TiDB vs MariaDB: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between TiDB and MariaDB 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:
TiDB
Distributed SQL database for hybrid workloads
Best for you if:
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • TiDB is a distributed SQL database with horizontal scalability
- • It provides MySQL compatibility with HTAP capabilities
MariaDB
Open-source relational database from MySQL creators
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • MariaDB is an open-source relational database forked from MySQL
- • It provides enhanced performance and features while maintaining MySQL compatibility
| At a Glance |  TiDB |  MariaDB |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Managed Databases | Hosting & Deployment |
Rating | 84/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | TiDB | MariaDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Managed DatabasesETL & Data Pipelines | Hosting & DeploymentDatabase Builders |
How TiDB and MariaDB Compare
TiDB
Distributed SQL database for hybrid workloads
Free tier available · 84/100 score
MariaDB
Open-source relational database from MySQL creators
Free · 86/100 score
TiDB is a managed databases tool. MariaDB is in hosting & deployment.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
MariaDB is free. TiDB is freemium.
Go with: MariaDB
Want the highest-rated option?
TiDB: 84/100. MariaDB: 86/100.
Go with: MariaDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: MariaDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
TiDB is freemium. MariaDB is free. Go with MariaDB if free matters most.
What's your use case?
TiDB is a managed databases tool. MariaDB is in hosting & deployment. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
MariaDB scores higher: 86/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
MariaDB
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 84
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
TiDB
- Better fit for managed databases
The Bottom Line
MariaDB (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TiDB or MariaDB better?
MariaDB scores 86/100 in our evaluation. TiDB is freemium and MariaDB is free.
What are TiDB and MariaDB used for?
TiDB: Distributed SQL database for hybrid workloads. MariaDB: Open-source relational database from MySQL creators.
What does TiDB cost vs MariaDB?
TiDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). MariaDB is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.