Uptrace vs Jaeger: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Uptrace and Jaeger 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:
Uptrace
Open-source APM with distributed tracing
Best for you if:
- • You need debugging features specifically
- • Uptrace is an open-source APM powered by OpenTelemetry
- • It provides distributed tracing, metrics, and logs in one platform
Jaeger
Open-source distributed tracing system
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Jaeger is an open-source distributed tracing system for monitoring microservices
- • It tracks request flows across services to troubleshoot latency and failures
| At a Glance |  Uptrace |  Jaeger |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free |
Best For | Debugging | API Tools |
Rating | 78/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Uptrace | Jaeger |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| Editorial Score | 78 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | DebuggingMonitoring | API ToolsMonitoring |
How Uptrace and Jaeger Compare
Uptrace
Open-source APM with distributed tracing
Paid · 78/100 score
Jaeger
Open-source distributed tracing system
Free · 85/100 score
Uptrace is a debugging tool. Jaeger is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Jaeger is free. Uptrace is paid.
Go with: Jaeger
Want the highest-rated option?
Uptrace: 78/100. Jaeger: 85/100.
Go with: Jaeger
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Jaeger
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Uptrace is paid. Jaeger is free. Go with Jaeger if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Uptrace is a debugging tool. Jaeger is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Jaeger scores higher: 85/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
Jaeger
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 78
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Uptrace
- Better fit for debugging
The Bottom Line
Jaeger (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Uptrace or Jaeger better?
Jaeger scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Uptrace is paid and Jaeger is free.
What are Uptrace and Jaeger used for?
Uptrace: Open-source APM with distributed tracing. Jaeger: Open-source distributed tracing system.
What does Uptrace cost vs Jaeger?
Uptrace is a paid tool. Jaeger is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.