Apache Kafka is a platform that helps different parts of your business talk to each other using streams of data. Imagine it as a super-fast, reliable, and scalable messaging system. It can handle massive amounts of information and makes sure nothing gets lost. Many large companies in various industries use Kafka for important tasks, from processing financial transactions to powering real-time analytics. It's known for its reliability and ability to scale as your business grows.
Who is Apache Kafka best for
Apache Kafka excels at real-time data streaming and processing for large enterprises, especially in finance, tech, and retail. Its distributed architecture ensures high throughput and low latency, as praised by users. However, some find the setup complex. Kafka's scalability and reliability make it suitable for mission-critical applications.
Best fit for large enterprises needing real-time data streaming.
Ideal for finance, tech, and retail sectors requiring mission-critical data processing.
Apache Kafka features
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Kafka is designed for real-time data streaming and ingestion.
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Kafka integrates with various tools and platforms using Kafka Connect and other integration tools.
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Kafka supports multiple languages via official and community-provided client libraries.
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Kafka offers immutable data storage via its commit log, which can only be appended to.
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Kafka is designed for high availability and scaling, using replication and clustering.
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Kafka is designed for high-volume scalability and efficiency, reducing costs by distributing data and scaling horizontally.
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Kafka supports real-time processing, suitable for banking transactions and reporting.
Qualities
We evaluate the sentiment that users express about non-functional aspects of the
software
Ease of Use
Strongly positive
+1
Reliability and Performance
Strongly positive
+1
Ease of Implementation
Neutral
+0.2
Scalability
Strongly positive
+0.71
Apache Kafka reviews
We've summarised 120 Apache Kafka reviews (Apache Kafka G2 reviews) and
summarised the main points below.
Pros of Apache Kafka
High throughput and low latency.
Horizontally scalable due to partitioning.
Distributed architecture.
Reliable and fault-tolerant.
Easy integration with Java applications.
Large and active community.
Open-source and cost-effective.
Supports multiple languages and frameworks.
Cons of Apache Kafka
Steep learning curve for new users.
Limited Python support.
Complex setup and configuration.
Resource intensive, especially memory consumption.
Lacks built-in security features.
Message ordering not guaranteed across partitions.
Monitoring tools can be improved.
Apache Kafka alternatives
MuleSoft Anypoint Platform
Better for users who need a simpler interface and robust security features. It has broader industry applicability but less focus on real-time data streaming. A steeper learning curve and higher licensing costs may be drawbacks for some users. It is growing faster than Apache Kafka.
Better for users seeking simpler Kafka management. Specifically designed for large enterprises needing an easier way to handle real-time data streams with Kafka. Has more momentum than Apache Kafka.
Better for users comfortable with visual interfaces for building data pipelines. More suitable for organizations focused on hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Has faster website traffic and employee growth, indicating more momentum. Users praise the drag-and-drop interface and customer support. However, users note some limitations in connector options and debugging complexity. Pricing sentiment is negative.
Better for business intelligence and data visualization. Easier to use, particularly for non-technical users. A strong Looker alternative for those already invested in the Google Cloud ecosystem. More suitable for data analysis and reporting.
Better for data management within Kafka, offering a centralized platform for monitoring, analysis, security, and deployment. Geared towards larger organizations with more developers. Has slightly better ratings and is growing faster.
Better for automating tasks and workflows across cloud and on-premises applications, especially for mid-sized companies. It offers a user-friendly, no-code interface with pre-built connectors, simplifying integration. It is growing faster and has more momentum. A good fit for Finance, E-commerce, Consumer Goods, Transportation & Logistics, Media & Entertainment, Software/IT, Marketing & Advertising, Professional Services and Automotive industries.
What is Apache Kafka and what does Apache Kafka do?
What is Apache Kafka and what does Apache Kafka do?
Apache Kafka is a distributed streaming platform designed for high-throughput, fault-tolerant data pipelines. It handles real-time data feeds and enables seamless integration across diverse applications, making it ideal for large enterprises with demanding data streaming needs. Kafka's scalability and reliability ensure efficient data processing for mission-critical operations.
How does Apache Kafka integrate with other tools?
How does Apache Kafka integrate with other tools?
Apache Kafka integrates with various tools and platforms using Kafka Connect and other integration tools. It also offers client libraries for multiple languages, enabling seamless connectivity with diverse systems.
What the main competitors of Apache Kafka?
What the main competitors of Apache Kafka?
Apache Kafka's main competitors include MuleSoft Anypoint Platform, Axual, StreamSets, Azure Logic Apps, and Ably Realtime. These alternatives offer similar data streaming and integration capabilities, often with a focus on user-friendly interfaces or specific industry needs.
Is Apache Kafka legit?
Is Apache Kafka legit?
Yes, Apache Kafka is a legitimate and widely used open-source platform. Known for its reliability and scalability in handling real-time data streams, Kafka is safe and trusted by numerous large enterprises for mission-critical applications.
How much does Apache Kafka cost?
How much does Apache Kafka cost?
Apache Kafka is an open-source platform, so the software itself is free. However, deploying and managing Kafka often involves costs for infrastructure, support, and related services. Is Kafka worth it? That depends on your specific project needs and budget.
Is Apache Kafka customer service good?
Is Apache Kafka customer service good?
Customer reviews on Apache Kafka's customer service are mixed. Some users express frustration with the lack of strong community support, having to rely on themselves to resolve issues. Others praise the excellent community support and ease of use.
Reviewed by
MK
Michal Kaczor
CEO at Gralio
Michal has worked at startups for many years and writes about topics relating to software selection and IT
management. As a former consultant for Bain, a business advisory company, he also knows how to understand needs
of any business and find solutions to its problems.
TT
Tymon Terlikiewicz
CTO at Gralio
Tymon is a seasoned CTO who loves finding the perfect tools for any task. He recently headed up the tech
department at Batmaid, a well-known Swiss company, where he managed about 60 software purchases, including CX,
HR, Payroll, Marketing automation and various developer tools.