KeyDB vs Couchbase: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between KeyDB and Couchbase 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:
KeyDB
The Faster Redis Alternative for high-throughput, low-latency data storage.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need database builders features specifically
- • Multithreaded Redis alternative for high performance.
- • Achieves over 1 million ops/sec with low latency.
Couchbase
Distributed NoSQL cloud database
Best for you if:
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • Couchbase is a distributed NoSQL database combining document, key-value, and SQL capabilities
- • It offers sub-millisecond latency, built-in caching, and mobile sync for demanding applications
| At a Glance |  KeyDB |  Couchbase |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Database Builders | Managed Databases |
Rating | 82/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | KeyDB | Couchbase |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Database BuildersManaged Databases | Managed DatabasesMobile Backend |
How KeyDB and Couchbase Compare
KeyDB
The Faster Redis Alternative for high-throughput, low-latency data storage.
Free · 82/100 score
Couchbase
Distributed NoSQL cloud database
Paid · 80/100 score
KeyDB is a database builders tool. Couchbase is in managed databases.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
KeyDB is free. Couchbase is paid.
Go with: KeyDB
Want the highest-rated option?
KeyDB: 82/100. Couchbase: 80/100.
Go with: KeyDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: KeyDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
KeyDB is free. Couchbase is paid. Go with KeyDB if free matters most.
What's your use case?
KeyDB is a database builders tool. Couchbase is in managed databases. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
KeyDB scores higher: 82/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
KeyDB
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 80
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Couchbase
- Better fit for managed databases
The Bottom Line
KeyDB (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is KeyDB or Couchbase better?
KeyDB scores 82/100 in our evaluation. KeyDB is free and Couchbase is paid.
What are KeyDB and Couchbase used for?
KeyDB: The Faster Redis Alternative for high-throughput, low-latency data storage.. Couchbase: Distributed NoSQL cloud database.
What does KeyDB cost vs Couchbase?
KeyDB is completely free. Couchbase is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.