RethinkDB vs Redis: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between RethinkDB and Redis 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.
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
- • RethinkDB is a real-time document database with push-based architecture
- • It pushes changes to applications in real-time for live updates
Redis
Managed in-memory database for real-time data across clouds
Best for you if:
- • In-memory data store for caching and real-time features
- • Microsecond response times for common operations
| At a Glance |  RethinkDB |  Redis |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | $5/moFlex |
Best For | Data & Databases | Data & Databases |
Rating | - | - |
Choose RethinkDB or Redis?
Choose RethinkDB if
Real-time database for modern apps
- Real-time database
- Good for live updates
- Open source
- You want a fully free tool (Redis requires payment)
Choose Redis if
Managed in-memory database for real-time data across clouds
- Lightning fast
- Versatile data types
- Simple to use
| Feature | RethinkDB | Redis |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★3.6/5 17 reviews | ★4.5/5 179 reviews |
| Categories | Data & DatabasesWebSocket Tools | Data & DatabasesCloud & Infrastructure |
In-Depth Analysis
RethinkDB
Real-time database for modern apps
Strengths
- +Real-time database
- +Good for live updates
- +Open source
- +Good query language
- +Push architecture
Weaknesses
- -Less popular now
- -Company dissolved
- -Community smaller
- -Production concerns
- -Better alternatives exist
Key features
Redis
Managed in-memory database for real-time data across clouds
Strengths
- +Lightning fast
- +Versatile data types
- +Simple to use
Weaknesses
- -Memory limits
- -Persistence complexity
Key features
Pricing: RethinkDB vs Redis
| Plan | RethinkDB | Redis |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Open Source | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $5 Flex |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $5 Essentials |
| Tier 4 | N/A | $200 Pro |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on RethinkDB pricing and Redis pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
RethinkDB is free. Redis is freemium.
Go with: RethinkDB
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: RethinkDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Redis
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
RethinkDB is free. Redis is freemium. Go with RethinkDB if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are data & databases tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Redis
- Higher user rating: 4.5/5 vs 3.6/5
- Larger review base (179 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
RethinkDB
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Redis is our pick. That said, RethinkDB is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is RethinkDB or Redis better?
Redis is rated in our evaluation. RethinkDB is free and Redis is freemium.
What are RethinkDB and Redis used for?
RethinkDB: Real-time database for modern apps. Redis: Managed in-memory database for real-time data across clouds.
What does RethinkDB cost vs Redis?
RethinkDB is completely free. Redis is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.