TiDB vs SingleStore: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between TiDB and SingleStore 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 want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • TiDB is a distributed SQL database with horizontal scalability
- • It provides MySQL compatibility with HTAP capabilities
SingleStore
Distributed SQL database for real-time analytics
Best for you if:
- • SingleStore is a distributed SQL database for real-time analytics
- • It handles transactional and analytical workloads in one system
| At a Glance |  TiDB |  SingleStore |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Managed Databases | Managed Databases |
Rating | 84/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | TiDB | SingleStore |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Managed DatabasesETL & Data Pipelines | Managed DatabasesETL & Data Pipelines |
How TiDB and SingleStore Compare
TiDB
Distributed SQL database for hybrid workloads
Free tier available · 84/100 score
SingleStore
Distributed SQL database for real-time analytics
Paid · 82/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
TiDB has a free tier. SingleStore is paid only.
Go with: TiDB
Want the highest-rated option?
TiDB: 84/100. SingleStore: 82/100.
Go with: TiDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: TiDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
TiDB is freemium. SingleStore is paid. TiDB lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are managed databases tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
TiDB scores higher: 84/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
TiDB
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 82
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
SingleStore
The Bottom Line
TiDB (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TiDB or SingleStore better?
TiDB scores 84/100 in our evaluation. TiDB is freemium and SingleStore is paid.
What are TiDB and SingleStore used for?
TiDB: Distributed SQL database for hybrid workloads. SingleStore: Distributed SQL database for real-time analytics.
What does TiDB cost vs SingleStore?
TiDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). SingleStore is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.