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Databricks
databricks.com · Databricks AI Platform · scored Dec 2025Databricks leads AI platforms, billing splits into two
Best forEnterprises running Spark-based data lakes needing unified engineering and ML workflows.
Unified Lakehouse platform for data warehousing, engineering, and generative AI at enterprise scale.
Learning curve
Steep learning curve, best for teams with data engineering expertise
Upside
- Unified Lakehouse for data and AI
- Leader in both Gartner DSML and DBMS
- FedRAMP High and DoD IL5 authorized
Catch
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- DBU pricing is complex and unpredictable
- Bills split between Databricks and cloud
Editor's takeDatabricks is the only cloud-native vendor named a Leader in both the Gartner DSML and DBMS Magic Quadrants. More than 60% of the Fortune 500 use its Data Intelligence Platform, and it holds FedRAMP High authorization. Billing splits into two invoices, and interactive workloads can cost nearly 4x more than automated jobs.
How does Databricks pricing work?
Databricks charges by Databricks Units (DBUs) on top of a separate cloud infrastructure bill from AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. Interactive notebook usage costs nearly 4x more than automated jobs.
Is Databricks FedRAMP authorized?
Yes. Databricks holds FedRAMP High authorization and DoD Impact Level 5 provisional authorization, supporting sensitive government and enterprise workloads.
The evidence: 6 criteria, 3 penalties (−0.15 points)
Score adjustments−0.15 points in total








