XTDB review
A strong open-source choice for teams that need queryable database history.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
XTDB is an open-source, JVM-based relational database for applications that need immutable and auditable data history. It suits teams building systems where records must remain queryable across past states, including temporal applications, compliance workflows, and analytical systems. Automatic system-time versioning covers inserts, updates, and deletes, while support for semi-structured documents allows relational and flexible-schema data to coexist.
Its strongest capability is temporal access. XTDB supports bitemporal queries using both system time and valid time, along with point-in-time queries and repeatable database bases. SQL and XTQL provide query interfaces, while PostgreSQL wire compatibility helps it fit with PostgreSQL-compatible tools and drivers. Apache Arrow, Flight SQL, ADBC, Docker, Amazon S3, Apache Kafka, and Azure Blob Storage extend its connectivity and deployment options. Local and remote object storage are both supported, giving teams room to align storage with their operating model.
XTDB itself is free and open source. The Partner Pack is listed at $0 per year and includes community support, a private Zulip stream, early release access, a feedback channel, and a partner network. Developer Edition adds official support, a private issue tracker, upgrade guidance, and a UK business-hours response SLA. Production Support adds private release channels, rapid hotfix service, core team consultations, and a 24/7 SLA. Choose XTDB when temporal history is central to the application and the team can manage a database deployment. Teams seeking a hosted SaaS database or a conventional database without versioned-history requirements should consider a different fit.
XTDB pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Automatic versioning for inserts, updates, and deletes
- Bitemporal queries across system time and valid time
- PostgreSQL compatibility plus flexible storage options
- Where it doesn't
- Self-hosted deployment may require infrastructure ownership
- The product is JVM-based
- No built-in AI features
XTDB fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update