Executive SummaryUpdated on Sep 21, 2025
Splunk Observability Cloud and Apache SkyWalking compete in the observability and monitoring market. Splunk Observability Cloud seems to have an advantage when it comes to support and scalability, while Apache SkyWalking provides an attractive open-source solution.
Features: Splunk Observability Cloud provides features like comprehensive distributed tracing, infrastructure monitoring, and alerting capabilities. It offers real-time insights with AI-driven analytics. Apache SkyWalking is known for its extensibility and strong support for cloud-native environments. Its ability to integrate seamlessly into diverse technology stacks stands out. Splunk focuses on end-to-end observability with rich analytics, while SkyWalking offers flexibility and adaptability for various deployment scenarios.
Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Splunk Observability Cloud is recognized for its streamlined deployment process and comprehensive support, enabling businesses to gain insights quickly. Apache SkyWalking requires more technical expertise due to its open-source nature, benefiting from a supportive open-source community. Splunk's approach suits those seeking immediate operational efficiency, whereas SkyWalking is ideal for those valuing adaptability and customization.
Pricing and ROI: Splunk Observability Cloud generally has a higher setup cost, justified by its robust features and reliable customer support, enhancing ROI by reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency. Apache SkyWalking, being open-source, offers a lower setup cost, appealing for businesses focused on budget flexibility while maintaining effective performance monitoring. Splunk may be more costly but offers long-term value through enhanced capabilities and insights.
