Executive SummaryUpdated on Jun 19, 2025
Splunk Observability Cloud and Cribl compete in the observability and data management category. Splunk has the upper hand in offering feature-rich solutions, while Cribl focuses on cost-effective, streamlined data management.
Features: Splunk Observability Cloud provides robust log searching, data integration, and customizable dashboards for detailed application performance troubleshooting. It boasts real-time visibility across hybrid environments and a comprehensive service map. Cribl excels in data transformation, offering efficient log data management and real-time processing capabilities. Its strength lies in flexible data handling across multiple data sources.
Room for Improvement: Splunk could benefit from simplifying its complex and costly model, improving automated processes, microservices scaling, and better database connectors. There's also a need for more intuitive log navigation. Cribl would improve with better integration into existing systems and more intuitive documentation. Enhancing its version management and real-time data handling could prevent data loss.
Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Splunk offers extensive deployment options, including on-premises, public, and hybrid clouds, although technical support feedback varies, sometimes described as slow. Cribl primarily supports on-premises and hybrid models, and is noted for responsive and effective support, although some users prefer internal expertise.
Pricing and ROI: Splunk's high licensing fees make it expensive, especially in data-heavy environments, but users report operational efficiency ROI. Cribl, while not the cheapest, is seen as more cost-effective with savings in licensing and operations, offering good value for scalable data management.
To learn more, read our detailed
Cribl vs. Splunk Observability Cloud Report (Updated: July 2025).
