InfluxDB vs Prometheus

The time series database that actually makes sense for your metrics, not just another SQL wannabe meets the time-series king for monitoring, if you don't mind writing queries that look like alien hieroglyphics. Here's our take.

InfluxDB

The time series database that actually makes sense for your metrics, not just another SQL wannabe.

Pros

• Optimized for high-throughput writes and fast queries on timestamped data
• Built-in support for downsampling and retention policies to manage data lifecycle
• Flux language allows for powerful, flexible data transformations and aggregations

Cons

• Flux has a steep learning curve compared to traditional SQL
• Limited support for complex joins and relational data structures

Prometheus

Nice Pick

The time-series king for monitoring, if you don't mind writing queries that look like alien hieroglyphics.

Pros

• Powerful multi-dimensional data model with labels for flexible metric organization
• PromQL query language allows for complex, real-time data analysis and alerting
• Open-source and integrates seamlessly with Kubernetes and other cloud-native tools

Cons

• Long-term storage is a pain, often requiring external solutions like Thanos or Cortex
• Steep learning curve for PromQL, making it tricky for beginners to master

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. InfluxDB is a databases while Prometheus is a devtools. We picked Prometheus based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Prometheus wins

Based on overall popularity. Prometheus is more widely used, but InfluxDB excels in its own space.