AWS vs Heroku: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between AWS and Heroku 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
The cloud infrastructure that powers half the internet
Best for you if:
- • The largest cloud platform
- • 200+ services for any workload
Heroku
The original easy deployment platform, now owned by Salesforce
Best for you if:
- • Platform as a service that scales with you
- • Deploy apps with git push heroku main
| At a Glance |  AWS |  Heroku |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Usage-based/moPay-as-you-go | $5/monthEco |
Best For | Cloud & Infrastructure | Cloud & Infrastructure |
Rating | - | - |
Choose AWS or Heroku?
Choose AWS if
The cloud infrastructure that powers half the internet
- Most comprehensive cloud platform
- Global infrastructure (200+ services)
- Industry standard for enterprise
Choose Heroku if
The original easy deployment platform, now owned by Salesforce
- Easiest platform for deploying apps
- Git-based deployment workflow
- Large add-on marketplace
| Feature | AWS | Heroku |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.4/5 17,730 reviews | ★4.6/5 326 reviews |
| Categories | Cloud & InfrastructureHosting & Deployment | Cloud & InfrastructureHosting & Deployment |
In-Depth Analysis
AWS
The cloud infrastructure that powers half the internet
Strengths
- +Most comprehensive cloud platform
- +Global infrastructure (200+ services)
- +Industry standard for enterprise
- +Excellent documentation
- +Strong security and compliance
Weaknesses
- -Complex pricing model
- -Steep learning curve
- -Bill surprises common
- -UI dated and confusing
- -Vendor lock-in risk
Key features
Heroku
The original easy deployment platform, now owned by Salesforce
Strengths
- +Easiest platform for deploying apps
- +Git-based deployment workflow
- +Large add-on marketplace
- +Great for prototypes and small projects
- +Managed Postgres included
Weaknesses
- -No more free tier (removed in 2022)
- -Expensive at scale compared to alternatives
- -Limited customization options
- -Cold starts on lower tiers
- -Performance ceiling for high-traffic apps
Key features
Pricing: AWS vs Heroku
| Plan | AWS | Heroku |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Free Tier | $5 month Eco |
| Tier 2 | Usage-based Pay-as-you-go | $7 month per dyno Basic |
| Tier 3 | Up to 72% off Savings Plans | $25 month per dyno Standard-1x |
| Tier 4 | N/A | $50 month per dyno Standard-2x |
| Tier 5 | N/A | $250 month per dyno Performance-M |
| Tier 6 | N/A | $500 month per dyno Performance-L |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on AWS pricing and Heroku pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: AWS
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: AWS
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: AWS
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are cloud & infrastructure tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
AWS
- Larger review base (17,730 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
Heroku
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 4.4/5
The Bottom Line
AWS is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AWS or Heroku better?
AWS is rated in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are AWS and Heroku used for?
AWS: The cloud infrastructure that powers half the internet. Heroku: The original easy deployment platform, now owned by Salesforce.
What does AWS cost vs Heroku?
AWS is a paid tool. Heroku is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.