Side by side
Buildbarn vs NativeLink
Both stand on build cache software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APILinuxSelf-hosted
Choose Buildbarn if you need an open-source remote execution system with separate scheduler, worker, and runner components, and can operate the deployment. Consider the runner’s userland requirement and possible glibc mismatches when planning build environments.
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Free plan LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1
NativeLink combines caching and remote execution for teams working with its supported build systems. Its free self-hosted plan is available, but check server compatibility and licensing limits for metrics and persistent workers before choosing it.
Visit NativeLinkThe facts
| Buildbarn | NativeLink | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Linux, Self-hosted | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Not published | Free or on request |
| Plans published | None | 3 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | github.com | nativelink.com |
| On build cache software | #7 of 23 | #11 of 23 |
Buildbarn: what it does well
- Free and open source under Apache-2.0.
- Supports multiple build systems, including Bazel, Buck2, and Pants.
- Offers Docker Compose and Kubernetes deployment examples.
- Custom runners can communicate with the worker over gRPC.
- Storage daemon supports Prometheus metrics and pprof diagnostics.
What to know first
- Remote execution requires Buildbarn’s storage daemon as well.
- The bare runner image has no userland or Linux installation.
- Remote builds can encounter glibc version mismatches.
NativeLink: what it does well
- Free Open Source plan with community Slack support.
- Supports multiple build systems, including Bazel and CMake via recc.
- Execution workers can use GPUs, ARM, and Apple Silicon.
- Lists integrations with four CI platforms.
- Security page states SOC 2 and ISO 27001 are complete.
What to know first
- Servers support Linux and macOS, not Windows.
- Some modules require Enterprise or a separate production-use license.
- Enterprise plans cost 180000.00 USD or $360,000 a year.
Alternatives to Buildbarn Alternatives to NativeLink The whole list