PostgreSQL vs RethinkDB: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between PostgreSQL and RethinkDB 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.
Bottom line: PostgreSQL is our overall pick for data & databases workflows. Pick RethinkDB if you need a fully free option.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
PostgreSQL
Advanced open source SQL database
Best for you if:
- • PostgreSQL is an advanced open-source relational database
- • It provides extensibility, standards compliance, and enterprise features
RethinkDB
Real-time database for modern apps
Best for you if:
- • RethinkDB is a real-time document database with push-based architecture
- • It pushes changes to applications in real-time for live updates
| At a Glance |  PostgreSQL |  RethinkDB |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Data & Databases | Data & Databases |
Rating | 4.5/5 | 3.6/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose PostgreSQL or RethinkDB?
Choose PostgreSQL if
Advanced open source SQL database
- Most advanced open-source database
- Excellent for complex queries and JSON
- Strong data integrity and ACID compliance
Choose RethinkDB if
Real-time database for modern apps
- Real-time database
- Good for live updates
- Open source
| Feature | PostgreSQL | RethinkDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 1,082 reviews | ★3.6/5 17 reviews |
| Categories | Data & Databases | Data & DatabasesWebSocket Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
PostgreSQL
Advanced open source SQL database
Strengths
- +Most advanced open-source database
- +Excellent for complex queries and JSON
- +Strong data integrity and ACID compliance
- +Highly extensible with extensions
- +Large community and ecosystem
Weaknesses
- -Can be complex to tune for performance
- -Vertical scaling more limited than NoSQL
- -Replication setup requires expertise
- -Memory-intensive for large datasets
- -Less suitable for simple key-value use cases
Key features
RethinkDB
Real-time database for modern apps
Strengths
- +Real-time database
- +Good for live updates
- +Open source
- +Good query language
- +Push architecture
Weaknesses
- -Less popular now
- -Company dissolved
- -Community smaller
- -Production concerns
- -Better alternatives exist
Key features
Pricing: PostgreSQL vs RethinkDB
| Plan | PostgreSQL | RethinkDB |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Free | Free Open Source |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on PostgreSQL pricing and RethinkDB pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: PostgreSQL
Want the highest-rated option?
PostgreSQL: 4.5/5 (1,082 reviews). RethinkDB: 3.6/5 (17 reviews).
Go with: PostgreSQL
Value user reviews?
PostgreSQL: 1,082 reviews (4.5/5). RethinkDB: 17 reviews (3.6/5).
Go with: PostgreSQL
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?
Both are data & databases tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
PostgreSQL is rated higher: 4.5/5 vs 3.6/5.
Key Takeaways
PostgreSQL
- Higher user rating: 4.5/5 vs 3.6/5
- Larger review base (1,082 reviews)
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
RethinkDB
- Choose if you want real-time database for modern apps
The Bottom Line
PostgreSQL is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PostgreSQL or RethinkDB better?
PostgreSQL is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are PostgreSQL and RethinkDB used for?
PostgreSQL: Advanced open source SQL database. RethinkDB: Real-time database for modern apps.
What does PostgreSQL cost vs RethinkDB?
PostgreSQL is completely free. RethinkDB is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.