AWS API Gateway vs Kong: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between AWS API Gateway and Kong comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
AWS API Gateway
API management by AWS
Best for you if:
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • You need api management by aws
- • You need professional-grade features
Kong
API gateway and platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Kong is an API gateway and platform for managing, securing, and monitoring APIs
- • It provides rate limiting, authentication, and traffic control for microservices
| At a Glance |  AWS API Gateway |  Kong |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | AWS API Gateway | Kong |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 138 | 0 |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendInfrastructure as Code | API ToolsHosting & Deployment |
Understanding the Differences
Both AWS API Gateway and Kong solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.AWS API Gateway positions itself as "api management by aws" while Kongfocuses on "api gateway and platform". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose AWS API Gateway
AWS API Gateway makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution.
When to Choose Kong
Kong is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool. Scoring 84/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Kong won't cost you anything to start, which is exactly what early-stage teams need.
We'd pick: Kong
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Kong is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Kong
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. AWS API Gateway is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: AWS API Gateway
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Want to test first? Kong has a free tier to get you started.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Kong higher (84/100). But the community has upvoted AWS API Gateway more (138 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Kong Does Better
- Higher overall score (84/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider AWS API Gateway If
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Kong (84/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Kong scores higher in our analysis, but AWS API Gateway might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AWS API Gateway or Kong better?
Based on our analysis, Kong scores higher with 84/100. AWS API Gateway ispaid while Kong is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from AWS API Gateway to Kong easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do AWS API Gateway and Kong offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. AWS API Gateway is paid with potential trial.Kong is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.