Which is cheaper, MongoDB Atlas or PlanetScale Postgres?

PlanetScale Postgres is 1.8x cheaper than MongoDB Atlas. MongoDB Atlas starts at $0/mo, PlanetScale Postgres 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 Postgres has drop-in switching cost. PlanetScale Postgres 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

← More affordable

Managed PostgreSQL with single-node or HA clustering options

Switching Cost: drop-in

The cost difference is substantial — MongoDB Atlas runs about 1.8x what PlanetScale Postgres charges.

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

Pricing philosophy differs — MongoDB Atlas charges flat-rate, but PlanetScale Postgres takes a usage-based approach.

MongoDB Atlas stands out for teams needing a free tier — zero upfront costs for prototyping and testing is a genuine advantage.

MongoDB Atlas stands out for teams needing a free tier — zero upfront costs for prototyping and testing is a genuine advantage.

Price Difference

1.8x

PlanetScale Postgres is cheaper by $4/mo

Free Tier

MongoDB Atlas

Has a free tier option

Pricing Model

Different

Tools charge using different pricing philosophies

Switching Costs

PlanetScale Postgres

Lower switching costs for easier migration