LiteLLM vs Orkes
Which LLM Orchestration AI tool is better in 2026?
LiteLLM
Open-source LLM gateway and Python SDK that lets developers call 100+ model providers using a
Orkes
Durable workflow and AI agent orchestration built on Conductor
Side-by-side
Orkes is the more established option (raised $100M); pricing is comparable on both sides.
| Metric | LiteLLM | Orkes |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | Open-source LLM gateway and Python SDK that lets developers call 100+ model providers using a | Durable workflow and AI agent orchestration built on Conductor |
| Foundedi | 2023 | 2021🏆 |
| HQi | — | Santa Clara, United States |
| Employeesi | 11-50🏆 | — |
| Neuron scorei | 47 | 75🏆 |
| Total fundingi | $1.6M | $100M🏆 |
| Latest roundi | Seed | Series B · Apr 2026 |
| Valuationi | — | — |
| Cheapest paid plani | Pricing not disclosed | Pricing not disclosed |
| Free plani | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free triali | ✓ | ✓ |
| Top tier pricei | Pricing not disclosed | Pricing not disclosed |
| Pricing summaryi | Free | Free |
| Categoriesi |
Capability matrix
Developer-facing capabilities and access signals for LiteLLM and Orkes.
| Capability | LiteLLM | Orkes |
|---|---|---|
| MCP support | ✗ | ✓ |
| Public API | ✗ | ✓ |
| Webhooks | ✗ | ✓ |
| OAuth 2.0 | ✗ | ✓ |
| SDK languages | — | 6 (Java, Python, Go, C#…) |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | ✓ | ✓ |
| Verified | ✗ | ✗ |
| Active deal | ✗ | ✗ |
🟢 Strengths of LiteLLM
- Newer company (2023)
🔵 Strengths of Orkes
- Has raised more capital ($100M vs $1.6M)
- Higher Neuron score (75 vs 47)
- More mature (2021)
Which should you choose?
Choose Orkes if price matters most — it starts at Free, which is friendlier for teams watching burn. Both LLM Orchestration tools ship core features, so the cost delta often decides it for small teams and solo operators.
Choose Orkes if you want the most established option — it has raised $100M, 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
LiteLLM vs Orkes — which is better?
It depends on your priority. LiteLLM is the leaner option; Orkes has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is LiteLLM cheaper than Orkes?
No — Orkes's cheapest paid plan is Free, while LiteLLM's is Free.
Do LiteLLM and Orkes offer free plans?
LiteLLM: Yes, has a free plan. Orkes: Yes, has a free plan.
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