Apache Superset vs Grafana
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Open-source data exploration and viz.
The verdict
Both Apache Superset and Grafana are credible business intelligence tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Apache Superset — Open-source data exploration and viz.
Grafana — Open-source dashboards and observability.
Apache Superset vs Grafana: side by side
| Dimension | Apache Superset | Grafana |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free | Free – $19/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Open source | Freemium |
| Best for | Data Teams | Devops Teams, Developers |
| Platforms | Self Hosted, Web | Web, Self Hosted, Api |
| Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.6/5 |
Apache Superset key facts
- Vendor
- Apache
- Pricing
- Open source — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Self Hosted, Web
- Best for
- Data Teams
- Editor rating
- 4.4 / 5
- Founded
- 2015
- Headquarters
- Open source
Grafana key facts
- Vendor
- Grafana Labs
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $19/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Self Hosted, Api
- Best for
- Devops Teams, Developers
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2014
- Headquarters
- New York, NY, USA
Frequently asked questions
Is Apache Superset better than Grafana?
Neither is universally better — Grafana edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Apache Superset or Grafana cheaper?
Apache Superset is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free. Apache Superset starts at free; Grafana starts at free – $19/mo.
Can Apache Superset replace Grafana?
Yes for most teams — both are business intelligence tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.