TimescaleDB vs Influxdb: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between TimescaleDB and Influxdb 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:
TimescaleDB
Time series database on PostgreSQL
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • You need time tracking features specifically
- • TimescaleDB is a time-series database built on PostgreSQL
- • It handles time-series data with full SQL and PostgreSQL compatibility
Influxdb
Time series database
Best for you if:
- • You need real-time analytics features specifically
- • InfluxDB is a time series database optimized for metrics, events, and real-time analytics
- • It handles high write and query loads for monitoring, IoT, and observability workloads
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Time Tracking | Real-Time Analytics |
Rating | 86/100 | 78/100 |
| Feature | TimescaleDB | Influxdb |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 78 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Time TrackingManaged Databases | Real-Time AnalyticsData Visualization |
How TimescaleDB and Influxdb Compare
TimescaleDB
Time series database on PostgreSQL
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Influxdb
Time series database
Free tier available · 78/100 score
TimescaleDB is a time tracking tool. Influxdb is in real-time analytics.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: TimescaleDB
Want the highest-rated option?
TimescaleDB: 86/100. Influxdb: 78/100.
Go with: TimescaleDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: TimescaleDB
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?
TimescaleDB is a time tracking tool. Influxdb is in real-time analytics. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
TimescaleDB scores higher: 86/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
TimescaleDB
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 78
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Influxdb
- Better fit for real-time analytics
The Bottom Line
TimescaleDB (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TimescaleDB or Influxdb better?
TimescaleDB scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are TimescaleDB and Influxdb used for?
TimescaleDB: Time series database on PostgreSQL. Influxdb: Time series database.
What does TimescaleDB cost vs Influxdb?
TimescaleDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Influxdb is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.