# Best Columnar Databases - Page 5

  *By [Shalaka Joshi](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/shalaka-joshi)*

   Columnar databases store data by columns rather than by rows. The data storage format in these solutions makes them faster and more efficient for instant analytical queries. These databases are used mainly in data warehouses to handle and process massive volumes of data from multiple sources by serving as a basis for business intelligence tools. These databases support document creation, retrieval via query, updating and editing, and deletion of information. Columnar stores, because of their data storage format, help minimize resource usage related to queries on big data sets. Businesses interested in implementing a database for data warehousing and big data processing may opt for a columnar database.

There are other database types similar but slightly different than columnar databases software including [object-oriented databases software](https://www.g2.com/categories/object-oriented-databases), [graph databases](https://www.g2.com/categories/graph-databases), [key-value databases](https://www.g2.com/categories/key-value-databases), and more.

To qualify for inclusion in the Columnar Databases category, a product must:

- Provide data storage
- Store data in columnar format
- Allow users to retrieve data





## Category Overview

**Total Products under this Category:** 27


## Trust & Credibility Stats

**Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:**

- 30 Analysts and Data Experts
- 3,300+ Authentic Reviews
- 27+ Products
- Unbiased Rankings

G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category.


## Best Columnar Databases At A Glance

- **Leader:** [Google Cloud BigQuery](https://www.g2.com/products/google-cloud-bigquery/reviews)
- **Highest Performer:** [ClickHouse](https://www.g2.com/products/clickhouse/reviews)
- **Easiest to Use:** [Google Cloud BigQuery](https://www.g2.com/products/google-cloud-bigquery/reviews)
- **Top Trending:** [Snowflake](https://www.g2.com/products/snowflake/reviews)
- **Best Free Software:** [Google Cloud BigQuery](https://www.g2.com/products/google-cloud-bigquery/reviews)



## Parent Category

[IT Management Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/it-management)



## Related Categories

- [Data Warehouse Solutions](https://www.g2.com/categories/data-warehouse)
- [Time Series Databases](https://www.g2.com/categories/time-series-databases)
- [Real-time Analytic Database Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/real-time-analytic-database)