Snowflake vs Databricks: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Snowflake and Databricks 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:
Snowflake
Cloud data platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.7/10)
- • You need big data analytics features specifically
- • Cloud data warehouse platform
- • Separates storage and compute
Databricks
Data and AI platform
Best for you if:
- • You need business intelligence features specifically
- • Data and AI platform using consumption-based DBU pricing from $0.07 to $0.65+/DBU
- • Lakehouse combines data lake and warehouse on AWS, Azure, or GCP with Spark engine
| At a Glance |  Snowflake |  Databricks |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Big Data Analytics | Business Intelligence |
Rating | 88/100 | 87/100 |
| Feature | Snowflake | Databricks |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 87 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Big Data AnalyticsBusiness Intelligence | Business IntelligenceData Visualization |
How Snowflake and Databricks Compare
Snowflake
Cloud data platform
Paid · 88/100 score
Databricks
Data and AI platform
Paid · 87/100 score
Snowflake is a big data analytics tool. Databricks is in business intelligence.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Snowflake
Want the highest-rated option?
Snowflake: 88/100. Databricks: 87/100.
Go with: Snowflake
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Snowflake
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Snowflake is a big data analytics tool. Databricks is in business intelligence. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Snowflake scores higher: 88/100 vs 87/100.
Key Takeaways
Snowflake
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 87
- Our pick for this comparison
Databricks
- Better fit for business intelligence
The Bottom Line
Snowflake (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Snowflake or Databricks better?
Snowflake scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Snowflake and Databricks used for?
Snowflake: Cloud data platform. Databricks: Data and AI platform.
What does Snowflake cost vs Databricks?
Snowflake is a paid tool. Databricks is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.