LlamaIndex vs Mastra: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between LlamaIndex 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 LlamaIndex and Mastra are strong agent framework choices. The right pick comes down to your specific feature needs, existing stack, and team preferences.
LlamaIndex vs Mastra — Side by Side
| LlamaIndex | 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
- Excellent RAG tooling
- Strong document parsing (LlamaParse)
- Open-source
- Many data connectors
- Overlaps with LangChain (choose one)
- Cloud features usage-priced
- 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 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 & 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 LlamaIndex better than Mastra?⌄
Both LlamaIndex 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 LlamaIndex and Mastra?⌄
LlamaIndex — Open-source data framework for RAG and agents — connect LLMs to your data, with LlamaCloud for managed pipelines. 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.
LlamaIndex vs Mastra: which is cheaper?⌄
LlamaIndex 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.
Still not sure which to pick?
Get a free, AI-powered tech stack — including the best agent framework pick for your budget and team — in 60 seconds.
Build my stack free