Redpanda
by Redpanda Data
Kafka-compatible streaming without ZooKeeper or JVM
Reviewed by the Softwares.com Editorial Team · Last updated June 2026 · How we rate
Key facts
- Vendor
- Redpanda Data
- Pricing
- Open source — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Self Hosted, Api
- Best for
- Developers, Data Engineers
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 2019
- Headquarters
- San Francisco, USA
What is Redpanda?
Redpanda is a data pipelines tool from Redpanda Data. A streaming data platform that is Kafka API-compatible but written in C++, removing ZooKeeper and the JVM for lower latency, with a managed Redpanda Cloud.
Redpanda uses open source pricing and offers a free tier you can start on without a credit card. Free.
It's best suited to developers, data engineers and runs on Self Hosted, Api.
Standout strengths include kafka api compatibility, no zookeeper or jvm, lower latency and footprint. Worth weighing: younger ecosystem, enterprise features gated.
Redpanda pricing
Pros
- Kafka API compatibility
- No ZooKeeper or JVM
- Lower latency and footprint
Cons
- Younger ecosystem
- Enterprise features gated
Redpanda vs alternatives
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Frequently asked questions
What is Redpanda?
A streaming data platform that is Kafka API-compatible but written in C++, removing ZooKeeper and the JVM for lower latency, with a managed Redpanda Cloud.
How much does Redpanda cost?
Redpanda is open-source-priced. It has a free tier.
Does Redpanda have a free trial?
Redpanda offers a free tier rather than a time-limited trial.
What platforms does Redpanda support?
Redpanda is available on Self Hosted, Api.