1. Key Difference 1: Data Collection Methodology: Dynatrace uses an agent-based approach for data collection, which involves deploying agents on the application servers and collecting data directly from the applications. On the other hand, LightStep follows a code instrumentation method, where developers need to add specific code snippets to their applications to capture tracing data. This difference in data collection methodology affects the ease of implementation and the types of data that can be captured.

2. Key Difference 2: Root Cause Analysis Capabilities: Dynatrace provides advanced root cause analysis capabilities, including AI-powered problem detection and analysis. It uses artificial intelligence algorithms to automatically detect anomalies, identify the root cause of issues, and provide actionable insights. LightStep, on the other hand, focuses on distributed tracing and provides detailed visibility into application performance across microservices but does not offer the same level of AI-powered root cause analysis.

3. Key Difference 3: Scalability and Performance Impact: Dynatrace is designed to be highly scalable and can handle a large number of monitored entities, making it suitable for enterprise-level deployments. It also minimizes the performance impact on the monitored applications. LightStep, while also scalable, may have a higher performance impact due to the code instrumentation approach, especially in cases where extensive tracing is required.

4. Key Difference 4: Cost and Pricing Model: Dynatrace offers multiple pricing tiers based on the number of monitored entities and the level of features required, making it a more flexible option for different budgets. LightStep, on the other hand, has a more simplified pricing model based on the volume of traced data, which may be more suitable for organizations with specific tracing needs and a predictable usage pattern.

5. Key Difference 5: Deployment Options: Dynatrace offers both cloud-based and on-premises deployment options, providing flexibility for organizations with different infrastructure preferences. LightStep primarily focuses on cloud-based deployments and may not have as extensive on-premises deployment options.

6. Key Difference 6: Integration Ecosystem and Partnerships: Dynatrace has a wide range of integrations with popular technologies and platforms, including cloud providers, monitoring tools, and DevOps tools. It also has partnerships with various technology vendors. LightStep, while also offering integrations with common technologies, may have a more limited partner ecosystem and integration options.

In summary, Dynatrace and LightStep differ in their data collection methodology, root cause analysis capabilities, scalability and performance impact, cost and pricing model, deployment options, and integration ecosystem and partnerships.