KeyDB vs Dragonfly: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between KeyDB and Dragonfly 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 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.
Dragonfly
An in-memory data store for massive workloads, offering Redis/Valkey/Memcached compatibility and superior performance.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • 25x faster than Redis with 80% cost reduction.
- • 100% API compatible with Redis, Valkey, and Memcached.
| At a Glance |  KeyDB |  Dragonfly |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Database Builders | API Tools |
Rating | 82/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | KeyDB | Dragonfly |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Database BuildersManaged Databases | API ToolsManaged Databases |
How KeyDB and Dragonfly Compare
KeyDB
The Faster Redis Alternative for high-throughput, low-latency data storage.
Free · 82/100 score
Dragonfly
An in-memory data store for massive workloads, offering Redis/Valkey/Memcached compatibility and superior performance.
Free tier available · 86/100 score
KeyDB is a database builders tool. Dragonfly is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
KeyDB is free. Dragonfly is freemium.
Go with: KeyDB
Want the highest-rated option?
KeyDB: 82/100. Dragonfly: 86/100.
Go with: Dragonfly
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Dragonfly
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
KeyDB is free. Dragonfly is freemium. Go with KeyDB if free matters most.
What's your use case?
KeyDB is a database builders tool. Dragonfly is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Dragonfly scores higher: 86/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Dragonfly
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 82
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
KeyDB
- Completely free
- Better fit for database builders
The Bottom Line
Dragonfly (86/100) is our pick. That said, KeyDB is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is KeyDB or Dragonfly better?
Dragonfly scores 86/100 in our evaluation. KeyDB is free and Dragonfly is freemium.
What are KeyDB and Dragonfly used for?
KeyDB: The Faster Redis Alternative for high-throughput, low-latency data storage.. Dragonfly: An in-memory data store for massive workloads, offering Redis/Valkey/Memcached compatibility and superior performance..
What does KeyDB cost vs Dragonfly?
KeyDB is completely free. Dragonfly is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.