Retool vs SurrealDB
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both Retool and SurrealDB are credible no code platforms tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Retool — Build internal tools, fast.
SurrealDB — A multi-model database for modern apps.
Retool vs SurrealDB: side by side
| Dimension | Retool | SurrealDB |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free – $10/user/mo | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Best for | Developers, Operations | Developers |
| Platforms | Web, Self Hosted | Self Hosted, Api |
| Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.4/5 |
Retool key facts
- Vendor
- Retool
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $10/user/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Self Hosted
- Best for
- Developers, Operations
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2017
- Headquarters
- San Francisco, CA, USA
SurrealDB key facts
- Vendor
- SurrealDB
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Self Hosted, Api
- Best for
- Developers
- Editor rating
- 4.4 / 5
- Founded
- 2021
- Headquarters
- London, UK
Frequently asked questions
Is Retool better than SurrealDB?
Neither is universally better — Retool 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 Retool or SurrealDB cheaper?
Retool is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $10/user/mo. Retool starts at free – $10/user/mo; SurrealDB starts at free.
Can Retool replace SurrealDB?
Yes for most teams — both are no code platforms tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.