Preferred Networks vs SambaNova
Which Infrastructure AI tool is better in 2026?
Preferred Networks
Preferred Networks develops and provides all four layers of the AI technology value chain: AI semiconductors, computing infrastructure, generative AI foundation models, and AI products/solutions.
SambaNova
The fastest AI inference platform, purpose-built for agentic AI with custom dataflow technology and three-tier memory architecture.
Side-by-side
SambaNova is the more established option (raised $1.5B); pricing is comparable on both sides.
| Metric | Preferred Networks | SambaNova |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | Preferred Networks develops and provides all four layers of the AI technology value chain: AI semiconductors, computing infrastructure, generative AI foundation models, and AI products/solutions. | The fastest AI inference platform, purpose-built for agentic AI with custom dataflow technology and three-tier memory architecture. |
| Foundedi | — | — |
| HQi | Tokyo, JP | US |
| Employeesi | 201-500 | 201-500 |
| Neuron scorei | 70 | 82🏆 |
| Total fundingi | $160M | $1.5B🏆 |
| Latest roundi | Corporate · Dec 2017 | Series E · Feb 2026 |
| Valuationi | — | $2.2B🏆 |
| Cheapest paid plani | Pricing not disclosed | Pricing not disclosed |
| Free plani | ✗ | ✗ |
| Free triali | ✗ | ✗ |
| Top tier pricei | Pricing not disclosed | Pricing not disclosed |
| Pricing summaryi | Enterprise · Contact sales | Enterprise · Contact sales |
| Categoriesi |
Capability matrix
Developer-facing capabilities and access signals for Preferred Networks and SambaNova.
| Capability | Preferred Networks | SambaNova |
|---|---|---|
| MCP support | ✗ | ✗ |
| Public API | ✗ | ✓ |
| Webhooks | ✗ | ✗ |
| OAuth 2.0 | ✗ | ✗ |
| SDK languages | — | — |
| Free plan | ✗ | ✗ |
| Free trial | ✗ | ✗ |
| Verified | ✗ | ✗ |
| Active deal | ✗ | ✗ |
🟢 Strengths of Preferred Networks
- Strong in AI Infrastructure
🔵 Strengths of SambaNova
- Has raised more capital ($1.5B vs $160M)
- Higher Neuron score (82 vs 70)
Which should you choose?
Choose SambaNova if price matters most — it starts at Enterprise · Contact sales, 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 SambaNova if you want the most established option — it has raised $1.5B, 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
Preferred Networks vs SambaNova — which is better?
It depends on your priority. Preferred Networks is the leaner option; SambaNova has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Preferred Networks cheaper than SambaNova?
No — SambaNova's cheapest paid plan is Enterprise · Contact sales, while Preferred Networks's is Enterprise · Contact sales.
Do Preferred Networks and SambaNova offer free plans?
Preferred Networks: Paid only. SambaNova: Paid only.
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