Explore the Top 5 dbt Alternatives for Data Transformation

In the world of data management, dbt is like a reliable car. While it gets you where you need to go, you might need something more powerful if you are treading rougher terrains. dbt (Data Build Tool) has been a trusted companion for many businesses, transforming data in warehouses with precision and efficiency. However, some companies require more extensive capabilities. Whether you're expanding to more complex data flows, need smoother integrations, or require a feature set beyond basic transformations, you can consider exploring alternatives.

For those seeking a solution that can handle rougher terrain, we have listed 5 good alternatives to dbt in this blog. And guess what, you don’t have to compromise on ease of use. 5X is one such alternative that not only matches dbt's transformation capabilities but also adds additional power, making it easier to manage the full data lifecycle.

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What is dbt?

dbt (Data Build Tool) is an open-source data transformation tool designed to help data engineers and analysts model their data in the warehouse more efficiently. It’s known for its simplicity and its ability to transform data using SQL. However, dbt is a toolset, not a fully managed service. This often urges businesses to seek alternatives that provide more out-of-the-box features and customization.

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dbt Core

dbt Core is the free and open-source version of the tool, allowing teams to define models using SQL, version control them, and execute transformation logic in their existing data warehouses. It's powerful for small teams who want to handle their transformation processes without additional costs.

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Pros:

• Free and open-source
• Enables transformations directly in SQL
• Version control for models

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Cons:

• Limited functionality compared to more robust platforms
• Requires manual handling of orchestration and scheduling

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dbt Cloud

dbt Cloud builds on Core with a managed, user-friendly interface. It adds features like scheduling, collaborative tools, and integrations. It's ideal for teams looking for operational simplicity without infrastructure overhead.

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Pros:

• Easy to set up and manage
• Built-in scheduling and orchestration
• Enhanced collaboration features

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Cons:

• Paid tier, with costs that can scale as usage grows
• Still focused primarily on transformations, requiring other tools for broader data management

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dbt Bottom Line

While dbt provides strong transformation capabilities, organizations with complex data orchestration needs, cross-functional collaboration, or additional integrations might find it restrictive. It handles the transformation layer well but lacks in areas like orchestration, scalability, and end-to-end data lifecycle management.

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5 Alternatives to dbt 

Exploring alternatives to dbt can help you find a solution that better fits your organization's data needs. Here's a breakdown of 5 top alternatives, including 5X, which stands out for its comprehensive approach.

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#1 5X

5X is more than a data transformation tool, it's a complete data platform that provides orchestration, scalability, and ease of use. It aligns closely with dbt’s transformation capabilities but offers extended support for the entire data lifecycle.

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‍Pros:

• All-in-one platform for modeling, orchestration, and visualization
• Advanced orchestration capabilities, managing multi-functional workflows
• Integration-ready, making it easy to connect with other data tools

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Cons:

• Potential learning curve for those transitioning from a simpler transformation tool
• Features may be more than what a team focused solely on basic transformations requires

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G2 Rating: 4.5/5

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Cost: Pay as-you-go, no upfront costs

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Also read: Data modeling tools

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#2 Dataform

Similar to dbt, Dataform provides SQL-based data transformations but with a more collaborative and intuitive approach. It offers a modern interface and smooth data model management, making it an attractive alternative.

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Pros:

• SQL-based transformations, familiar to dbt users
• Intuitive UI for managing data models
• Enhanced collaboration features for data teams

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Cons:

• Limited orchestration capabilities compared to more comprehensive platforms
• Focuses primarily on data transformations, not broader data management

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G2 Rating: No G2 Rating yet

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Cost: Dataform is a free service. However, there may be associated costs with using the product.

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#3 SQLMesh

SQLMesh is a version-controlled, transparent SQL transformation tool that emphasizes reliability. It aligns closely with dbt’s core principles but also focuses on ensuring your transformation workflows are always stable and replicable.

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Pros:

• Strong version control for SQL transformations
• Transparency in transformation processes
• Ideal for maintaining stable data pipelines

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Cons:

• Still maturing in terms of features and capabilities
• Less comprehensive compared to tools with broader data management features

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G2 Rating: No ratingsyet 

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Cost: Open source and free to use 

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#4 Matillion

Matillion is a cloud-native ETL tool that focuses on efficient data transformations and integrations with various data sources. It aims to be an all-in-one solution for data teams looking to move beyond just transformations.

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Pros:

• Cloud-native with support for various warehouses
• Strong ETL capabilities, not just transformations
• Easy to integrate with other data tools

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Cons:

• Pricing can be high depending on usage and team size
• Requires setup and configuration to match dbt's modularity

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G2 Rating: 4.4/5

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Cost: Basic starts at $2 per credit and advanced starts at $2.20 per credit.

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#5 Datacoves

Datacoves enhances the dbt experience by providing a fully managed platform focused on collaborative data modeling. It simplifies the transformation process by offering tools for team collaboration and project organization. Datacoves is specifically a seamless alternative to dbt Cloud. Datacoves manages dbt Core so you can transform, test, and document your data with an integrated process. We manage dbt versions and upgrades, orchestration with Airflow, and hosting of dbt-docs at no additional cost for viewers.

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Pros:

• Built with dbt's workflow in mind
• Enhanced collaboration and project organization features
• Simplifies the dbt experience for larger teams

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Cons:

• Limited in scope beyond dbt-like transformations
• Might be better as an enhancement rather than a standalone alternative

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G2 Rating: 4.7/5 (Based on 12 ratings)

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Cost: Customized, scalable pricing. Can be requested here.

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dbt remains to be a popular and a reliable “car” choice for data transformations. However, it is also important to consider whether its capabilities align with your growing data needs. If you are seeking something more comprehensive, alternatives like 5X offer a powerful suite. 5X can simplify orchestration, transformation, and integration, giving you a true end-to-end solution. Evaluate each tool's pros and cons to find the right fit for your data management journey.

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