Databases (Core)

Magda

Federated open-source data catalog for big and small data.

Status
Generally available
Last checked
Checked · Oct 12, 2026
License
Open source
Pricing
Free tier · from $0

What it is

Magda is a federated, open-source data catalog designed to manage both large-scale and smaller datasets efficiently. It provides tools for discovering, managing, and sharing data across different environments.

Magda stands out as a federated, open-source solution for managing diverse datasets across multiple environments, offering flexibility and scalability.

When it fits — and when it doesn’t

A good fit for

  • Organizations needing a federated approach to manage diverse datasets

  • Teams that require open-source solutions with flexible licensing terms

Look elsewhere if

  • Projects requiring real-time data streaming capabilities

  • Small projects where self-hosting is not feasible or preferred

Known weaknesses

Each one links to the public issue, changelog or docs page it came from, where we have one.

  1. 01

    Steep learning curve for non-Scala developers

    Primary language is Scala, which may be unfamiliar and complex to developers more accustomed to other languages like Java or Python.

  2. 02

    Limited community support due to niche focus

    Magda's specific use case in federated data cataloging might result in a smaller user base, leading to fewer community contributions and slower issue resolution times.

  3. 03

    Complex setup and configuration requirements

    Setting up Magda involves configuring multiple services and dependencies, which can be time-consuming and error-prone for new users.

  4. 04

    Performance issues with very large datasets

    While designed to handle both big and small datasets, performance degradation has been reported when managing extremely large or complex data sets.

What it does well

  • Federated data cataloging across multiple environments

  • Support for both big and small datasets

  • Open-source with Apache-2.0 license

Pricing

Free tier
YesOpen source — free to use
Paid from
$0
Model
Flat rate
Enterprise plan
No

Pricing not independently confirmed — check the vendor’s page.

Performance benchmarks

How Fast Is It?

Set up Magda

Setup steps, common gotchas and what to check after 30 days.

Open the setup guide →
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