Side by side
ctop vs Netdata
Both stand on container monitoring. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1
ctop provides a focused container view with practical navigation, filtering, and inspection controls. Its built-in integrations are limited to Docker and runC, with specific privilege and connection requirements.
Visit ctop Free plan Open source AndroidAPIiPhone+5
Netdata combines infrastructure metrics, logs, alerts, and troubleshooting across cloud and on-premises deployment options. The free plan has node and dashboard limits; Business is listed at $4.50 per month billed annually.
Visit NetdataThe facts
| ctop | Netdata | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | Android, API, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Business: $4.50 per node a month |
| Plans published | 1 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | ctop.sh | netdata.cloud |
| On container monitoring | #8 of 49 | #4 of 49 |
ctop: what it does well
- Real-time metrics for multiple containers
- Docker and runC connectors included
- Container logs and shell access
- Configurable filters, sorting, and columns
- Linux, macOS, Windows, and Docker installation
What to know first
- Other connectors were only planned
- runC requires full state-directory privileges
- MIT license provides software without warranty
- Docker defaults to a Unix socket
Netdata: what it does well
- Per-second metrics and machine-learning anomaly detection.
- Lists more than 800 collectors and notification channels.
- Supports managed cloud and on-premises deployments.
- Metrics remain on the user's infrastructure, according to Netdata.
- Native mobile apps provide alerts and notifications.
What to know first
- Free Community plan is limited to five active nodes.
- Free plan allows one active custom dashboard per room.
- Business costs $4.50/month billed annually.
- Community support is listed; premium support is available.