What is the main difference between Apache Airflow and Kestra?

Apache Airflow and Kestra are both workflow orchestration tools but differ in their approach, features, and target audience. Compare their GitHub stats, technology stack, and community adoption to make the best choice.

Which is better: Apache Airflow or Kestra?

The choice between Apache Airflow and Kestra depends on your specific needs, technical requirements, and team preferences. Both are quality open source solutions with active communities.

Can I migrate from Apache Airflow to Kestra?

Migration between Apache Airflow and Kestra is possible but requires careful planning. Consider data export/import capabilities, feature parity, and potential workflow changes.

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Apache Airflow vs Kestra

Learn how Apache Airflow and Kestra differ in their key features, development activity, technology stack and community adoption, so you can decide which of these workflow orchestration tools is best for you.

Apache Airflow

Python-based workflow orchestration platform for scheduling, monitoring, and managing data pipelines at any scale.

Visit Apache Airflow Read more

47,279stars+293(+0.6%)

Last 30 days

Last commit
7 hours ago
Repository age
12 years
Version
3.3.2
License
Apache-2.0
Self-hosted
Yes
Repository
apache/airflow

Kestra

YAML-based orchestration platform with 1400+ plugins for running data pipelines, AI workflows, and infrastructure automation across teams at scale.

Visit Kestra Read more

30,000stars+1,632(+5.8%)

Last 30 days

Last commit
7 hours ago
Repository age
7 years
Version
v2.0.7
License
Apache-2.0
Self-hosted
Yes
Repository
kestra-io/kestra

Detailed Comparison

Both Apache Airflow and Kestra have their unique strengths and serve similar purposes effectively. Consider your specific needs regarding popularity, growth, activity, maturity, licensing and features when making your decision.

Apache Airflow wins

Community & Popularity

Apache Airflow leads in popularity with 47,279 stars vs 30,000 stars for Kestra. The 58% higher star count indicates stronger community adoption. In terms of developer contributions, Apache Airflow has 18,151 forks, indicating strong developer engagement.

Kestra wins

Growth Momentum

Kestra is growing faster, adding 1,632 stars in the last 30 days (+5.8%) against adding 293 stars for Apache Airflow (+0.6%). Kestra is the smaller project of the two, so it is closing the gap rather than extending a lead.

Comparable

Development Activity

Both projects show recent activity, with Apache Airflow last updated 7 hours ago and Kestra 7 hours ago.

Apache Airflow wins

Project Maturity

Apache Airflow has been in development longer, starting 12 years ago, compared to Kestra which began 7 years ago. This 4.4-year head start suggests Apache Airflow may have more mature features and established processes.

Comparable

Licensing

Both projects use the Apache-2.0 license, providing identical terms for usage and distribution.

Comparable

Use Cases & Features

Both tools serve similar use cases in Workflow Orchestration. However, they also have distinct specializations: Kestra extends into ETL & Data Integration.

Comparable