Ollama vs VAST Data
Which Infrastructure AI tool is better in 2026?
Ollama
The easiest way to run open LLMs locally and in the cloud
VAST Data
Unifying software layer for AI infrastructure
Side-by-side
VAST Data is the more established option (raised $2.4B), but Ollama is cheaper to start.
| Metric | Ollama | VAST Data |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | The easiest way to run open LLMs locally and in the cloud | Unifying software layer for AI infrastructure |
| Foundedi | 2023 | 2016🏆 |
| HQi | Palo Alto, United States | US |
| Employeesi | 20 | 201-500🏆 |
| Neuron scorei | 64 | 88🏆 |
| Total fundingi | Undisclosed | $2.4B🏆 |
| Latest roundi | seed | Series F · Apr 2026 |
| Valuationi | — | $30B🏆 |
| Cheapest paid plani | From $20/mo🏆 | — |
| Free plani | ✓ | ✗ |
| Free triali | ✓ | ✗ |
| Top tier pricei | Pricing not disclosed | Enterprise · Contact sales |
| Pricing summaryi | Free · From $20/mo | 1 published plans |
| Categoriesi |
Capability matrix
Developer-facing capabilities and access signals for Ollama and VAST Data.
| Capability | Ollama | VAST Data |
|---|---|---|
| MCP support | ✗ | ✓ |
| Public API | ✓ | ✓ |
| Webhooks | ✗ | ✗ |
| OAuth 2.0 | ✗ | ✗ |
| SDK languages | 3 (Python, JavaScript, REST API) | — |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✗ |
| Free trial | ✓ | ✗ |
| Verified | ✗ | ✗ |
| Active deal | ✗ | ✗ |
🟢 Strengths of Ollama
- Offers a free plan
- Offers a free trial
- Lower starting price ($20/mo)
- Newer company (2023)
🔵 Strengths of VAST Data
- Has raised more capital ($2.4B vs Undisclosed)
- Higher Neuron score (88 vs 64)
- More mature (2016)
Which should you choose?
Choose Ollama if price matters most — it starts at Free · From $20/mo, which is friendlier for teams watching burn. Both AI Infrastructure 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
Ollama vs VAST Data — which is better?
It depends on your priority. Ollama is the leaner option; VAST Data has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Ollama cheaper than VAST Data?
Yes — Ollama's cheapest paid plan is Free · From $20/mo, while VAST Data's is Enterprise · Contact sales.
Do Ollama and VAST Data offer free plans?
Ollama: Yes, has a free plan. VAST Data: Paid only.
Explore more AI Infrastructure tools
Contextual paths to related AI startups, deals and rankings.