The 8 Best Redshift ETL Tools for 2023 (Features, Pros, Cons, Pricing)

Have you found the optimal Redshift ETL (extract, transform, and load) tools to streamline your data handling and construction of data pipelines? It's a tough question to answer, as it's uncommon to find a one-size-fits-all tool for every task. The key consideration is to select the tools that align well with your needs and those of your team.

When it comes to picking the most suitable Redshift ETL tools for your organization, a great starting point is to evaluate your current data infrastructure and pinpoint any obstacles you're facing.

• Do you find it challenging to design intricate workflows in a visually appealing manner?
• Are teams without a technical background capable of utilizing ETL tools effectively?
• Is it possible for you to automate data coordination while implementing top-tier monitoring mechanisms for your ETL workflow?
• Does your chosen ETL tool for Redshift adhere to security standards and compliance requirements?

Here at Shipyard, we have extensive experience with Redshift ETL, and we've taken the initiative to explore a variety of tools to ascertain the most dependable options for diverse ETL requirements across companies. Given that some tools share similar functionalities, we've highlighted distinguishing factors to assist you in aligning tool features with your specific needs.

8 Redshift ETL tools to consider

1. Shipyard

Shipyard serves as a contemporary cloud-native orchestration platform that seamlessly integrates tools, streamlines processes, and establishes a robust data foundation. The platform's adaptable workflow automation features facilitate the creation and refinement of workflows for a broad range of applications. For example, its user-friendly low-code templates enable both technical and non-technical teams to rapidly tailor data processes and execute ETL tasks.

By integrating with GitHub, Shipyard provides continuous version management, streamlined deployment, and current code. Additionally, Shipyard delivers dependable monitoring accompanied by real-time alerts, allowing you to promptly detect and resolve pressing data pipeline challenges before they adversely affect your enterprise. The platform's compatibility with a multitude of data sources enables you to swiftly extract, transform, and load data into your Redshift repository.

Top use case:

Shipyard caters to those who value flexibility and scalability in managing their data pipelines. As a key Redshift ETL solution, it promotes collaboration among team members while enabling them to seamlessly scale and customize their data processes. Enhanced by its diverse integrations, intuitive data transformation, visual interface, and committed customer support, Shipyard emerges as the go-to Redshift ETL tool for successful data orchestration.

Pros:

• Shipyard provides a rapid setup process and a user-friendly, straightforward interface, facilitating adoption by both seasoned and novice users.
• The platform enables the creation of sophisticated workflow automations through its low-code templates and graphical interface.
• Shipyard is compatible with a diverse range of data sources, including Fivetran, dbt Cloud, Airtable, Amazon S3, spreadsheets, among others.
• It boasts powerful reporting features, allowing you to identify inefficiencies and promptly implement process updates or enhancements. For example, you can monitor the status, duration, and resource consumption of each workflow and task.
• Shipyard delivers precise real-time alerts for critical disruptions while ensuring secure data handling with no data loss.
• The platform allows you to swiftly implement new logic in your data pipelines and scales effectively as your data volume increases.
• Comprehensive documentation and Changelog provide an extensive knowledge repository to assist users in gaining a deeper understanding of the platform.
• Shipyard also provides chat-based assistance and enables users to schedule direct calls with the customer support team.
• Users have access to the API for bulk updating and creating workflows.
• Logs can be exported or stored externally.
• Shipyard features built-in credential management.

Cons:

• The platform lacks ready-made connectors for importing data from software-as-a-service (SaaS) applications.
• It is not possible to host Shipyard independently on your own infrastructure.

Pricing:

• Shipyard offers a free plan—which is great for users who want to test out the platform’s capabilities before switching to it completely.
• Its basic paid plan starts at $50/month and works on a pay-per-use model. As your organization grows and usage increases, the price varies. You can calculate the exact pricing plan for your team here.

2. Matillion

Matillion is a cloud-native ETL platform that facilitates the transfer of data from more than 70 distinct data sources to data warehouses, including Snowflake, Amazon Redshift, Google BigQuery, and others. The platform boasts a relatively straightforward setup process and an intuitive user interface, making it a practical option for data engineers to work with.

While Matillion provides the convenience of drag-and-drop functionality within its visual workspaces, it does necessitate proficiency in SQL. This requirement can pose a limitation to its accessibility, particularly for non-technical users who may wish to utilize the platform for specific industry-related tasks.

In summary, Matillion ETL is seamlessly integrated with the Redshift data warehouse, and its scheduling orchestration feature allows for the generation of workflows as resources become accessible.

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Top use case:

For individuals looking to consolidate and transform data from a diverse array of sources—including customer relationship management systems (CRMs), enterprise resource planning systems (ERPs), and social media platforms—Matillion presents itself as a practical solution for directing this data into their selected data warehouse or data lake.

Pros:

• Matillion boasts robust integrations with a broad array of cloud-based applications, sparing you the added cost of acquiring new connectors (a practice that has become standard for numerous tools).
• Users have the flexibility to execute data transformations by writing custom SQL code or by crafting transformation components through the graphical user interface (GUI).
• The platform is compatible with more than 70 data sources, encompassing a range of databases, CRM systems, ERP solutions, and beyond.
• Customer assistance is readily accessible through an online ticket submission system as well as telephonic support.
• A generous selection of online resources is available, enabling teams to swiftly initiate their data transformation endeavors.

Cons:

• The absence of pre-configured templates means that users must begin with a blank slate and construct everything independently, a process that can require a significant investment of time.
• The platform does not offer the convenience of live chat assistance.
• Users lack the ability to autonomously introduce new data sources or make modifications to existing ones.

Pricing:

• Data loader is free to use, whereas Matillion ETL comes with a 14-day free trial.
• Matillion ETL has three paid plans: Basic, Advanced, and Enterprise. You can check out their detailed pricing here.

3. Fivetran

Fivetran is a well-regarded ETL tool that seamlessly replicates data from applications, databases, events, and files into high-efficiency cloud data warehouses. Its straightforward setup process, which involves linking data sources to their respective destinations, contributes to its standing as one of the most user-friendly and proficient ETL tools for Redshift.

Fivetran's data pipelines benefit from automatic and ongoing updates facilitated by fully managed connectors. This arrangement allows you to dedicate your attention to analytical endeavors while bypassing the monotonous, recurring tasks associated with the ETL process.

Capable of extracting data from over 5,000 cloud-based applications, Fivetran also provides the flexibility to rapidly integrate new data sources. The tool is compatible with cutting-edge data warehouses, including Snowflake, Azure, Amazon Redshift, BigQuery, and Google Cloud, making data querying a breeze.

Complementary features such as real-time monitoring, dependable connectors, alert notifications, and detailed system logs further enable data analysts and data engineers to craft resilient ETL pipelines using Fivetran.

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Top use case:

Fivetran presents itself as a well-suited Redshift data ETL solution for those who are at the onset of their ETL endeavors and are in search of a tool that boasts a streamlined setup and user-friendly interface. Moreover, it's an appealing option for enterprises that aim to consolidate data from a wide array of sources into data warehouses while avoiding undue complexities.

Pros:

• The platform boasts automated data pipelines equipped with consistent schemas.
• Specialized training or tailor-made coding is not a prerequisite.
• Users have the convenience of accessing their entire data set using SQL queries.
• The platform grants users the autonomy to incorporate new data sources on their own accord.
• Full data replication is furnished as a standard feature.
• Customer support is readily accessible through a ticket-based system.

Cons:

• The platform does not offer the flexibility to deploy or operate services within an on-premises setting.
• The product documentation has room for improvement in terms of clarity and detail.
• Determining the ultimate pricing structure of the platform may require some careful navigation.

Pricing:

• Fivetran offers a 14-day free trial for each of its paid plans.
• It has four paid pricing plans. You can also request for a custom quote if you’re an enterprise that needs access for unlimited users and usage.
• Fivetran also offers a free tier option. You can check it out here.

4. Stitch

Stitch is a cloud-native ETL platform that streamlines the process of ingesting data from a multitude of SaaS applications and databases, transferring it to data warehouses and data lakes for analysis using business intelligence (BI) tools. With its user-friendly setup and minimal prerequisites, teams can rapidly deploy Stitch and initiate data movement.

Stitch focuses on performing the transformations necessary to achieve compatibility with the target destination, including tasks such as flattening nested data and converting data types as required. Users have the option to define transformations using Python, Java, SQL, or through a graphical user interface.

Equipped with connectors for over 100 databases and SaaS integrations, Stitch supports a broad array of data warehouses, data sources, and data lake destinations. Additionally, Stitch provides users with the versatility to create and incorporate new data sources into the platform.

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Top use case:

Stitch's uncomplicated and intuitive design positions it as an attractive choice for a wide array of teams, encompassing both engineering-oriented groups such as DataOps and non-technical departments like marketing. Users can seamlessly oversee their ETL operations via the platform's accessible user interface. Owing to Stitch's extensive selection of integrations, it emerges as a fitting ETL solution for organizations seeking to consolidate data from a diverse collection of sources.

Pros:

• Stitch boasts a user-friendly design that enables swift setup by teams without specialized technical knowledge.
• The platform's scheduling capability ensures the timely loading of tables based on predefined schedules.
• Users are empowered to independently incorporate new data sources into the platform.
• All customers have access to in-app chat assistance, while enterprise-level users can benefit from dedicated phone support.
• Stitch furnishes thorough documentation, and support service level agreements (SLAs) can be arranged.

Cons:

• The platform is limited by the absence of data transformation features.
• Navigating sizable datasets can be complex and may have implications for system performance.
• The platform does not offer the flexibility to deploy or operate services within an on-premises setting.

Pricing:

• Stitch offers a 14-day free trial and custom paid plans depending on scale.

5. Integrate.io

Integrate.io presents itself as a data warehouse integration platform thoughtfully designed for ecommerce organizations. Equipped with a ready-for-use native Redshift connector, Integrate.io stands as one of the premier ETL tools for Redshift, providing support for over 200 data sources. The platform delivers code-free solutions, empowering data engineers and data analysts to swiftly execute custom transformation jobs that leverage data from multiple sources.

Integrate.io boasts a user-friendly interface, an extensive selection of preconfigured functions, and a visual editor that streamlines the process of package creation. While the platform excels in handling SQL transformations, users may encounter some complexities when working with JSON or other types of nested data.

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Top use case:

Integrate.io holds a prominent position as the go-to ETL option for Redshift among eCommerce businesses that handle a diverse array of data sources and place a strong emphasis on analytics-based decision-making.

Pros:

• Integrate.io furnishes a ready-made connector tailored for Redshift.
• The platform's user-friendly drag-and-drop interface streamlines the data transformation process, making it highly accessible to non-technical users.
• Integrate.io demonstrates robust compatibility with a broad selection of platforms, databases, applications, and data warehouses, including AWS, Microsoft Azure, Oracle, Salesforce, Amazon Redshift, Tableau, and beyond.
• Integrate.io places a premium on data security and regulatory adherence. By transforming data prior to loading it into Redshift, the platform ensures compliance with legal frameworks such as GDPR, HIPAA, CCPA, and others.

Cons:

• The task of debugging may require a modest investment of time, as it entails carefully reviewing the error log to ascertain the fundamental cause of the issue.

Pricing:

• You need to schedule a demo via Calendly to get a custom pricing plan based on your needs.

6. Apache Airflow

Apache Airflow stands as a widely embraced open-source Redshift ETL tool that is free to utilize. It empowers users to keep tabs on, schedule, and oversee their workflows via a cutting-edge web application.

A fundamental principle of Apache Airflow is the Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG), in which tasks are organized with upstream and downstream dependencies that delineate the logical sequence of their execution. Visual depictions of DAGs, along with task trees, provide a clear perspective on the operational behavior of the DAG.

The definition of Airflow pipelines is accomplished using the Python programming language, necessitating the use of Python's standard capabilities to devise workflows and generate tasks dynamically. For adept data engineers, this is a favorable attribute, as Python's adaptability grants users the latitude to exercise comprehensive flexibility in the construction of workflows.

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Top use case:

Apache Airflow serves as a fitting option for data engineers and data analysts who often find themselves engaged in the development of elaborate pipelines. The platform's capabilities make it a valuable asset for professionals seeking to design and manage intricate data workflows with ease.

Pros:

• Apache Airflow is equipped with exceptional features that facilitate the creation of sophisticated data pipelines.
• The platform provides wide-ranging support through Slack.
• The Airflow community has contributed numerous online resources, including how-to guides and troubleshooting instructions, that are readily accessible across the internet.

Cons:

• Apache Airflow's user interface, while functional, may not offer the smoothest user experience and can occasionally feel a bit unwieldy.
• Familiarity with the Python programming language is essential for utilizing the platform effectively.
• Once pipelines are established, making alterations to them can prove to be a challenging task.
• The platform is accompanied by detailed documentation, which users are encouraged to thoroughly review and understand to ensure that their configurations align with their specific objectives and needs.

Pricing:

• Apache Airflow ETL is an open-source platform, licensed under Apache License Version 2.0, and is free to use.

7. StreamSets

SteamSets is a cloud-focused, all-in-one ETL solution crafted to create advanced data ingestion pipelines that supply ongoing data essential for analytics. It offers potent ready-made connectors for data input, streamlining and speeding up the data pipeline construction process.

Additionally, you can handle real-time data to ensure its availability for downstream applications in a tailored format, and even establish a monitoring layer. Moreover, integrated parsers simplify the task of breaking down large and intricate payloads containing key-value pairs, JSON, and XML.

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Top use case:

StreamSets is a fantastic Redshift ETL tool for companies and data engineers who handle a large amount of file streaming or data input sources, making it a go-to choice in the business world.

Pros:

• StreamSets features a user-friendly UX that makes open-source design for PoC (Proof of Concept) and adaptability a breeze.
• Its modular nature allows it to easily integrate into your architecture when needed.
• The platform offers a handy drag-and-drop interface for carrying out data transformations, such as adding, removing, looking up, and typecasting, prior to loading the data into warehouses or other destinations.
• The system is highly customizable, giving users the freedom to add and modify data sources as they see fit.
• With support for 50+ data sources, including databases and streaming options like MapR and Kafka, it's got you covered.
• If you need assistance, customer support is just a click away via an online ticketing system, or you can give them a call.

Cons:

• With the latest version, users have to buy extra components (Control Hub), which involves managing, patching, and upgrading 16 more databases – making the platform a bit more complex.
• Sorting through logs and error messages to identify issues can be a bit of a hassle.
• Unfortunately, it doesn't provide live chat support for customers.

Pricing:

• StreamSets offers a 30-day free trial.
• It offers three pricing plans: Free, Professional, and Enterprise. You can check out more details about these pricing plans here.

8. Etleap

Etleap is a widely recognized Redshift ETL tool, designed to create and manage data pipelines for transforming data to Snowflake and Amazon Redshift. One of its key advantages is the ability to connect to multiple databases or sources of the same type within the licensed connector, making it more user-friendly.

This versatile tool can handle data from various sources, including corporate databases, log files, sensors, message queues, simple file storage, ERP systems, and more.

Moreover, Etleap's easy-to-use interface allows users to seamlessly add or modify new data sources with a single click, while also implementing custom transformations.

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Top use case:

Etleap makes life easier for data engineers by offering a straightforward yet powerful solution to gather data from multiple sources and stage it for further analysis. After staging, they can play around with mockups to craft the perfect analytical models.

Pros:

• Etleap makes data transformations a breeze using both its GUI and custom SQL, allowing users to easily manage and schedule data pipelines.
• Crafting connectors with Etleap is hassle-free, as there's no need to dive into coding.
• The platform offers convenient data pipeline monitoring via its intuitive dashboard.
• Catering to over 50 data sources, including SaaS, databases, files, BI tools, and event streams, Etleap has got your back.
• They also provide exceptional in-app customer chat support whenever you need help.

Cons:

• Users can't just jump in and add or modify data sources on their own.
• Etleap could do better when it comes to offering in-depth documentation or a go-to resource hub for users to get the hang of the platform.

Pricing:

• Etleap offers a 30-day free trial after a demo with the sales team.
• There are no pricing options available on the company website. You have to get in touch with the team or request a demo to learn more.

Final thoughts

Navigating the numerous Redshift ETL tools on the market can be quite the challenge, with the abundance of options making it tricky to find the best fit for you. So, let's keep things uncomplicated.

If you're on the hunt for an easy-going yet potent Redshift data ETL tool that simplifies your ETL processes, you might want to check out Shipyard.

Now, if you're just starting your ETL journey and need a straightforward tool, Fivetran is a pretty good choice. But keep in mind, it could feel a bit limiting as your data pipeline demands grow.

Got any questions about ETL tools or data pipelines? Feel free to contact our team. We're here to help you figure out exactly what you're looking for.