QuestDB vs TimescaleDB: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between QuestDB 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:
QuestDB
Time series database for fast analytics
Best for you if:
- • QuestDB is a time-series database optimized for fast ingest and queries
- • It handles millions of rows per second with SQL and PostgreSQL compatibility
TimescaleDB
Time series database on PostgreSQL
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • TimescaleDB is a time-series database built on PostgreSQL
- • It handles time-series data with full SQL and PostgreSQL compatibility
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Time Tracking | Time Tracking |
Rating | 82/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | QuestDB | TimescaleDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Time TrackingETL & Data Pipelines | Time TrackingManaged Databases |
How QuestDB and TimescaleDB Compare
QuestDB
Time series database for fast analytics
Free tier available · 82/100 score
TimescaleDB
Time series database on PostgreSQL
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: QuestDB
Want the highest-rated option?
QuestDB: 82/100. TimescaleDB: 86/100.
Go with: TimescaleDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: TimescaleDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are time tracking tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
TimescaleDB scores higher: 86/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
TimescaleDB
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 82
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
QuestDB
The Bottom Line
TimescaleDB (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is QuestDB or TimescaleDB better?
TimescaleDB scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are QuestDB and TimescaleDB used for?
QuestDB: Time series database for fast analytics. TimescaleDB: Time series database on PostgreSQL.
What does QuestDB cost vs TimescaleDB?
QuestDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). TimescaleDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.