GP Databases Compared: PitchBook vs. Preqin vs. GP Intel

Why the right GP database matters

Access to quality GP data is fundamental for LPs, fund-of-funds managers, and advisory firms. The database you choose shapes which GPs you discover, how you evaluate them, and ultimately which managers enter your portfolio. With several platforms competing for this market, it is worth understanding what each offers and where they differ.

PitchBook: breadth across asset classes

PitchBook is one of the largest financial data platforms, covering private equity, venture capital, M&A, and public markets. Its strength lies in breadth: deep deal-level data, company financials, and LP commitment records. For PE professionals who need a single platform spanning multiple asset classes, PitchBook is a strong choice. However, its pricing reflects its scope, and European PE coverage, while growing, can be less granular than specialist platforms.

Preqin: the LP and fundraising standard

Preqin has long been the industry standard for LP intelligence and fundraising data. Its fund-level performance benchmarks, investor profiles, and fund terms databases are among the most cited in the industry. Preqin excels for LPs evaluating fund commitments and for GPs researching potential LP targets. Like PitchBook, it carries enterprise-level pricing and may offer more data than a focused European PE team needs.

GP Intel: European PE focus

GP Intel is a specialist platform focused exclusively on the European private equity GP universe. With 1,000+ GP profiles, 21,000+ portfolio companies, and coverage across 15+ markets, it provides deep data on the European buyout, growth, and VC landscape. Unlike the broader platforms, GP Intel is designed for users whose primary focus is European GP sourcing. It includes team-level data (LinkedIn, email), fund histories, portfolio company details, and modern search. The free tier makes it accessible for individuals and smaller teams.

How to choose

The best platform depends on your use case. If you need global multi-asset coverage, PitchBook is comprehensive. If LP intelligence and benchmarking are your priority, Preqin leads. If you are focused on European PE GP sourcing and want deep, actionable data at an accessible price point, GP Intel is purpose-built for that workflow.

Many teams use more than one platform. GP Intel can serve as a specialist layer on top of a broader data provider, giving European PE teams the depth they need without paying for global coverage they don't use.