Memfault vs Zipkin: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Memfault and Zipkin 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:
Memfault
Embedded observability and OTA for IoT devices to fix defects before customers notice.
Best for you if:
- • You need debugging features specifically
- • Provides real-time observability for all types of embedded and IoT devices.
- • Automates crash data collection, debugging, and root cause analysis for in-field issues.
Zipkin
Distributed tracing system
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Zipkin is an open-source distributed tracing system
- • It collects timing data for troubleshooting microservices
| At a Glance |  Memfault |  Zipkin |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Debugging | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Memfault | Zipkin |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | DebuggingMonitoring | API ToolsDebugging |
How Memfault and Zipkin Compare
Memfault
Embedded observability and OTA for IoT devices to fix defects before customers notice.
Free tier available
Zipkin
Distributed tracing system
Free · 82/100 score
Memfault is a debugging tool. Zipkin is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Zipkin is free. Memfault is freemium.
Go with: Zipkin
Want the highest-rated option?
Zipkin scores 82/100. Memfault is unrated.
Go with: Zipkin
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Zipkin
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Memfault is freemium. Zipkin is free. Go with Zipkin if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Memfault is a debugging tool. Zipkin is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Zipkin
- Higher score: 82/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Memfault
- Better fit for debugging
The Bottom Line
Zipkin (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Memfault or Zipkin better?
Zipkin scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Memfault is freemium and Zipkin is free.
What are Memfault and Zipkin used for?
Memfault: Embedded observability and OTA for IoT devices to fix defects before customers notice.. Zipkin: Distributed tracing system.
What does Memfault cost vs Zipkin?
Memfault is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Zipkin is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.