The ELT-First Revolution: Best Data Integration Tools for a Post-ETL World
The way we manage data pipelines has changed.
The industry has moved from the traditional ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) process to an ELT (Extract, Load, Transform) model. In short, ETL transforms data before loading it into the destination. ELT, on the other hand, loads raw data first and transforms it within modern cloud data warehouses.
This shift is more than a trend. It's a response to changes in how businesses store, query, and analyze data. With the rise of cloud-native data warehouses like Snowflake and BigQuery, teams need faster, more scalable, and cost-effective tools. ELT makes that possible.
Why ELT Is Replacing ETL
Why is ELT replacing ETL?
In traditional ETL pipelines, the transformation process in even the top ETL solutions for integrating data happens before the data enters the storage layer. This worked when computers and storage were tightly coupled. But with cloud systems, that model creates bottlenecks and inflates costs.
ELT defers transformations until after the data lands in the warehouse. This takes advantage of the scalable computing power of platforms like Redshift, Snowflake, and BigQuery.
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Technical drivers of this shift include:
- Cloud-native data warehouses that decouple storage and compute
- Real-time analytics that require faster data ingestion
- Streaming architecture adoption across industries
- Scalable compute environments that support in-database processing
Benefits of ELT over ETL:
- Lower infrastructure costs by leveraging cloud warehouse compute
- Faster data ingestion for real-time needs
- More flexible transformations using SQL and db-native tools
- Easier maintenance and debugging in modular systems
Comparing ETL and ELT (Table)
What to Look for in an ELT-First Tool
Not every data pipeline solution works well in an ELT-first model. The best ELT tools for data integration share some core features.
What are some key ELT-first tool capabilities?
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Native Support for Cloud Data Warehouses
Top ELT platforms integrate directly with cloud-native warehouses such as Snowflake, BigQuery, and Redshift. These connections streamline loading and allow teams to transform data efficiently using warehouse compute.
Change Data Capture (CDC)
CDC tracks changes in source data and updates target systems in near real-time. ELT tools with CDC can support real-time analytics and event-driven architectures.
Separation of Extract/Load from Transform
A clean separation between the extract/load and transform stages promotes modular, manageable workflows. This structure of the best ELT tools makes it easier to debug, scale, and repurpose parts of the pipeline.
Flexible Orchestration Options
Look for ELT tools that let you integrate with orchestration platforms like Airflow, Prefect, or Dagster. Flexible orchestration means you can schedule, monitor, and automate pipelines based on your team’s processes.
Open-Source Community or Plugin Extensibility
Open-source ELT tools benefit from community contributions and transparency. Extensibility through plugins or APIs allows teams to customize and scale solutions to their specific needs.
Deployment Flexibility
Modern ELT tools should offer a choice of cloud, self-hosted, or hybrid deployment models. This flexibility supports security, compliance, and performance requirements across diverse environments.
When evaluating highly rated ELT tools for databases, choose options that match your team’s skillset, stack, and scalability needs.
The Top ELT-First Tools for Modern Data Pipelines
What is the top ELT software for data pipelines? We’ve ranked them for their ELT-first capabilities, flexibility, and scalability.
Airbyte
Airbyte is an open-source ELT platform with over 600+ connectors and a strong focus on extensibility.
Why is Airbyte great for ELT?
- Open-source core with active community
- Cloud and self-hosted deployment options
- CDC support for real-time data use cases
- Low-code connector builder for custom integrations
Best for: Data teams seeking flexibility and scalability with a modern toolset.
Limitations: Requires setup and familiarity with orchestration tools like Airflow or Prefect when self-hosted.
Fivetran
Fivetran is a managed ELT solution known for ease of use and out-of-the-box connectors.
Why is Fivetran great for ELT?
- Fully managed with minimal configuration
- Strong data sync reliability
- CDC for many supported sources
Best for: Non-technical teams or companies that want managed pipelines.
Limitations: Less customizable and higher cost at scale.
Hevo Data
Hevo Data is a no-code data pipeline platform designed for real-time syncing.
Why is Hevo Data great for ELT?
- Real-time pipeline support
- Intuitive UI for business users
- Prebuilt transformations and monitoring tools
Best for: Mid-market companies and teams needing quick implementation.
Limitations: May lack flexibility for custom transformations or advanced data ops.
Estuary Flow
Estuary specializes in real-time CDC and event-driven architecture.
Why is Estuary Flow great for ELT?
- Strong focus on real-time syncing
- Designed for streaming-first environments
- Easy integration with analytics stacks
Best for: Startups and streaming-heavy pipelines.
Limitations: May not cover as many traditional connectors or batch workflows.
Matillion
Matillion started as one of the best ETL options for data integration purposes but now supports ELT by pushing transformations into the warehouse.
Why is Matillion great for ELT?
- Push-down ELT support into Snowflake and BigQuery
- Visual orchestration tools for enterprise teams
- Extensive integration with BI tools
Best for: Enterprises with complex BI needs.
Limitations: Often requires a steep learning curve; priced for larger orgs.
Airbyte’s Role in the ELT-First Era
Airbyte stands out in this new generation of ELT-first platforms. It was built from the ground up with modern data pipelines in mind.
Airbyte offers:
- 600+ prebuilt connectors to major databases, APIs, and file systems
- Low-code connector builder for niche or proprietary data sources
- Change Data Capture for incremental and real-time updates
- Schema evolution support, helping pipelines stay robust over time
- Flexible deployment options, including Airbyte Cloud and self-hosted OSS
- Open-source model with enterprise-level extensibility
Airbyte helps teams scale without giving up control or customization. Learn more about the platform through Airbyte Documentation.
Summary and Evaluation Framework
How can you select the best ELT-first tool for your data pipeline?
Choosing the right ELT-first tool depends on your data size, team structure, and goals. Here is a simplified matrix to help you decide:
When selecting the best data pipeline tool for integrating data, consider:
- Whether you need open-source control or a fully managed service
- Support for real-time or batch processing
- Flexibility to transform data inside your warehouse
Try Airbyte Today
Looking for a flexible, scalable ELT-first platform?
Airbyte offers a free plan with self-hosting for those who want full control over their data pipelines without governance requirements, with usage-based pricing options for advanced features. You can even experience a free trial of our cloud-based hosting.
Try Airbyte or explore the Airbyte connector library to see how modern data teams build pipelines today. Find the right data solution today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ELT stand for in data integration?
ELT stands for Extract, Load, Transform. It is a method where raw data is first loaded into a data warehouse, then transformed using the warehouse’s computing power.
How is ELT different from ETL?
ELT loads data before transforming it, using the storage and compute resources of cloud warehouses. ETL transforms data before loading it, usually on separate infrastructure.
Why is ELT better for cloud data warehouses?
ELT uses the scalable compute power of cloud data warehouses like Snowflake and BigQuery, making transformations faster, cheaper, and easier to manage.
What are the best ELT tools for data integration?
Top ELT tools include Airbyte, Fivetran, Hevo Data, Estuary Flow, and Matillion. Each supports ELT pipelines with different strengths like open-source support, CDC, and real-time syncing.
Does ELT support real-time data pipelines?
Yes. ELT supports near real-time processing when paired with tools that offer Change Data Capture (CDC) and streaming architecture compatibility.
What should I look for in an ELT tool?
Look for native support for cloud warehouses, CDC, flexible transformation orchestration, open-source or extensible architecture, and deployment options.
Is Airbyte an ELT tool?
Yes. Airbyte is an ELT-first platform with 600+ connectors, open-source flexibility, and support for both real-time and batch data pipelines.
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