Node-RED vs Apache NiFi: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Node-RED and Apache NiFi 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:
Node-RED
Flow-based programming for IoT
Best for you if:
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • Node-RED is a flow-based programming tool for wiring IoT and APIs
- • It creates automation flows with a visual browser-based editor
Apache NiFi
Automate data flow between systems with visual interface
Best for you if:
- • You need diagramming features specifically
- • Apache NiFi is a data integration platform for automating data flows between systems
- • It provides a visual interface for designing data pipelines with 300+ built-in processors
| At a Glance |  Node-RED |  Apache NiFi |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | Diagramming |
Rating | 80/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Node-RED | Apache NiFi |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 80 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendAutomation | DiagrammingAPI Tools |
How Node-RED and Apache NiFi Compare
Node-RED
Flow-based programming for IoT
Free · 80/100 score
Apache NiFi
Automate data flow between systems with visual interface
Free · 80/100 score
Node-RED is a low-code backend tool. Apache NiFi is in diagramming.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Node-RED
Want the highest-rated option?
Node-RED: 80/100. Apache NiFi: 80/100.
Go with: Node-RED
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Node-RED
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Node-RED is a low-code backend tool. Apache NiFi is in diagramming. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Both score 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Node-RED
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Apache NiFi
- Better fit for diagramming
The Bottom Line
Node-RED (80/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Node-RED or Apache NiFi better?
Node-RED scores 80/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Node-RED and Apache NiFi used for?
Node-RED: Flow-based programming for IoT. Apache NiFi: Automate data flow between systems with visual interface.
What does Node-RED cost vs Apache NiFi?
Node-RED is completely free. Apache NiFi is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.