Zephyr Project vs Particle: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Zephyr Project and Particle 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:
Zephyr Project
Build secure, connected, and future-proof devices with a proven RTOS ecosystem.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Open-source, scalable RTOS for resource-constrained embedded devices.
- • Supports over 900 boards and multiple architectures (32-bit and 64-bit).
Particle
An integrated IoT Platform-as-a-Service for intelligent devices, from hardware to cloud.
Best for you if:
- • Integrated IoT platform for building, connecting, and managing intelligent devices.
- • Provides edge infrastructure, reliable multi-radio connectivity, and cloud services.
| At a Glance |  Zephyr Project |  Particle |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | IoT Platforms | IoT Platforms |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Zephyr Project | Particle |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IoT PlatformsEdge Computing | IoT PlatformsEdge Computing |
How Zephyr Project and Particle Compare
Zephyr Project
Build secure, connected, and future-proof devices with a proven RTOS ecosystem.
Free
Particle
An integrated IoT Platform-as-a-Service for intelligent devices, from hardware to cloud.
Free tier available
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Zephyr Project is free. Particle is freemium.
Go with: Zephyr Project
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: Zephyr Project
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Zephyr Project
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Zephyr Project is free. Particle is freemium. Go with Zephyr Project if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are iot platforms tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Zephyr Project
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Particle
The Bottom Line
Zephyr Project is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zephyr Project or Particle better?
Zephyr Project scores high/100 in our evaluation. Zephyr Project is free and Particle is freemium.
What are Zephyr Project and Particle used for?
Zephyr Project: Build secure, connected, and future-proof devices with a proven RTOS ecosystem.. Particle: An integrated IoT Platform-as-a-Service for intelligent devices, from hardware to cloud..
What does Zephyr Project cost vs Particle?
Zephyr Project is completely free. Particle is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.