Trino vs QuestDB: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Trino and QuestDB 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 22, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Trino
A distributed SQL query engine for big data analytics at ludicrous speed.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need big data analytics features specifically
- • Distributed SQL query engine for big data.
- • Queries data in-place across diverse sources.
QuestDB
Time series database for fast analytics
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need time tracking features specifically
- • QuestDB is a time-series database optimized for fast ingest and queries
- • It handles millions of rows per second with SQL and PostgreSQL compatibility
| At a Glance |  Trino |  QuestDB |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Big Data Analytics | Time Tracking |
Rating | —/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Trino | QuestDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Big Data AnalyticsBusiness Intelligence | Time TrackingETL & Data Pipelines |
How Trino and QuestDB Compare
Trino
A distributed SQL query engine for big data analytics at ludicrous speed.
Free
QuestDB
Time series database for fast analytics
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Trino is a big data analytics tool. QuestDB is in time tracking.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Trino is free. QuestDB is freemium.
Go with: Trino
Want the highest-rated option?
QuestDB scores 82/100. Trino is unrated.
Go with: QuestDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: QuestDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Trino is free. QuestDB is freemium. Go with Trino if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Trino is a big data analytics tool. QuestDB is in time tracking. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
QuestDB
- Higher score: 82/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Trino
- Completely free
- Better fit for big data analytics
The Bottom Line
QuestDB (82/100) is our pick. That said, Trino is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Trino or QuestDB better?
QuestDB scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Trino is free and QuestDB is freemium.
What are Trino and QuestDB used for?
Trino: A distributed SQL query engine for big data analytics at ludicrous speed.. QuestDB: Time series database for fast analytics.
What does Trino cost vs QuestDB?
Trino is completely free. QuestDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.