Uptrace vs LightRun: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Uptrace and LightRun 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 want the higher-rated option (7.8/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • Uptrace is an open-source APM powered by OpenTelemetry
- • It provides distributed tracing, metrics, and logs in one platform
LightRun
See your code in action, across any environment, with AI-powered runtime debugging.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Provides AI-powered, line-level runtime debugging across all SDLC environments.
- • Enables dynamic logging, metrics, and snapshots in live applications without code changes or redeployment.
| At a Glance |  Uptrace |  LightRun |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Debugging | Debugging |
Rating | 78/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Uptrace | LightRun |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 78 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | DebuggingMonitoring | DebuggingMonitoring |
How Uptrace and LightRun Compare
Uptrace
Open-source APM with distributed tracing
Paid · 78/100 score
LightRun
See your code in action, across any environment, with AI-powered runtime debugging.
Free tier available
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
LightRun has a free tier. Uptrace is paid only.
Go with: LightRun
Want the highest-rated option?
Uptrace scores 78/100. LightRun is unrated.
Go with: Uptrace
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Uptrace
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Uptrace is paid. LightRun is freemium. LightRun lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are debugging tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Uptrace
- Higher score: 78/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
LightRun
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Uptrace (78/100) is our pick. LightRun has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Uptrace or LightRun better?
Uptrace scores 78/100 in our evaluation. Uptrace is paid and LightRun is freemium.
What are Uptrace and LightRun used for?
Uptrace: Open-source APM with distributed tracing. LightRun: See your code in action, across any environment, with AI-powered runtime debugging..
What does Uptrace cost vs LightRun?
Uptrace is a paid tool. LightRun is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.