SurrealDB MCP vs PlanetScale: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between SurrealDB MCP and PlanetScale 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.
Bottom line: PlanetScale wins this matchup. PostgreSQL is our overall Data & Databases pick. PostgreSQL is our free Data & Databases pick. Pick SurrealDB MCP if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
SurrealDB MCP
Typed database interface for agents with schema discovery and SurrealDB Cloud management
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
- • You want typed database interface for agents with schema discovery and SurrealDB Cloud management
PlanetScale
Serverless PostgreSQL and MySQL databases with branching
Best for you if:
- • You want database branching
- • You want non-blocking migrations
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $5/monthPostgres (Single Node) |
Best For | Data & Databases | Data & Databases |
Rating | - | 4.2/5 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose SurrealDB MCP or PlanetScale?
Choose SurrealDB MCP if
Typed database interface for agents with schema discovery and SurrealDB Cloud management
- You want a free tier before you commit
- You want typed database interface for agents with schema discovery and SurrealDB Cloud management
Choose PlanetScale if
Serverless PostgreSQL and MySQL databases with branching
- You want database branching
- You want non-blocking migrations
| Feature | SurrealDB MCP | PlanetScale |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.2/5 6 reviews |
| Categories | Data & DatabasesDeveloper Tools | Data & DatabasesCloud & Infrastructure |
In-Depth Analysis
SurrealDB MCP
Typed database interface for agents with schema discovery and SurrealDB Cloud management
The Cloud Start tier at $0/hr with 1GB free storage forever is exceptionally generous for prototyping and small projects, while the Cloud Scale tier at $0.192/node/hr offers competitive horizontal scaling for production workloads.
Watch out
Cloud Scale tier has no free storage included
Key features
PlanetScale
Serverless PostgreSQL and MySQL databases with branching
PlanetScale removed its free tier in 2024, making it a harder sell for hobbyists.
Watch out
No free tier, even development databases cost $5/mo minimum
Strengths
- +Database branching
- +Non-blocking migrations
- +Excellent DX
Weaknesses
- -MySQL only
- -No free tier anymore
Key features
Pricing: SurrealDB MCP vs PlanetScale
| Plan | SurrealDB MCP | PlanetScale |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0/hr Cloud - Start | $5 month Postgres (Single Node) |
| Tier 2 | $0.192/node/hr Cloud - Scale | $39 month Vitess PS-10 (Base) |
| Tier 3 | Contact us for pricing Enterprise - Self-hosted | $39 month starting Vitess HA (3-zone) |
| Tier 4 | Free Agent Memory - Sandbox | $50 month starting Metal |
| Tier 5 | from $30 a month Agent Memory - Self-serve | Custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on SurrealDB MCP pricing and PlanetScale pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
SurrealDB MCP has a free tier. PlanetScale is paid only.
Go with: SurrealDB MCP
Want the highest-rated option?
PlanetScale is rated 4.2/5. SurrealDB MCP has no ratings yet.
Go with: PlanetScale
Value user reviews?
SurrealDB MCP: no ratings yet. PlanetScale: 6 reviews (4.2/5).
Go with: PlanetScale
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
SurrealDB MCP is freemium. PlanetScale is paid. SurrealDB MCP lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are data & databases tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
PlanetScale is rated 4.2/5; SurrealDB MCP has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
PlanetScale
- Our pick for this comparison
SurrealDB MCP
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
PlanetScale wins this matchup. PostgreSQL is our overall Data & Databases pick. PostgreSQL is our free Data & Databases pick. SurrealDB MCP has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SurrealDB MCP or PlanetScale better?
PlanetScale is rated in our evaluation. SurrealDB MCP is freemium and PlanetScale is paid.
What are SurrealDB MCP and PlanetScale used for?
SurrealDB MCP: Typed database interface for agents with schema discovery and SurrealDB Cloud management. PlanetScale: Serverless PostgreSQL and MySQL databases with branching.
What does SurrealDB MCP cost vs PlanetScale?
SurrealDB MCP is freemium (free tier + paid plans). PlanetScale is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.
