MariaDB vs Dgraph: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between MariaDB and Dgraph 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:
MariaDB
Open-source relational database from MySQL creators
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • MariaDB is an open-source relational database forked from MySQL
- • It provides enhanced performance and features while maintaining MySQL compatibility
Dgraph
Distributed graph database with GraphQL
Best for you if:
- • You need database builders features specifically
- • Dgraph is a distributed graph database with native GraphQL support
- • It handles graph queries at scale with ACID transactions and horizontal scalability
| At a Glance |  MariaDB |  Dgraph |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Database Builders |
Rating | 86/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | MariaDB | Dgraph |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentDatabase Builders | Database BuildersManaged Databases |
How MariaDB and Dgraph Compare
MariaDB
Open-source relational database from MySQL creators
Free · 86/100 score
Dgraph
Distributed graph database with GraphQL
Free tier available · 82/100 score
MariaDB is a hosting & deployment tool. Dgraph is in database builders.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
MariaDB is free. Dgraph is freemium.
Go with: MariaDB
Want the highest-rated option?
MariaDB: 86/100. Dgraph: 82/100.
Go with: MariaDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: MariaDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
MariaDB is free. Dgraph is freemium. Go with MariaDB if free matters most.
What's your use case?
MariaDB is a hosting & deployment tool. Dgraph is in database builders. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
MariaDB scores higher: 86/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
MariaDB
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 82
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Dgraph
- Better fit for database builders
The Bottom Line
MariaDB (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MariaDB or Dgraph better?
MariaDB scores 86/100 in our evaluation. MariaDB is free and Dgraph is freemium.
What are MariaDB and Dgraph used for?
MariaDB: Open-source relational database from MySQL creators. Dgraph: Distributed graph database with GraphQL.
What does MariaDB cost vs Dgraph?
MariaDB is completely free. Dgraph is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.