Luminal vs Modal: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Luminal and Modal 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 22, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Luminal
Accelerate AI model inference with optimized compilation and serverless deployment.
Best for you if:
- • Optimizes AI models for high-speed, high-throughput inference.
- • Compiles Hugging Face models into zero-overhead GPU code.
Modal
High-performance AI infrastructure for developers to deploy, train, and scale ML workloads.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • Programmable AI infrastructure for inference, training, and batch processing.
- • Offers sub-second cold starts, instant autoscaling, and elastic GPU capacity.
| At a Glance |  Modal | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Hosting & Deployment |
Rating | —/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Luminal | Modal |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentServerless | Hosting & DeploymentServerless |
How Luminal and Modal Compare
Luminal
Accelerate AI model inference with optimized compilation and serverless deployment.
Paid
Modal
High-performance AI infrastructure for developers to deploy, train, and scale ML workloads.
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Modal has a free tier. Luminal is paid only.
Go with: Modal
Want the highest-rated option?
Modal scores 85/100. Luminal is unrated.
Go with: Modal
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Modal
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Luminal is paid. Modal is freemium. Modal lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are hosting & deployment tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Modal
- Higher score: 85/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Luminal
The Bottom Line
Modal (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Luminal or Modal better?
Modal scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Luminal is paid and Modal is freemium.
What are Luminal and Modal used for?
Luminal: Accelerate AI model inference with optimized compilation and serverless deployment.. Modal: High-performance AI infrastructure for developers to deploy, train, and scale ML workloads..
What does Luminal cost vs Modal?
Luminal is a paid tool. Modal is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.