Meltano vs Fivetran: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Meltano and Fivetran 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:
Meltano
Open-source data integration platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 8.3/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need workflow automation features specifically
- • Meltano is an open-source platform for running Singer ELT pipelines
- • It orchestrates data extraction and loading with version-controlled configs
Fivetran
Automated data integration and ELT
Best for you if:
- • You need automation features specifically
- • ELT data replication
- • Sync data to your warehouse
| At a Glance |  Meltano |  Fivetran |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Workflow Automation | Automation |
Rating | 84/100 | 83/100 |
| Feature | Meltano | Fivetran |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 83 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Workflow AutomationETL & Data Pipelines | AutomationETL & Data Pipelines |
How Meltano and Fivetran Compare
Meltano
Open-source data integration platform
Free · 84/100 score
Fivetran
Automated data integration and ELT
Paid · 83/100 score
Meltano is a workflow automation tool. Fivetran is in automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Meltano is free. Fivetran is paid.
Go with: Meltano
Want the highest-rated option?
Meltano: 84/100. Fivetran: 83/100.
Go with: Meltano
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Meltano
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Meltano is free. Fivetran is paid. Go with Meltano if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Meltano is a workflow automation tool. Fivetran is in automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Meltano scores higher: 84/100 vs 83/100.
Key Takeaways
Meltano
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 83
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Fivetran
- Better fit for automation
The Bottom Line
Meltano (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Meltano or Fivetran better?
Meltano scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Meltano is free and Fivetran is paid.
What are Meltano and Fivetran used for?
Meltano: Open-source data integration platform. Fivetran: Automated data integration and ELT.
What does Meltano cost vs Fivetran?
Meltano is completely free. Fivetran is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.