CockroachDB vs PostgreSQL
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Distributed SQL that scales.
The world's most advanced open-source database.
The verdict
Both CockroachDB and PostgreSQL are credible databases tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
CockroachDB — Distributed SQL that scales.
Choose PostgreSQL if you'd rather have a higher overall rating (4.8/5). The world's most advanced open-source database.
CockroachDB vs PostgreSQL: side by side
| Dimension | CockroachDB | PostgreSQL |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Freemium | Open source |
| Best for | Enterprise, Global Apps | Developers, Everyone |
| Platforms | Web, Api, Self Hosted | Self Hosted, Linux, Windows, Mac |
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.8/5Winner |
CockroachDB key facts
- Vendor
- Cockroach Labs
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Api, Self Hosted
- Best for
- Enterprise, Global Apps
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 2015
- Headquarters
- New York, NY, USA
PostgreSQL key facts
- Vendor
- PostgreSQL Global Dev Group
- Pricing
- Open source — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Self Hosted, Linux, Windows, Mac
- Best for
- Developers, Everyone
- Editor rating
- 4.8 / 5
- Founded
- 1996
- Headquarters
- Open source
Frequently asked questions
Is CockroachDB better than PostgreSQL?
Neither is universally better — PostgreSQL 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 CockroachDB or PostgreSQL cheaper?
CockroachDB is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free. CockroachDB starts at free; PostgreSQL starts at free.
Can CockroachDB replace PostgreSQL?
Yes for most teams — both are databases tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.