PostgreSQL vs TimescaleDB: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between PostgreSQL and TimescaleDB 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:
PostgreSQL
Advanced open source SQL database
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need database builders features specifically
- • PostgreSQL is an advanced open-source relational database
- • It provides extensibility, standards compliance, and enterprise features
TimescaleDB
Time series database on PostgreSQL
Best for you if:
- • You need time tracking features specifically
- • TimescaleDB is a time-series database built on PostgreSQL
- • It handles time-series data with full SQL and PostgreSQL compatibility
| At a Glance |  PostgreSQL | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Database Builders | Time Tracking |
Rating | 90/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | PostgreSQL | TimescaleDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 90 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Database BuildersManaged Databases | Time TrackingManaged Databases |
How PostgreSQL and TimescaleDB Compare
PostgreSQL
Advanced open source SQL database
Free · 90/100 score
TimescaleDB
Time series database on PostgreSQL
Free tier available · 86/100 score
PostgreSQL is a database builders tool. TimescaleDB is in time tracking.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
PostgreSQL is free. TimescaleDB is freemium.
Go with: PostgreSQL
Want the highest-rated option?
PostgreSQL: 90/100. TimescaleDB: 86/100.
Go with: PostgreSQL
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: PostgreSQL
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
PostgreSQL is free. TimescaleDB is freemium. Go with PostgreSQL if free matters most.
What's your use case?
PostgreSQL is a database builders tool. TimescaleDB is in time tracking. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
PostgreSQL scores higher: 90/100 vs 86/100.
Key Takeaways
PostgreSQL
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 86
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
TimescaleDB
- Better fit for time tracking
The Bottom Line
PostgreSQL (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PostgreSQL or TimescaleDB better?
PostgreSQL scores 90/100 in our evaluation. PostgreSQL is free and TimescaleDB is freemium.
What are PostgreSQL and TimescaleDB used for?
PostgreSQL: Advanced open source SQL database. TimescaleDB: Time series database on PostgreSQL.
What does PostgreSQL cost vs TimescaleDB?
PostgreSQL is completely free. TimescaleDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.