MariaDB vs SingleStore: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between MariaDB and SingleStore 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
SingleStore
Distributed SQL database for real-time analytics
Best for you if:
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • SingleStore is a distributed SQL database for real-time analytics
- • It handles transactional and analytical workloads in one system
| At a Glance |  MariaDB |  SingleStore |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Managed Databases |
Rating | 86/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | MariaDB | SingleStore |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentDatabase Builders | Managed DatabasesETL & Data Pipelines |
How MariaDB and SingleStore Compare
MariaDB
Open-source relational database from MySQL creators
Free · 86/100 score
SingleStore
Distributed SQL database for real-time analytics
Paid · 82/100 score
MariaDB is a hosting & deployment tool. SingleStore is in managed databases.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
MariaDB is free. SingleStore is paid.
Go with: MariaDB
Want the highest-rated option?
MariaDB: 86/100. SingleStore: 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. SingleStore is paid. Go with MariaDB if free matters most.
What's your use case?
MariaDB is a hosting & deployment tool. SingleStore is in managed databases. 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
SingleStore
- Better fit for managed databases
The Bottom Line
MariaDB (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MariaDB or SingleStore better?
MariaDB scores 86/100 in our evaluation. MariaDB is free and SingleStore is paid.
What are MariaDB and SingleStore used for?
MariaDB: Open-source relational database from MySQL creators. SingleStore: Distributed SQL database for real-time analytics.
What does MariaDB cost vs SingleStore?
MariaDB is completely free. SingleStore is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.