Neon vs PlanetScale: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Neon and PlanetScale 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:
Neon
Serverless Postgres
Best for you if:
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • Serverless Postgres that scales to zero
- • Branching for database development
PlanetScale
MySQL serverless platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.7/10)
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • Serverless MySQL platform
- • Branching for database like Git
| At a Glance |  Neon |  PlanetScale |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Managed Databases | Hosting & Deployment |
Rating | 87/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Neon | PlanetScale |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 87 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Managed DatabasesServerless Databases | Hosting & DeploymentManaged Databases |
How Neon and PlanetScale Compare
Neon
Serverless Postgres
Free tier available · 87/100 score
PlanetScale
MySQL serverless platform
Free tier available · 88/100 score
Neon is a managed databases tool. PlanetScale is in hosting & deployment.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Neon
Want the highest-rated option?
Neon: 87/100. PlanetScale: 88/100.
Go with: PlanetScale
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: PlanetScale
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?
Neon is a managed databases tool. PlanetScale is in hosting & deployment. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
PlanetScale scores higher: 88/100 vs 87/100.
Key Takeaways
PlanetScale
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 87
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Neon
- Better fit for managed databases
The Bottom Line
PlanetScale (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Neon or PlanetScale better?
PlanetScale scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Neon and PlanetScale used for?
Neon: Serverless Postgres. PlanetScale: MySQL serverless platform.
What does Neon cost vs PlanetScale?
Neon is freemium (free tier + paid plans). PlanetScale is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.