Rollbar vs Airbrake: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Rollbar and Airbrake 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:
Rollbar
Real-time error tracking and debugging
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need debugging features specifically
- • Rollbar is an error monitoring platform for tracking and debugging issues
- • It captures errors across platforms with context for faster resolution
Airbrake
Error monitoring and performance tracking for applications
Best for you if:
- • You need monitoring features specifically
- • Airbrake is an error monitoring service that helps development teams catch and fix bugs faster
- • It captures exceptions with full stack traces, deployment tracking, and performance insights
| At a Glance |  Airbrake | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Debugging | Monitoring |
Rating | 82/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Rollbar | Airbrake |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | DebuggingBug Tracking | MonitoringDebugging |
Understanding the Differences
Both Rollbar and Airbrake solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Rollbar positions itself as "real-time error tracking and debugging" while Airbrakefocuses on "error monitoring and performance tracking for applications". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Rollbar
Rollbar makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 82/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Airbrake
Airbrake is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Rollbar lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Rollbar
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Rollbar handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Rollbar
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Rollbar
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Rollbar, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Rollbar higher (82/100). But the community has upvoted Airbrake more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Rollbar Does Better
- Higher overall score (82/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Airbrake If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Rollbar (82/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Rollbar scores higher in our analysis, but Airbrake might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rollbar or Airbrake better?
Based on our analysis, Rollbar scores higher with 82/100. Rollbar isfreemium while Airbrake is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Rollbar to Airbrake easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Rollbar and Airbrake offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Rollbar is freemium with a free tier.Airbrake is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.