Labelbox vs Scale AI
Which Data Labeling AI tool is better in 2026?
Labelbox
RL data engine and human expertise platform for training frontier AI
Scale AI
Data labeling and AI infrastructure platform powering frontier models for enterprises and governments.
Side-by-side
Scale AI is the more established option (raised $14.3B); pricing is comparable on both sides.
| Metric | Labelbox | Scale AI |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | RL data engine and human expertise platform for training frontier AI | Data labeling and AI infrastructure platform powering frontier models for enterprises and governments. |
| Foundedi | 2018 | 2016🏆 |
| HQi | San Francisco, United States | San Francisco, US |
| Employeesi | 300🏆 | 1000+ |
| Neuron scorei | 75🏆 | 57 |
| Total fundingi | $189M | $14.3B🏆 |
| Latest roundi | series_d · Jan 2022 | Strategic · Jun 2025 |
| Valuationi | — | $29B🏆 |
| Cheapest paid plani | Pricing not disclosed | — |
| Free plani | ✓ | ✗ |
| Free triali | ✓ | ✗ |
| Top tier pricei | Pricing not disclosed | Enterprise / Custom · Contact sales |
| Pricing summaryi | Free | 1 published plans |
| Categoriesi |
Capability matrix
Developer-facing capabilities and access signals for Labelbox and Scale AI.
| Capability | Labelbox | Scale AI |
|---|---|---|
| MCP support | ✗ | ✗ |
| Public API | ✓ | ✓ |
| Webhooks | ✓ | ✓ |
| OAuth 2.0 | ✓ | ✓ |
| SDK languages | 1 (Python) | 1 (Python) |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✗ |
| Free trial | ✓ | ✗ |
| Verified | ✗ | ✓ |
| Active deal | ✗ | ✗ |
🟢 Strengths of Labelbox
- Higher Neuron score (75 vs 57)
- Offers a free plan
- Offers a free trial
- Newer company (2018)
🔵 Strengths of Scale AI
- Has raised more capital ($14.3B vs $189M)
- More mature (2016)
- Verified profile
Which should you choose?
Choose Scale AI if price matters most — it starts at Enterprise · Contact sales, which is friendlier for teams watching burn. Both Data Labeling tools ship core features, so the cost delta often decides it for small teams and solo operators.
Choose Scale AI if you want the most established option — it has raised $14.3B, suggesting more runway for enterprise features, support, and long-term roadmap. For mission-critical workflows or larger teams, that stability often outweighs a lower monthly price.
Frequently asked questions
Labelbox vs Scale AI — which is better?
It depends on your priority. Labelbox is the leaner option; Scale AI has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Labelbox cheaper than Scale AI?
No — Scale AI's cheapest paid plan is Enterprise · Contact sales, while Labelbox's is Free.
Do Labelbox and Scale AI offer free plans?
Labelbox: Yes, has a free plan. Scale AI: Paid only.
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