Comparison · Backup software
Backblaze vs restic: which is better in 2026?
restic ranks higher in our list of backup software (#4 against #6, score 86.5 against 84.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need.
- 84.0Editorial score86.5
- 2Platforms4
- NoFree to useYes
- NoOpen sourceYes
Which should you choose?
Choose Backblaze if you want
People who want backup handled for them on a Mac or PC.
Automatic, unlimited backup for a flat $9 a month, with a free trial that needs no credit card. Restores depend on your connection, and the subscription is an ongoing cost that the free tools here avoid.
Choose restic if you want
Scripted backups from the command line on major systems.
A free, open-source command-line tool under BSD-2-Clause that covers Linux, macOS and Windows and many storage back ends. It needs a terminal and scripting, so it suits technical users rather than people who want a point-and-click app.
The main differences
- Only restic runs on Linux.
- restic is open source; Backblaze is not.
- restic can be used for free; Backblaze requires payment.
Side by side
 Backblaze |  restic | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 84.0 | 86.5 |
| Rank in list | #6 of 10 | #4 of 10 |
| Price | Subscription$9 a month for unlimited computer backup; free trial | Free and open sourceFree and open source under the BSD 2-Clause License |
| Free to use | No | Yes |
| Open source | No | Yes |
| Platforms | WindowsmacOSWindows, macOS | LinuxmacOSWindowsCommand lineLinux, macOS, Windows, Command line |
| Made by | Not stated | Not stated |
| Best for | People who want backup handled for them on a Mac or PC | Scripted backups from the command line on major systems |
| Strengths |
|
|
| Limits |
|
|
| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about Backblaze vs restic
- Is restic better than Backblaze?
- restic ranks higher in our list of backup software (#4 against #6, score 86.5 against 84.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need. Backblaze is best for: people who want backup handled for them on a Mac or PC. restic is best for: scripted backups from the command line on major systems.
Choosing between the two
Learning Center
1:17How to decide between two good optionsSettle a close call by sorting it by how hard it is to undo, setting a deadline, scoring the criteria as a tie-breaker and writing down why you chose.
1:20How to compare products fairly: what to keep in mindDefine the job, cap the must-haves, compare like with like, count total cost over one period and weigh the criteria. Includes a worked example.
