Agent Framework

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

CrewAIMastra
CategoryAgent FrameworkAgent Framework
PricingFreeFree
Starting priceFree tier availableFree tier available
Free tier
Best forAgent Framework — ai, llmAgent 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 & pricing

Choose 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 & pricing

Frequently 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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