Weights & Biases vs MLflow: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Weights & Biases and MLflow 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Weights & Biases
ML experiment tracking
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • You need ai observability features specifically
- • MLOps platform for experiment tracking
- • Visualize and compare ML training runs
MLflow
Open-source MLOps platform
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need workflow automation features specifically
- • ML experiment tracking and versioning
- • Log metrics, parameters, and artifacts
| At a Glance |  MLflow | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | AI Observability | Workflow Automation |
Rating | 88/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Weights & Biases | MLflow |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 108 | 0 |
| Categories | AI ObservabilityAI Model Deployment | Workflow AutomationAI Model Deployment |
Understanding the Differences
Both Weights & Biases and MLflow solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Weights & Biases positions itself as "ml experiment tracking" while MLflowfocuses on "open-source mlops platform". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Weights & Biases
Weights & Biases makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 88/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose MLflow
MLflow is worth considering if you need a free tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Weights & Biases lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Weights & Biases
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Weights & Biases handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Weights & Biases
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Weights & Biases
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Zero budget? MLflow won't cost you anything.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Weights & Biases higher (88/100). But the community has upvoted Weights & Biases more (108 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Weights & Biases Does Better
- Higher overall score (88/100)
- More community upvotes
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider MLflow If
- You need a completely free solution
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Weights & Biases (88/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Weights & Biases scores higher in our analysis, but MLflow might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Weights & Biases or MLflow better?
Based on our analysis, Weights & Biases scores higher with 88/100. Weights & Biases isfreemium while MLflow is free. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Weights & Biases to MLflow easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Weights & Biases and MLflow offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Weights & Biases is freemium with a free tier.MLflow is completely free. Visit their websites for current trial offers.