MongoDB vs Cassandra: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between MongoDB and Cassandra 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:
MongoDB
Document database that made NoSQL mainstream
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • Document database storing JSON-like data structures
- • Flexible schema that adapts as applications evolve
Cassandra
Distributed NoSQL database for massive scale
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Apache Cassandra is a distributed NoSQL database designed for massive scalability
- • It handles petabytes of data across multiple data centers with no single point of failure
| At a Glance |  MongoDB |  Cassandra |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Database Builders | Database Builders |
Rating | 85/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | MongoDB | Cassandra |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Database Builders | Database BuildersManaged Databases |
How MongoDB and Cassandra Compare
MongoDB
Document database that made NoSQL mainstream
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Cassandra
Distributed NoSQL database for massive scale
Free · 82/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Cassandra is free. MongoDB is freemium.
Go with: Cassandra
Want the highest-rated option?
MongoDB: 85/100. Cassandra: 82/100.
Go with: MongoDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: MongoDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
MongoDB is freemium. Cassandra is free. Go with Cassandra if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are database builders tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
MongoDB scores higher: 85/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
MongoDB
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 82
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Cassandra
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
MongoDB (85/100) is our pick. That said, Cassandra is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MongoDB or Cassandra better?
MongoDB scores 85/100 in our evaluation. MongoDB is freemium and Cassandra is free.
What are MongoDB and Cassandra used for?
MongoDB: Document database that made NoSQL mainstream. Cassandra: Distributed NoSQL database for massive scale.
What does MongoDB cost vs Cassandra?
MongoDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Cassandra is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.