Dokku vs Ploi: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Dokku and Ploi 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:
Dokku
Docker-powered PaaS
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.0/10 vs 7.3/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • Dokku is a lightweight PaaS that lets you deploy apps with git push on your own servers
- • It provides Heroku-like deployments using Docker containers on any Linux server
Ploi
Streamlined server management for developers, offering rapid deployment and optimized infrastructure.
Best for you if:
- • Automates server provisioning and configuration in minutes.
- • Provides optimized software stacks, security, and maintenance for web applications.
| At a Glance |  Dokku |  Ploi |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Hosting & Deployment |
Rating | 80/100 | 73/100 |
| Feature | Dokku | Ploi |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 80 | 73 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentCI/CD | Hosting & DeploymentCI/CD |
How Dokku and Ploi Compare
Dokku
Docker-powered PaaS
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Ploi
Streamlined server management for developers, offering rapid deployment and optimized infrastructure.
Paid · 73/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Dokku has a free tier. Ploi is paid only.
Go with: Dokku
Want the highest-rated option?
Dokku: 80/100. Ploi: 73/100.
Go with: Dokku
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Dokku
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Dokku is freemium. Ploi is paid. Dokku lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are hosting & deployment tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Dokku scores higher: 80/100 vs 73/100.
Key Takeaways
Dokku
- Higher score: 80/100 vs 73
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Ploi
The Bottom Line
Dokku (80/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dokku or Ploi better?
Dokku scores 80/100 in our evaluation. Dokku is freemium and Ploi is paid.
What are Dokku and Ploi used for?
Dokku: Docker-powered PaaS. Ploi: Streamlined server management for developers, offering rapid deployment and optimized infrastructure..
What does Dokku cost vs Ploi?
Dokku is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Ploi is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.