Open-source software Redis unveils a quicker, upgraded version for public use once again
In a significant development for the Redis community, the latest version of the in-memory key-value database, Redis 8.2, is now generally available. This release comes alongside the return of the original developer of Redis, Salvatore Sanfilippo (antirez), to Redis Ltd in 2022. However, the shift towards a dual license model in Redis 7.4 and Redis 7.8 has sparked a debate among users, particularly those still using Redis 7.2, which is scheduled to reach its end-of-life date at the end of February 2026.
For these organizations, two options present themselves: upgrading to Redis 8.2 or switching to Valkey, a fork of Redis 7.2.4 that offers a continuation of the last truly permissive open-source Redis fork. Here is a detailed comparison of the pros and cons of each option:
| Aspect | Redis 8.2 Upgrade | Valkey (fork of Redis 7.2) | |------------------------|-------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------| | Performance | Up to 35% faster command execution and 49% higher throughput, exceeding 1 million ops/sec per instance; optimized commands and I/O threading boost mixed workload efficiency[1][5]. | Performance roughly comparable to Redis 7.2 baseline; not as aggressively optimized as Redis 8.2, but actively maintained with plans for newer versions[3]. | | Memory Use | Major memory savings up to 67% in specific scenarios due to a new unified key-value object structure; JSON storage efficiency increased dramatically (up to two-thirds reduction)[1][2]. | Similar memory profile as Redis 7.2; lacks the latest memory optimizations of Redis 8.2[3]. | | New Features | 18 data structures supported versus fewer in 7.2; includes a vector database, Redis Query Engine, improved Redis Streams, advanced bitmap operations, cluster monitoring enhancements, and security fixes[2][5]. | Stays on Redis 7.2 feature set; no new major features introduced beyond what Redis 7.2 had at fork time, but with ongoing fixes and updates planned in newer Valkey versions[3]. | | Licensing and Open Source | Redis 8.2 returned to a form of open source under a dual license; it remains free for general use but with licensing changes from older BSD; supported by Redis Labs[1][5]. | Valkey is a fork from Redis 7.2 under a fully permissive open-source license (BSD-like) aimed at preserving FOSS freedoms longer term[3]. | | Ecosystem and Support | Backed by Redis Labs with broad ecosystem tools (e.g., Redis Insight with AI Copilot), and wide Linux distro support (Debian 13 offers Redis 8.0.2 alongside Valkey)[3][5]. | Increasing momentum among distros valuing true permissive licensing, e.g., RHEL 10 ships Valkey; community-driven with smaller but growing support base[3]. | | Security | Includes important recent CVE fixes and improved connection handling[2]. | Maintains security status of Redis 7.2 at fork time; security depends on Valkey project activity and patches post-fork. |
Summary
- Upgrade to Redis 8.2 if you prioritize max performance, memory efficiency, new features, security patches, and access to Redis Labs’ ecosystem and are comfortable with its current licensing model.
- Choose Valkey if maintaining a fully permissive open-source license is a primary concern and you want to avoid license complexities introduced with Redis post-7.2, accepting a smaller feature set and somewhat older baseline performance.
Given Redis 7.2’s imminent end of life (February 2026), organizations must choose either to adopt the latest Redis 8.x features and improvements or switch to Valkey as a sustainable FOSS path aligned with their licensing priorities and distro support[3].
Valkey, which has been gaining momentum, is now included in RHEL 10, while the newly-released Debian 13 offers a choice between Redis 8.0.2 and Valkey 8.1.1. The lead developers of Valkey are also planning version 9, making it an exciting prospect for organizations seeking a fully permissive open-source Redis solution.
[1] Redis 8.2 Performance Improvements: https://redis.com/blog/redis-8-2-performance-improvements [2] Redis 8.2 Features: https://redis.com/blog/redis-8-2-features [3] Valkey: A Fork of Redis 7.2.4: https://valkeydb.io/ [4] Redis 8.2 Licensing: https://redis.com/about/legal/redis-open-source-licensing [5] Redis 8.2: A Comprehensive Guide: https://redislabs.com/blog/redis-8-2-a-comprehensive-guide
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