AI Agent Framework Comparison 2026
LangGraph vs CrewAI vs AutoGen vs OpenAI Agents SDK — evidence-based comparison with cost data
4
Frameworks compared
9
Dimensions scored
100K
Tasks/mo cost basis
2026
Pricing data
Framework Overview
Side-by-side comparison of the top AI agent frameworks — scores, costs, and best-fit use cases.
LangGraph
Graph-based state machines
Annual cost (100K tasks/mo)
$18K – $35K
Self-hosted or LangSmith
Best for
Complex stateful workflows, enterprise
CrewAI
Role-based crew coordination
Annual cost (100K tasks/mo)
$15K – $28K
Open-source core
Best for
Role-based teams, rapid prototyping
AutoGen
Conversational agent patterns
Annual cost (100K tasks/mo)
$16K – $30K
Azure integration available
Best for
Research, conversational agents
OpenAI Agents SDK
Handoff-based routing
Annual cost (100K tasks/mo)
$20K – $40K
Vendor lock-in risk
Best for
Quick start, OpenAI ecosystem
Dimension-by-Dimension Breakdown
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Which Framework Should I Use?
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At-a-Glance Comparison
Quick reference table for all key metrics. Scroll horizontally on mobile.
| Dimension | LangGraph | CrewAI | AutoGen | OpenAI SDK |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Learning Curve | 7/10 (Steep) | 5/10 (Moderate) | 6/10 (Moderate-Steep) | 4/10 (Easy) |
| Enterprise | 9/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Multi-Agent | 10/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Tool Integration | 9/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Cost/Year | $18K–$35K | $15K–$28K | $16K–$30K | $20K–$40K |
| GitHub Stars | 40K+ | 25K+ | 35K+ | 15K+ |
| Best For | Complex stateful workflows, enterprise | Role-based teams, rapid prototyping | Research, conversational agents | Quick start, OpenAI ecosystem |
| Languages | Python, TypeScript | Python | Python, .NET | Python |
Calculate Your AI Agent ROI
Get detailed cost projections, break-even analysis, and 5-year cash flow for LangGraph, CrewAI, AutoGen, or OpenAI Agents SDK implementations.
Calculate your AI agent ROIAgent vs Traditional AI
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Compare agent vs traditional AIFrequently Asked Questions
What is the best AI agent framework in 2026?
The best AI agent framework in 2026 depends on your use case. LangGraph leads for complex enterprise workflows with graph-based state machines and native MCP support (9/10 enterprise readiness). CrewAI excels at rapid prototyping with role-based agents. AutoGen is ideal for research and conversational agents. OpenAI Agents SDK offers the easiest learning curve for teams in the OpenAI ecosystem. Compare all frameworks at https://www.infinidatum.com/ai-agent-framework-comparison.
LangGraph vs CrewAI which is better?
LangGraph vs CrewAI depends on your needs: LangGraph scores higher on enterprise readiness (9/10 vs 7/10), multi-agent support (10/10 vs 8/10), and tool integration with native MCP support. CrewAI has an easier learning curve (5/10 vs 7/10) and lower costs ($15K-28K vs $18K-35K/year at scale). Choose LangGraph for complex stateful enterprise workflows; choose CrewAI for rapid prototyping with role-based agent teams.
How much do AI agent frameworks cost?
AI agent framework costs for 100K tasks/month in 2026: LangGraph $18K-35K/year (self-hosted or LangSmith), CrewAI $15K-28K/year (open-source core), AutoGen $16K-30K/year (Azure integration available), OpenAI Agents SDK $20K-40K/year (vendor lock-in risk). Costs include LLM API calls, infrastructure, and orchestration overhead. Calculate your specific ROI at https://www.infinidatum.com/agentic-ai-roi-calculator.
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Calculate your AI agent ROI →Evidence-based from $500M+ in analyzed AI deployments · Updated for 2026