Kong vs Apidog: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Kong and Apidog 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:
Kong
API gateway and platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • Kong is an API gateway and platform for managing, securing, and monitoring APIs
- • It provides rate limiting, authentication, and traffic control for microservices
Apidog
API design, testing, and documentation in one platform
Best for you if:
- • Apidog is an all-in-one API development platform combining design, debugging, and testing
- • It supports API documentation, mock servers, and automated testing in one tool
| At a Glance |  Kong |  Apidog |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | 84/100 | 78/100 |
| Feature | Kong | Apidog |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 78 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsHosting & Deployment | API ToolsDocumentation |
How Kong and Apidog Compare
Kong
API gateway and platform
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Apidog
API design, testing, and documentation in one platform
Free tier available · 78/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Kong
Want the highest-rated option?
Kong: 84/100. Apidog: 78/100.
Go with: Kong
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Kong
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are api tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Kong scores higher: 84/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
Kong
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 78
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Apidog
The Bottom Line
Kong (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kong or Apidog better?
Kong scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Kong and Apidog used for?
Kong: API gateway and platform. Apidog: API design, testing, and documentation in one platform.
What does Kong cost vs Apidog?
Kong is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Apidog is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.