Vitess vs MySQL: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Vitess and MySQL 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:
Vitess
Scalable MySQL clustering system
Best for you if:
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • Vitess is a database clustering system for horizontal scaling of MySQL
- • It shards MySQL for high availability and scalability
MySQL
Popular open-source relational database
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You need database builders features specifically
- • MySQL is the world's most popular open-source relational database
- • It powers millions of websites and applications with reliable performance
| At a Glance |  Vitess |  MySQL |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Database Builders |
Rating | 82/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | Vitess | MySQL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentDatabase Builders | Database BuildersManaged Databases |
How Vitess and MySQL Compare
Vitess
Scalable MySQL clustering system
Free · 82/100 score
MySQL
Popular open-source relational database
Free · 84/100 score
Vitess is a hosting & deployment tool. MySQL is in database builders.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Vitess
Want the highest-rated option?
Vitess: 82/100. MySQL: 84/100.
Go with: MySQL
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: MySQL
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Vitess is a hosting & deployment tool. MySQL is in database builders. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
MySQL scores higher: 84/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
MySQL
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 82
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Vitess
- Better fit for hosting & deployment
The Bottom Line
MySQL (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vitess or MySQL better?
MySQL scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Vitess and MySQL used for?
Vitess: Scalable MySQL clustering system. MySQL: Popular open-source relational database.
What does Vitess cost vs MySQL?
Vitess is completely free. MySQL is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.