Lightmatter vs VAST Data
Which Developer Tools AI tool is better in 2026?
Lightmatter
Photonic chips that move data with light for next-gen AI data centers
VAST Data
Unifying software layer for AI infrastructure
Side-by-side
VAST Data is the more established option (raised $2.4B), but Lightmatter is cheaper to start.
| Metric | Lightmatter | VAST Data |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | Photonic chips that move data with light for next-gen AI data centers | Unifying software layer for AI infrastructure |
| Foundedi | 2017 | 2016🏆 |
| HQi | Boston, US | US |
| Employeesi | 201-500 | 201-500 |
| Neuron scorei | 64 | 88🏆 |
| Total fundingi | $850M | $2.4B🏆 |
| Latest roundi | Series D · Oct 2024 | Series F · Apr 2026 |
| Valuationi | $4.4B | $30B🏆 |
| Cheapest paid plani | —🏆 | — |
| Free plani | ✗ | ✗ |
| Free triali | ✗ | ✗ |
| Top tier pricei | Enterprise · Contact sales | Enterprise · Contact sales |
| Pricing summaryi | 1 published plans | 1 published plans |
| Categoriesi |
Capability matrix
Developer-facing capabilities and access signals for Lightmatter and VAST Data.
| Capability | Lightmatter | VAST Data |
|---|---|---|
| MCP support | ✗ | ✓ |
| Public API | ✗ | ✓ |
| Webhooks | ✗ | ✗ |
| OAuth 2.0 | ✗ | ✗ |
| SDK languages | — | — |
| Free plan | ✗ | ✗ |
| Free trial | ✗ | ✗ |
| Verified | ✗ | ✗ |
| Active deal | ✗ | ✗ |
🟢 Strengths of Lightmatter
- Newer company (2017)
🔵 Strengths of VAST Data
- Has raised more capital ($2.4B vs $850M)
- Higher Neuron score (88 vs 64)
- More mature (2016)
Which should you choose?
Choose Lightmatter if price matters most — it starts at Enterprise · Contact sales, which is friendlier for teams watching burn. Both AI Developer Tools tools ship core features, so the cost delta often decides it for small teams and solo operators.
Choose VAST Data if you want the most established option — it has raised $2.4B, 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
Lightmatter vs VAST Data — which is better?
It depends on your priority. Lightmatter is the leaner option; VAST Data has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Lightmatter cheaper than VAST Data?
Yes — Lightmatter's cheapest paid plan is Enterprise · Contact sales, while VAST Data's is Enterprise · Contact sales.
Do Lightmatter and VAST Data offer free plans?
Lightmatter: Paid only. VAST Data: Paid only.
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