Pelican vs Starlight: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Pelican and Starlight 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:
Pelican
Generate static websites with Python, Markdown, or reStructuredText for fast, flexible publishing.
Best for you if:
- • You need static site generators features specifically
- • Generates static sites using Python.
- • Supports Markdown and reStructuredText for content.
Starlight
Documentation site builder by Astro
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need documentation features specifically
- • Starlight is a documentation framework built on Astro
- • It creates fast, accessible documentation sites with minimal config
| At a Glance |  Pelican |  Starlight |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Static Site Generators | Documentation |
Rating | —/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Pelican | Starlight |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Static Site Generators | DocumentationStatic Site Generators |
How Pelican and Starlight Compare
Pelican
Generate static websites with Python, Markdown, or reStructuredText for fast, flexible publishing.
Free
Starlight
Documentation site builder by Astro
Free · 82/100 score
Pelican is a static site generators tool. Starlight is in documentation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Pelican
Want the highest-rated option?
Starlight scores 82/100. Pelican is unrated.
Go with: Starlight
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Starlight
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?
Pelican is a static site generators tool. Starlight is in documentation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Starlight
- Higher score: 82/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Pelican
- Better fit for static site generators
The Bottom Line
Starlight (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pelican or Starlight better?
Starlight scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Pelican and Starlight used for?
Pelican: Generate static websites with Python, Markdown, or reStructuredText for fast, flexible publishing.. Starlight: Documentation site builder by Astro.
What does Pelican cost vs Starlight?
Pelican is completely free. Starlight is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.