Redash vs Lightdash: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Redash and Lightdash 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:
Redash
Open-source data visualization and dashboards
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • Redash is an open-source tool for querying databases and visualizing data
- • It connects to any data source and creates dashboards with SQL
Lightdash
Open-source BI for dbt projects
Best for you if:
- • Lightdash is an open-source BI tool that connects to dbt projects
- • It creates dashboards and visualizations directly from dbt metrics
| At a Glance |  Redash |  Lightdash |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Business Intelligence | Business Intelligence |
Rating | 82/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Redash | Lightdash |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Business IntelligenceData Visualization | Business IntelligenceData Visualization |
How Redash and Lightdash Compare
Redash
Open-source data visualization and dashboards
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Lightdash
Open-source BI for dbt projects
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Redash
Want the highest-rated option?
Redash: 82/100. Lightdash: 80/100.
Go with: Redash
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Redash
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 business intelligence tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Redash scores higher: 82/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Redash
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Lightdash
The Bottom Line
Redash (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Redash or Lightdash better?
Redash scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Redash and Lightdash used for?
Redash: Open-source data visualization and dashboards. Lightdash: Open-source BI for dbt projects.
What does Redash cost vs Lightdash?
Redash is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Lightdash is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.