JanusGraph vs Neo4j: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between JanusGraph and Neo4j 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
- • You need database builders features specifically
- • JanusGraph is an open-source distributed graph database for massive datasets
- • It supports billions of vertices and edges with pluggable storage backends
Neo4j
Native graph database platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 7.6/10)
- • You need data visualization features specifically
- • Neo4j is a native graph database for connected data applications
- • It stores and queries relationships efficiently for recommendation and fraud detection
| At a Glance |  JanusGraph |  Neo4j |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Database Builders | Data Visualization |
Rating | 76/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | JanusGraph | Neo4j |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 76 | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Database BuildersManaged Databases | Data VisualizationDatabase Builders |
How JanusGraph and Neo4j Compare
JanusGraph
Distributed graph database for scale
Free · 76/100 score
Neo4j
Native graph database platform
Free tier available · 90/100 score
JanusGraph is a database builders tool. Neo4j is in data visualization.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
JanusGraph is free. Neo4j is freemium.
Go with: JanusGraph
Want the highest-rated option?
JanusGraph: 76/100. Neo4j: 90/100.
Go with: Neo4j
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Neo4j
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
JanusGraph is free. Neo4j is freemium. Go with JanusGraph if free matters most.
What's your use case?
JanusGraph is a database builders tool. Neo4j is in data visualization. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neo4j scores higher: 90/100 vs 76/100.
Key Takeaways
Neo4j
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 76
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
JanusGraph
- Completely free
- Better fit for database builders
The Bottom Line
Neo4j (90/100) is our pick. That said, JanusGraph is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is JanusGraph or Neo4j better?
Neo4j scores 90/100 in our evaluation. JanusGraph is free and Neo4j is freemium.
What are JanusGraph and Neo4j used for?
JanusGraph: Distributed graph database for scale. Neo4j: Native graph database platform.
What does JanusGraph cost vs Neo4j?
JanusGraph is completely free. Neo4j is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.