Neo4j vs Cassandra: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Neo4j 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:
Neo4j
Native graph database platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You need data visualization features specifically
- • Neo4j is a native graph database for connected data applications
- • It stores and queries relationships efficiently for recommendation and fraud detection
Cassandra
Distributed NoSQL database for massive scale
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need database builders features specifically
- • 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 |  Neo4j |  Cassandra |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Data Visualization | Database Builders |
Rating | 90/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Neo4j | Cassandra |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | 90 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Data VisualizationDatabase Builders | Database BuildersManaged Databases |
How Neo4j and Cassandra Compare
Neo4j
Native graph database platform
Free tier available · 90/100 score
Cassandra
Distributed NoSQL database for massive scale
Free · 82/100 score
Neo4j is a data visualization tool. Cassandra is in database builders.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Cassandra is free. Neo4j is freemium.
Go with: Cassandra
Want the highest-rated option?
Neo4j: 90/100. Cassandra: 82/100.
Go with: Neo4j
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Neo4j
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Neo4j is freemium. Cassandra is free. Go with Cassandra if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Neo4j is a data visualization tool. Cassandra is in database builders. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neo4j scores higher: 90/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Neo4j
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 82
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Cassandra
- Completely free
- Better fit for database builders
The Bottom Line
Neo4j (90/100) is our pick. That said, Cassandra is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Neo4j or Cassandra better?
Neo4j scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Neo4j is freemium and Cassandra is free.
What are Neo4j and Cassandra used for?
Neo4j: Native graph database platform. Cassandra: Distributed NoSQL database for massive scale.
What does Neo4j cost vs Cassandra?
Neo4j is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Cassandra is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.