KNIME vs Looker: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between KNIME and Looker 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:
KNIME
Open-source data analytics and machine learning platform for visual workflow creation.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Build visual workflows for data processing, analysis, and machine learning.
- • Connects to over 300 data sources and handles diverse data types.
Looker
Business intelligence platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • Embedded analytics for your product
- • White-label dashboards in your app
| At a Glance |  KNIME |  Looker |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Business Intelligence | Business Intelligence |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | KNIME | Looker |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Business IntelligenceData Visualization | Business IntelligenceData Visualization |
How KNIME and Looker Compare
KNIME
Open-source data analytics and machine learning platform for visual workflow creation.
Free tier available
Looker
Business intelligence platform
Paid · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
KNIME has a free tier. Looker is paid only.
Go with: KNIME
Want the highest-rated option?
Looker scores 86/100. KNIME is unrated.
Go with: Looker
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Looker
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
KNIME is freemium. Looker is paid. KNIME lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are business intelligence tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Looker
- Higher score: 86/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
KNIME
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Looker (86/100) is our pick. KNIME has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is KNIME or Looker better?
Looker scores 86/100 in our evaluation. KNIME is freemium and Looker is paid.
What are KNIME and Looker used for?
KNIME: Open-source data analytics and machine learning platform for visual workflow creation.. Looker: Business intelligence platform.
What does KNIME cost vs Looker?
KNIME is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Looker is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.