Data Studio vs Metabase: What are the differences?

Introduction: Data Studio and Metabase are two popular tools used for data visualization and analytics. While both aim to provide insights from data, they have significant differences in terms of features, capabilities, and user experience.

1. Data Connectivity: Data Studio offers a wide range of connectors to various data sources, including Google Sheets, BigQuery, and MySQL. It also allows users to create custom connectors. On the other hand, Metabase has fewer built-in connectors compared to Data Studio. However, Metabase provides a more flexible query builder that allows users to write SQL queries to fetch data from any compatible database.

2. Interface and User Experience: Data Studio provides a drag-and-drop interface that allows users to easily create and customize reports and dashboards without the need for coding. It also has a rich library of visualizations and design options. In contrast, Metabase has a simpler interface with a focus on simplicity and ease of use. It provides a limited set of visualizations and customization options but emphasizes quick and easy access to data.

3. Collaboration and Sharing: Data Studio allows users to collaborate and share reports and dashboards with others through a shareable link. Users can also set access permissions to control who can view and edit the content. Metabase, on the other hand, provides a collaborative environment where users can work together on queries and dashboards. It also allows for embedding dashboards in other applications.

4. Advanced Analytics and Data Modeling: Data Studio offers limited advanced analytics capabilities, such as calculated fields, blending data sources, and basic statistical functions. Metabase, on the other hand, provides more advanced analytics features, including native support for complex SQL queries, custom dashboards with filters and parameters, and the ability to create segments and cohorts.

5. Customization and Extensibility: Data Studio allows users to create custom visualizations using Google Charts API and embed them in reports and dashboards. It also supports the use of apps scripts for automation and customization. Metabase, on the other hand, provides a limited scope for customization, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use.

6. Cost and Licensing: Data Studio is free to use for individuals and businesses, with no limitations on data size or number of users. Metabase also offers a free version, but it has limitations on the number of users and data size. It also provides a paid version with additional features and support.

In summary, Data Studio provides a wider range of data connectors, a more advanced interface for creating reports and dashboards, and better collaboration and sharing capabilities. Metabase, on the other hand, offers more flexibility for data modeling and advanced analytics, along with a simpler and more intuitive user experience.