Side by side
Apache Pulsar vs Buf Schema Registry
Both stand on schema registry software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APILinuxMac+2
Apache Pulsar combines messaging, streaming, connectors and serverless processing in a self-hosted platform. Enable and configure its security controls before relying on them, and do not use the 5.0.0-M2 milestone in production.
Visit Apache Pulsar
Free plan APISelf-hostedWeb
BSR combines schema versioning, dependency visibility, generated SDKs, and change governance for Protobuf APIs. Community is free, while paid tiers add capacity and deployment options; Pro has a substantial stated monthly minimum.
Visit Buf Schema RegistryThe facts
| Apache Pulsar | Buf Schema Registry | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | API, Self-hosted, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | See the plans |
| Plans published | 1 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | pulsar.apache.org | buf.build |
| On schema registry software | #2 of 26 | #6 of 26 |
Apache Pulsar: what it does well
- Free, open-source software under Apache License 2.0
- Supports under 10 ms consumption latency
- Replicates across regions with automatic client failover
- Built-in connectors cover several data systems
- Tiered storage supports unlimited retention
What to know first
- Security controls are not enabled by default
- 5.0.0-M2 is not meant for production use
Buf Schema Registry: what it does well
- Publishes versioned Protobuf modules and resolves dependencies.
- Generates SDKs and browsable schema documentation.
- Lint and breaking-change policies can gate updates.
- Free Community plan includes unlimited public repositories.
What to know first
- Community limits private use to one repository and 100 types.
- Pro has a $3,000/month minimum spend.
- Paid plans charge by type per month.
Alternatives to Apache Pulsar Alternatives to Buf Schema Registry The whole list