SigNoz vs Honeycomb: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between SigNoz and Honeycomb 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:
SigNoz
Open-source APM and observability
Best for you if:
- • You need data visualization features specifically
- • SigNoz is an open-source observability platform for metrics and traces
- • It provides APM, logs, and distributed tracing in one tool
Honeycomb
Observability for distributed systems
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Honeycomb is an observability platform for debugging production systems fast
- • It provides high-cardinality event analysis for understanding complex distributed systems
| At a Glance |  SigNoz | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Data Visualization | API Tools |
Rating | 84/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | SigNoz | Honeycomb |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Data VisualizationMonitoring | API ToolsDebugging |
How SigNoz and Honeycomb Compare
SigNoz
Open-source APM and observability
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Honeycomb
Observability for distributed systems
Free tier available · 86/100 score
SigNoz is a data visualization tool. Honeycomb is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: SigNoz
Want the highest-rated option?
SigNoz: 84/100. Honeycomb: 86/100.
Go with: Honeycomb
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Honeycomb
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?
SigNoz is a data visualization tool. Honeycomb is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Honeycomb scores higher: 86/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Honeycomb
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 84
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
SigNoz
- Better fit for data visualization
The Bottom Line
Honeycomb (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SigNoz or Honeycomb better?
Honeycomb scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are SigNoz and Honeycomb used for?
SigNoz: Open-source APM and observability. Honeycomb: Observability for distributed systems.
What does SigNoz cost vs Honeycomb?
SigNoz is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Honeycomb is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.