CrewAI vs Mastra: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between CrewAI and Mastra? Both are popular agent framework tools. Below we compare them on pricing, free tiers, features, and pros & cons so you can pick the right fit for your stack.
Quick verdict
Both CrewAI and Mastra are strong agent framework choices. The right pick comes down to your specific feature needs, existing stack, and team preferences.
CrewAI vs Mastra — Side by Side
| CrewAI | Mastra | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Agent Framework | Agent Framework |
| Pricing | Free | Free |
| Starting price | Free tier available | Free tier available |
| Free tier | ||
| Best for | Agent Framework — ai, llm | Agent Framework — ai, llm |
Pros & Cons
- Intuitive multi-agent model
- Fast to prototype crews
- Open-source
- Growing community
- Younger ecosystem
- Less low-level control than LangGraph
- Best-in-class for TypeScript teams
- Batteries-included (agents, workflows, memory, evals)
- From the experienced Gatsby team
- Strong observability & MCP support
- Younger than Python frameworks
- TypeScript-only ecosystem
Choose CrewAI if…
you want a free tier to start, and CrewAI Open-source framework for orchestrating role-playing, collaborating multi-agent 'crews' to automate workflows.
CrewAI review & pricingChoose Mastra if…
you want a free tier to start, and Mastra Open-source TypeScript agent framework from the Gatsby team — agents, workflows, memory, and observability in one modern stack.
Mastra review & pricingFrequently Asked Questions
Is CrewAI better than Mastra?⌄
Both CrewAI and Mastra are strong agent framework choices. The right pick comes down to your specific feature needs, existing stack, and team preferences.
What is the difference between CrewAI and Mastra?⌄
CrewAI — Open-source framework for orchestrating role-playing, collaborating multi-agent 'crews' to automate workflows. Mastra — Open-source TypeScript agent framework from the Gatsby team — agents, workflows, memory, and observability in one modern stack. Both are agent framework tools; the comparison table above breaks down pricing, free tiers, and what each is best for.
CrewAI vs Mastra: which is cheaper?⌄
CrewAI pricing: Free. Mastra pricing: Free. Confirm current pricing on each tool's official site, as plans change.
See more options in our guide to the best agent framework tools for startups.
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