RethinkDB vs Couchbase: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between RethinkDB and Couchbase 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:
RethinkDB
Real-time database for modern apps
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need database builders features specifically
- • RethinkDB is a real-time document database with push-based architecture
- • It pushes changes to applications in real-time for live updates
Couchbase
Distributed NoSQL cloud database
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.0/10 vs 7.5/10)
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • Couchbase is a distributed NoSQL database combining document, key-value, and SQL capabilities
- • It offers sub-millisecond latency, built-in caching, and mobile sync for demanding applications
| At a Glance |  RethinkDB |  Couchbase |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Database Builders | Managed Databases |
Rating | 75/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | RethinkDB | Couchbase |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 75 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Database BuildersManaged Databases | Managed DatabasesMobile Backend |
How RethinkDB and Couchbase Compare
RethinkDB
Real-time database for modern apps
Free · 75/100 score
Couchbase
Distributed NoSQL cloud database
Paid · 80/100 score
RethinkDB is a database builders tool. Couchbase is in managed databases.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
RethinkDB is free. Couchbase is paid.
Go with: RethinkDB
Want the highest-rated option?
RethinkDB: 75/100. Couchbase: 80/100.
Go with: Couchbase
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Couchbase
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
RethinkDB is free. Couchbase is paid. Go with RethinkDB if free matters most.
What's your use case?
RethinkDB is a database builders tool. Couchbase is in managed databases. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Couchbase scores higher: 80/100 vs 75/100.
Key Takeaways
Couchbase
- Higher score: 80/100 vs 75
- Our pick for this comparison
RethinkDB
- Completely free
- Better fit for database builders
The Bottom Line
Couchbase (80/100) is our pick. That said, RethinkDB is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is RethinkDB or Couchbase better?
Couchbase scores 80/100 in our evaluation. RethinkDB is free and Couchbase is paid.
What are RethinkDB and Couchbase used for?
RethinkDB: Real-time database for modern apps. Couchbase: Distributed NoSQL cloud database.
What does RethinkDB cost vs Couchbase?
RethinkDB is completely free. Couchbase is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.