Dgraph |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Database Builders | Database Builders |
Rating | 76/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | JanusGraph | 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 | Database BuildersManaged Databases | Database BuildersManaged Databases |
How JanusGraph and Dgraph Compare
JanusGraph
Distributed graph database for scale
Free · 76/100 score
Dgraph
Distributed graph database with GraphQL
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
JanusGraph is free. Dgraph is freemium.
Go with: JanusGraph
Want the highest-rated option?
JanusGraph: 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?
JanusGraph is free. Dgraph is freemium. Go with JanusGraph if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are database builders tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
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
JanusGraph
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Dgraph (82/100) is our pick. That said, JanusGraph is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is JanusGraph or Dgraph better?
Dgraph scores 82/100 in our evaluation. JanusGraph is free and Dgraph is freemium.
What are JanusGraph and Dgraph used for?
JanusGraph: Distributed graph database for scale. Dgraph: Distributed graph database with GraphQL.
What does JanusGraph cost vs Dgraph?
JanusGraph is completely free. Dgraph is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.