Prefect vs Dagster: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Prefect and Dagster 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:
Prefect
Modern workflow orchestration platform
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need automation features specifically
- • Prefect is a modern data workflow orchestration platform
- • It schedules and monitors Python data pipelines with observability
Dagster
Data orchestration platform for ML pipelines
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need workflow automation features specifically
- • Modern data pipeline tool
- • Declarative YAML configurations
| At a Glance |  Prefect |  Dagster |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Automation | Workflow Automation |
Rating | 84/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Prefect | Dagster |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AutomationWorkflow Automation | Workflow AutomationCI/CD |
How Prefect and Dagster Compare
Prefect
Modern workflow orchestration platform
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Dagster
Data orchestration platform for ML pipelines
Paid · 85/100 score
Prefect is a automation tool. Dagster is in workflow automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Prefect has a free tier. Dagster is paid only.
Go with: Prefect
Want the highest-rated option?
Prefect: 84/100. Dagster: 85/100.
Go with: Dagster
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Dagster
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Prefect is freemium. Dagster is paid. Prefect lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Prefect is a automation tool. Dagster is in workflow automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Dagster scores higher: 85/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Dagster
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 84
- Our pick for this comparison
Prefect
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for automation
The Bottom Line
Dagster (85/100) is our pick. Prefect has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Prefect or Dagster better?
Dagster scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Prefect is freemium and Dagster is paid.
What are Prefect and Dagster used for?
Prefect: Modern workflow orchestration platform. Dagster: Data orchestration platform for ML pipelines.
What does Prefect cost vs Dagster?
Prefect is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Dagster is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.