Lago vs Orb: Open-Source Billing vs a Billing Specialist Now Inside Adyen

Lago and Orb are two distinct billing platforms catering to different organizational needs, with Lago offering an open-source, self-hostable solution and Orb providing a closed-source, cloud-only service now under Adyen's ownership as of July 1, 2026. While both effectively meter high-volume usage, the choice between them primarily hinges on where billing logic resides—either within a user's control as with Lago, or within a vendor's infrastructure as with Orb. Lago appeals to teams that prioritize self-hosting, PSP neutrality, and direct modification of billing logic, making it suitable for regulated industries with specific data residency requirements. On the other hand, Orb's strengths lie in its mature SQL-driven pricing experimentation and enterprise revenue recognition, making it ideal for companies already integrated with Adyen and those valuing a polished UI for pricing simulations. Despite Orb's acquisition potentially affecting its PSP neutrality, it remains a robust option for those seeking depth in managed billing solutions without operational ownership. Pricing structures differ, with Lago's open-source core being free to self-host and Orb's pricing requiring consultation, reflecting different strategic priorities and organizational preferences.

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