Agent Framework

LangGraph vs LlamaIndex: Which is Better in 2026?

Choosing between LangGraph and LlamaIndex? 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 LangGraph and LlamaIndex are strong agent framework choices. The right pick comes down to your specific feature needs, existing stack, and team preferences.

LangGraph vs LlamaIndex — Side by Side

LangGraphLlamaIndex
CategoryAgent FrameworkAgent Framework
PricingFreeFree
Starting priceFree tier availableFree tier available
Free tier
Best forAgent Framework — ai, llmAgent Framework — ai, llm

Pros & Cons

LangGraph
LangGraph
  • Fine-grained agent control
  • Great for complex multi-step flows
  • Open-source
  • Integrates with LangChain & LangSmith
  • Steeper learning curve
  • Newer than core LangChain
LlamaIndex
LlamaIndex
  • Excellent RAG tooling
  • Strong document parsing (LlamaParse)
  • Open-source
  • Many data connectors
  • Overlaps with LangChain (choose one)
  • Cloud features usage-priced

Choose LangGraph if…

you want a free tier to start, and LangGraph Open-source library for building stateful, multi-step agent workflows as graphs — with a managed platform option.

LangGraph review & pricing

Choose LlamaIndex if…

you want a free tier to start, and LlamaIndex Open-source data framework for RAG and agents — connect LLMs to your data, with LlamaCloud for managed pipelines.

LlamaIndex review & pricing

Frequently Asked Questions

Is LangGraph better than LlamaIndex?⌄

Both LangGraph and LlamaIndex 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 LangGraph and LlamaIndex?⌄

LangGraph — Open-source library for building stateful, multi-step agent workflows as graphs — with a managed platform option. LlamaIndex — Open-source data framework for RAG and agents — connect LLMs to your data, with LlamaCloud for managed pipelines. Both are agent framework tools; the comparison table above breaks down pricing, free tiers, and what each is best for.

LangGraph vs LlamaIndex: which is cheaper?⌄

LangGraph pricing: Free. LlamaIndex 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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