Which is cheaper, MongoDB Atlas or PlanetScale Vitess?

MongoDB Atlas is 4.3x cheaper than PlanetScale Vitess. MongoDB Atlas starts at $0/mo, PlanetScale Vitess starts at $39/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 Vitess has moderate switching cost. PlanetScale Vitess is easier to switch away from.

Database

MongoDB Atlas

← More affordable

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

Switching Cost: significant

MySQL-compatible distributed database with horizontal sharding via Vitess

Switching Cost: moderate

You're paying a premium for PlanetScale Vitess — expect around a 4.3x higher bill compared to MongoDB Atlas.

The free tier advantage goes to MongoDB Atlas, which offers a no-cost entry point that PlanetScale Vitess lacks.

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

Price-conscious teams should choose MongoDB Atlas — the cost advantage is hard to ignore, especially for growing workloads.

Price-conscious teams should choose MongoDB Atlas — the cost advantage is hard to ignore, especially for growing workloads.

Price Difference

4.3x

MongoDB Atlas is cheaper by $30/mo

Free Tier

MongoDB Atlas

Has a free tier option

Pricing Model

Different

Tools charge using different pricing philosophies

Switching Costs

PlanetScale Vitess

Lower switching costs for easier migration