Neo4j vs SpiceDB: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Neo4j and SpiceDB 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 0.0/10)
- • 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
SpiceDB
Stop building authorization, start building value with battle-tested permissions infrastructure.
Best for you if:
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • Provides a centralized, scalable authorization system based on Google Zanzibar (SpiceDB).
- • Frees engineering teams from building and maintaining complex authorization logic.
| At a Glance |  Neo4j |  SpiceDB |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Data Visualization | Managed Databases |
Rating | 90/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Neo4j | SpiceDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 90 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Data VisualizationDatabase Builders | Managed DatabasesIdentity & Access |
How Neo4j and SpiceDB Compare
Neo4j
Native graph database platform
Free tier available · 90/100 score
SpiceDB
Stop building authorization, start building value with battle-tested permissions infrastructure.
Free tier available
Neo4j is a data visualization tool. SpiceDB is in managed databases.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Neo4j
Want the highest-rated option?
Neo4j scores 90/100. SpiceDB is unrated.
Go with: Neo4j
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Neo4j
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Neo4j is a data visualization tool. SpiceDB is in managed databases. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Neo4j
- Higher score: 90/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
SpiceDB
- Better fit for managed databases
The Bottom Line
Neo4j (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Neo4j or SpiceDB better?
Neo4j scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Neo4j and SpiceDB used for?
Neo4j: Native graph database platform. SpiceDB: Stop building authorization, start building value with battle-tested permissions infrastructure..
What does Neo4j cost vs SpiceDB?
Neo4j is freemium (free tier + paid plans). SpiceDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.