8 Best AWS Alternatives & Competitors in 2025

Offering more than 240 cloud products, Amazon Web Services (AWS) remains the largest cloud service provider to date. However, people may consider other options for practical, strategic, or financial reasons. 

Over the years and across different projects, I have relied on multiple cloud service providers to meet the diverse needs of my clients and have explored first-hand several of the best AWS alternatives in the cloud computing market.  

Here, I will discuss the top cloud service providers available in the market. From cost-effectiveness to seamless integration, each cloud service solution offers unique features, which I will discuss to help you decide on the cloud provider that best fits your needs.

Our Top Products

1. Liquid Web

Liquid Web is a top-tier cloud hosting provider that offers managed services for websites, web applications, and virtual machines. Customers know it for its high-performance computing capabilities and tailored solutions for businesses of all sizes. 

Liquid Web’s cloud services come with enterprise-grade data centers, offering security, scalability, and reliability, and the excellent support makes this solution ideal for mission-critical applications. 

I’ve used Liquid Web for several high-traffic websites, and its uptime has been incredibly reliable. Their customer support is fast and effective, which makes it my go-to for businesses that need consistent service.

“The right cloud solution can empower businesses to innovate, streamline operations, and scale effortlessly, making it a crucial decision for long-term success.”
– Jim Geiger, CEO of Liquid Web

2. Digital Ocean

Digital Ocean is a cloud service provider that simplifies cloud computing with its easy-to-use interface and competitive pricing. It offers developers scalable cloud hosting with virtual machines (droplets) and other cloud services like managed databases and managed Kubernetes. 

This platform is ideal for developers and small businesses looking for straightforward and cost-effective cloud hosting. Digital Ocean excels with its developer-friendly tools and API, making it easy to integrate with other systems. 

Having used Digital Ocean for several simple web apps and personal projects, I appreciate its simplicity in deploying and managing applications. Its affordability is another draw. However, scaling beyond certain limits can be tricky.

3. Microsoft Azure

Microsoft Azure, one of the leading cloud platforms, provides comprehensive cloud services that include virtual machines, databases, and machine learning tools. Known for its optimized performance in hybrid cloud environments, it allows businesses to seamlessly integrate their on-premises infrastructure with the cloud. 

Microsoft Azure also offers extensive enterprise applications and integration tools, making it a popular choice for larger businesses. Its robust support for data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning makes Microsoft Azure ideal for businesses requiring big data processing.

After working with Microsoft Azure on several applications, I can say that its smooth integration with Microsoft tools and services is invaluable in streamlining workflows.

4. IBM Cloud

IBM Cloud has a wide range of cloud computing services that focus heavily on artificial intelligence, data analytics, and hybrid cloud solutions. It provides managed databases, virtual servers, and data centers globally, ensuring scalability and reliability. 

In particular, IBM Cloud is known for its high performance in enterprise applications and big data solutions, as well as its robust cloud security and compliance features. It also integrates well with IBM’s AI tools, making it a good choice for data-driven projects. 

In my experience using IBM Cloud for several data-intensive projects, its machine-learning capabilities were crucial in getting the most out of our data.

5. Kamatera

Kamatera is a flexible cloud provider that offers high-performance cloud hosting and virtual machines with scalability in mind. Its wide range of services includes managed services, object storage, and a variety of cloud solutions. 

Kamatera’s data centers are strategically located worldwide, ensuring fast data access and low latency for users anywhere. Their predictable pricing model is one of its main draws, allowing businesses to scale without worrying about unexpected charges. 

I’ve used Kamatera for international projects, and I appreciate the flexibility it provides, particularly when expanding to new regions. However, new users may find the solution overwhelming due to its complicated interface and the number of options available.

6. Google Cloud

Google Cloud is an excellent alternative to AWS, especially for businesses aiming to leverage data analytics, machine learning, and AI solutions. Google Cloud Platform services include virtual machines, managed databases, and object storage that seamlessly integrate into Google’s ecosystem.

Google Cloud Platform is an ideal cloud platform for businesses looking for performance, scalability, and seamless integration with Google products. 

I’ve worked on several data-driven projects with Google Cloud, and its AI capabilities and machine learning tools significantly impacted the projects’ innovation and efficiency. Google Cloud Platform is more expensive than other cloud service providers, but its performance makes it worth the price.

7. Vultr

Vultr provides cloud hosting with virtual machines and easy-to-use solutions for developers. Its low-cost cloud hosting and scalability make it a great choice for smaller businesses or projects that need cloud service providers offering cost savings. 

Vultr’s cloud platform offers straightforward management, and its set-up speed is one of its key features. 

I’ve used Vultr for small-scale web hosting projects, and its affordability has allowed me to test new ideas without significant investment. However, it lacks high-end features that larger businesses may need.

8. Linode

Linode is a cloud hosting provider that focuses on simplicity and affordability. With its virtual private servers and scalable cloud services, Linode is a popular choice for developers and small businesses.

In addition to its strong performance, its transparent billing makes it easy for businesses to manage their cloud resources. 

While working on several small development projects, I found Linode reliable, easy to use, and affordable. However, it lacks certain advanced features offered by larger cloud service providers.

How We Tested These Services?

We used three key parameters to test and rank the AWS alternatives. I’ll explain these criteria for you to understand how we evaluated each product based on real-world needs.

1. Performance 

When testing the performance of these cloud providers, we focused on how quickly they respond to user requests and how fast they can deploy virtual machines or handle heavy workloads. 

We measured each service’s load time by running tests with different tasks, such as spinning up virtual machines, handling data transfer, and accessing storage. For instance, Google Cloud and Liquid Web had speedy response times, while Vultr performed well for basic tasks but showed slower speeds during heavy usage. 

A good provider needs low latency, which helps ensure that applications run smoothly, especially when handling high-traffic websites or real-time services.

2. Scalability

Scalability refers to how easily you can adjust resources like computing power and storage as your needs change. We tested how the AWS services could handle scaling by adding or removing virtual machines and expanding storage without performance issues. 

Providers like Liquid Web and Digital Ocean excelled in this area, offering seamless scaling with just a few clicks, backed by robust service level agreements (SLAs). These SLAs ensure that as you scale, the service will meet your performance expectations without issues. 

3. Pricing and Value for Money

Pricing is a major factor when choosing a public cloud service, especially for small businesses and startups. We compared the prices of the AWS alternatives for similar resources—such as virtual machines, storage, and bandwidth. We also considered any hidden fees such as data transfer costs. 

For example, Digital Ocean and Vultr offered cost-effective solutions for entry-level users, while Google Cloud and IBM Cloud, though more expensive, had extensive features suited for larger projects. 

We looked at how much you get for what you pay, focusing on services that provide solid value while keeping costs reasonable.

Related Articles: 

• Best Cheap Linux VPS
• Cheap Dedicated Server Hosting
• Best Forum Hosting Services

Buyer’s Guide

Here are six points you should consider before deciding on which AWS alternative to buy.

1. Performance and Reliability

When choosing a cloud service, your first consideration is performance. You need a service that can run your applications smoothly and quickly. Look for providers with fast load times, low latency, sufficient data storage, and reliable uptime. 

Services like Liquid Web and Google Cloud provide strong performance and reliability, which make them ideal for crucial applications. With their multi-cloud strategy, these services let businesses use different cloud environments, reducing the risk of problems and ensuring smooth operations.

2. Scalability

Your business needs may grow over time, so scalability is key. You should choose a provider that allows you to easily increase or decrease resources like storage, computing power, and bandwidth without hassle. 

For smaller businesses, select providers that offer good scaling options and ease of use. Larger companies with complex needs may need platforms with more powerful and flexible scaling features.

“A reliable cloud provider not only ensures performance but also offers the flexibility to grow with your business, adapting to changing needs.”
– John Felton, Chief Financial Officer for Amazon Web Service

3. Transparent pricing

Pricing can vary between these AWS alternatives, so it’s important to pick one that fits your budget. Compare the costs for your required services, such as virtual machines, storage, and data transfer. Don’t forget to account for the extra cost entailed by backups, bandwidth, and support. 

Services like Vultr and Digital Ocean are generally cheaper and work well for small-scale projects, whereas bigger cloud platforms like Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform may have a higher price tag but offer more advanced features.

4. Customer Support

Great customer support can save you a lot of headaches when you run into problems. Look for a provider that offers 24/7 support and quick response times. Services like Liquid Web are known for their excellent customer service, ensuring timely help when things go wrong. 

Before you choose your AWS alternative, check their available support options, such as live chat, email, or phone support, and verify whether these options have a sufficiently short response time that works for your operations.

5. Security

Security is another crucial factor in the cloud market, as you don’t want your data or applications to be vulnerable to bad actors. The provider should offer encryption, secure access, and regular security updates. If you’re handling sensitive information, prioritize providers featuring strong security measures to protect your data.

6. Integration Capabilities

Consider how well the cloud service will integrate with your current systems and tools. If you already use certain software, look for providers that can easily integrate with those tools. For instance, Microsoft Azure works seamlessly with Microsoft products, while Google Cloud integrates well with Google’s suite of services. If your business relies on specific software, the cloud infrastructure could significantly impact how quickly and efficiently you can set up your cloud environment.

FAQs

1. How Can I Scale My Cloud Service Easily?

To scale your cloud service easily, choose a provider that offers flexible resources like virtual machines and storage that can be adjusted with a few clicks. A seamless scale-up process makes it convenient to handle fluctuating workloads without disruption to performance.

2. Is Customer Support Important When Choosing a Cloud Service?

Yes, customer support is crucial when choosing a cloud computing provider, especially for businesses that rely on uptime and performance. Look for a provider with 24/7 support, fast response times, and multiple support channels.

3. Can I Use Cloud Services For Data Analytics?

Yes, managed cloud services like Google Cloud Platform and IBM Cloud offer powerful data analytics tools, including machine learning and AI capabilities. These platforms allow you to analyze large datasets, run complex queries, and even integrate data analytics into your applications. 

Which Is the Best AWS Alternative?

The right cloud service provider can provide your business with smooth, scalable, and cost-effective cloud solutions. After reviewing multiple solutions, I think that Liquid Web is the best Amazon Web Services (AWS) alternative for businesses that require reliability, performance, and excellent customer support. It provides tailored cloud solutions, high-performance computing, and an unmatched support team that ensures your applications run smoothly. 

For businesses that need managed services and a higher level of control, Liquid Web offers the perfect balance between performance and customer service. With its predictable, transparent pricing and enterprise-grade features, Liquid Web ensures that businesses can scale without the stress of unexpected costs.

Article by

Matt Diggity

Matt is the founder of Diggity Marketing, LeadSpring, The Search Initiative, The Affiliate Lab, and the Chiang Mai SEO Conference. He actually does SEO too.

Want to rank easier, higher and faster?

Sign up and join 100,000+ other subscribers and get SEO test results sent straight to your inbox.

Register

"One of the most effective SEOs I've ever met"- Cyrus Sheppard

As Seen On...