Which is cheaper, MongoDB Atlas or PlanetScale?

PlanetScale is 1.8x cheaper than MongoDB Atlas. MongoDB Atlas starts at $0/mo, PlanetScale starts at $5/mo.

Does MongoDB Atlas have a free tier?

Yes, MongoDB Atlas offers a free tier with storageMB: 512.

MongoDB Atlas has significant switching cost. PlanetScale has moderate switching cost. PlanetScale is easier to switch away from.

Database

MongoDB Atlas

Fully managed cloud database service for MongoDB with automated scaling, backups, and multi-cloud deployment

Switching Cost: significant

PlanetScale

← More affordable

Managed MySQL-compatible and Postgres database platform with horizontal sharding via Vitess

Switching Cost: moderate

The pricing gap between PlanetScale and MongoDB Atlas runs about 1.8x — significant consideration for scaling.

Startups take note: MongoDB Atlas provides a free tier, while PlanetScale requires payment from day one.

For early-stage teams or experimental projects, MongoDB Atlas's free tier provides valuable runway without commitment.

For early-stage teams or experimental projects, MongoDB Atlas's free tier provides valuable runway without commitment.

Price Difference

1.8x

PlanetScale is cheaper by $4/mo

Free Tier

MongoDB Atlas

Has a free tier option

Switching Costs

PlanetScale

Lower switching costs for easier migration