Containerd vs Docker: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Containerd and Docker 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Containerd
Industry-standard container runtime
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • containerd is an industry-standard container runtime used by Docker and Kubernetes
- • It manages the complete container lifecycle from image transfer to execution
Docker
Container platform for developers
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.2/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • You need terminal tools features specifically
- • Container platform with free Personal tier and Pro at $9/month (2024 pricing)
- • Desktop, Hub, Build Cloud, Scout, and Testcontainers now unified in all plans
| At a Glance |  Docker | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Terminal Tools |
Rating | 86/100 | 92/100 |
| Feature | Containerd | Docker |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 92 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentContainer Orchestration | Terminal ToolsHosting & Deployment |
How Containerd and Docker Compare
Containerd
Industry-standard container runtime
Free · 86/100 score
Docker
Container platform for developers
Free tier available · 92/100 score
Containerd is a hosting & deployment tool. Docker is in terminal tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Containerd is free. Docker is freemium.
Go with: Containerd
Want the highest-rated option?
Containerd: 86/100. Docker: 92/100.
Go with: Docker
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Docker
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Containerd is free. Docker is freemium. Go with Containerd if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Containerd is a hosting & deployment tool. Docker is in terminal tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Docker scores higher: 92/100 vs 86/100.
Key Takeaways
Docker
- Higher score: 92/100 vs 86
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Containerd
- Completely free
- Better fit for hosting & deployment
The Bottom Line
Docker (92/100) is our pick. That said, Containerd is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Containerd or Docker better?
Docker scores 92/100 in our evaluation. Containerd is free and Docker is freemium.
What are Containerd and Docker used for?
Containerd: Industry-standard container runtime. Docker: Container platform for developers.
What does Containerd cost vs Docker?
Containerd is completely free. Docker is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.