Modal vs VAST Data
Which Developer Tools AI tool is better in 2026?
Modal
High-performance AI infrastructure with sub-second cold starts and instant autoscaling.
VAST Data
Unifying software layer for AI infrastructure
Side-by-side
VAST Data is the more established option (raised $2.4B), but Modal is cheaper to start.
| Metric | Modal | VAST Data |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | High-performance AI infrastructure with sub-second cold starts and instant autoscaling. | Unifying software layer for AI infrastructure |
| Foundedi | 2021 | 2016🏆 |
| HQi | New York, US | US |
| Employeesi | 51-200🏆 | 201-500 |
| Neuron scorei | 59 | 88🏆 |
| Total fundingi | $442M | $2.4B🏆 |
| Latest roundi | Series C · May 2026 | Series F · Apr 2026 |
| Valuationi | $4.7B | $30B🏆 |
| Cheapest paid plani | Pricing not disclosed🏆 | — |
| Free plani | ✗ | ✗ |
| Free triali | ✗ | ✗ |
| Top tier pricei | Pricing not disclosed | Enterprise · Contact sales |
| Pricing summaryi | Freemium | 1 published plans |
| Categoriesi |
Capability matrix
Developer-facing capabilities and access signals for Modal and VAST Data.
| Capability | Modal | VAST Data |
|---|---|---|
| MCP support | ✗ | ✓ |
| Public API | ✗ | ✓ |
| Webhooks | ✗ | ✗ |
| OAuth 2.0 | ✗ | ✗ |
| SDK languages | 3 (Python, JavaScript, Go) | — |
| Free plan | ✗ | ✗ |
| Free trial | ✗ | ✗ |
| Verified | ✗ | ✗ |
| Active deal | ✗ | ✗ |
🟢 Strengths of Modal
- Newer company (2021)
🔵 Strengths of VAST Data
- Has raised more capital ($2.4B vs $442M)
- Higher Neuron score (88 vs 59)
- More mature (2016)
Which should you choose?
Choose Modal if price matters most — it starts at Freemium, 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
Modal vs VAST Data — which is better?
It depends on your priority. Modal is the leaner option; VAST Data has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Modal cheaper than VAST Data?
Yes — Modal's cheapest paid plan is Freemium, while VAST Data's is Enterprise · Contact sales.
Do Modal and VAST Data offer free plans?
Modal: Paid only. VAST Data: Paid only.
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