Logstash vs Apache Kafka: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Logstash and Apache Kafka 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:
Logstash
Data processing pipeline
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need big data analytics features specifically
- • Logstash is an open-source data processing pipeline for log ingestion
- • It collects, transforms, and sends logs to Elasticsearch and other destinations
Apache Kafka
Distributed event streaming for real-time data pipelines
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.2/10 vs 8.1/10)
- • You need log management features specifically
- • Apache Kafka is a distributed event streaming platform used by 80% of Fortune 100 companies
- • It handles trillions of events daily for real-time data pipelines and streaming applications
| At a Glance |  Logstash |  Apache Kafka |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Big Data Analytics | Log Management |
Rating | 81/100 | 92/100 |
| Feature | Logstash | Apache Kafka |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 81 | 92 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Big Data AnalyticsReal-Time Analytics | Log ManagementETL & Data Pipelines |
How Logstash and Apache Kafka Compare
Logstash
Data processing pipeline
Free · 81/100 score
Apache Kafka
Distributed event streaming for real-time data pipelines
Paid · 92/100 score
Logstash is a big data analytics tool. Apache Kafka is in log management.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Logstash is free. Apache Kafka is paid.
Go with: Logstash
Want the highest-rated option?
Logstash: 81/100. Apache Kafka: 92/100.
Go with: Apache Kafka
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Apache Kafka
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Logstash is free. Apache Kafka is paid. Go with Logstash if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Logstash is a big data analytics tool. Apache Kafka is in log management. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Apache Kafka scores higher: 92/100 vs 81/100.
Key Takeaways
Apache Kafka
- Higher score: 92/100 vs 81
- Our pick for this comparison
Logstash
- Completely free
- Better fit for big data analytics
The Bottom Line
Apache Kafka (92/100) is our pick. That said, Logstash is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Logstash or Apache Kafka better?
Apache Kafka scores 92/100 in our evaluation. Logstash is free and Apache Kafka is paid.
What are Logstash and Apache Kafka used for?
Logstash: Data processing pipeline. Apache Kafka: Distributed event streaming for real-time data pipelines.
What does Logstash cost vs Apache Kafka?
Logstash is completely free. Apache Kafka is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.