DevSpace vs k9s: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between DevSpace and k9s 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:
DevSpace
Accelerate Kubernetes development and deployment with real-time container updates.
Best for you if:
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • Automates Kubernetes image building and application deployment.
- • Enables real-time code synchronization and hot reloading for faster iterations.
k9s
Terminal UI to manage Kubernetes clusters
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need debugging features specifically
- • k9s is a terminal-based UI for managing Kubernetes clusters interactively
- • It provides a vim-style interface for navigating pods, logs, and cluster resources
| At a Glance |  DevSpace |  k9s |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Debugging |
Rating | —/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | DevSpace | k9s |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentCI/CD | DebuggingTerminal Tools |
How DevSpace and k9s Compare
DevSpace
Accelerate Kubernetes development and deployment with real-time container updates.
Free
k9s
Terminal UI to manage Kubernetes clusters
Free · 88/100 score
DevSpace is a hosting & deployment tool. k9s is in debugging.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: DevSpace
Want the highest-rated option?
k9s scores 88/100. DevSpace is unrated.
Go with: k9s
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: k9s
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
DevSpace is a hosting & deployment tool. k9s is in debugging. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
k9s
- Higher score: 88/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
DevSpace
- Better fit for hosting & deployment
The Bottom Line
k9s (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DevSpace or k9s better?
k9s scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are DevSpace and k9s used for?
DevSpace: Accelerate Kubernetes development and deployment with real-time container updates.. k9s: Terminal UI to manage Kubernetes clusters.
What does DevSpace cost vs k9s?
DevSpace is completely free. k9s is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.