Github Pages vs Gatsby: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Github Pages and Gatsby 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:
Github Pages
Static site hosting by GitHub
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.4/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • GitHub Pages is a static site hosting service built into GitHub
- • It serves websites directly from repositories with custom domains and HTTPS
Gatsby
Build fast, secure, and powerful web experiences with a React-based, open-source framework.
Best for you if:
- • You need static site generators features specifically
- • React-based framework for building fast web experiences.
- • Unifies content and APIs with a GraphQL data layer.
| At a Glance |  Github Pages | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Static Site Generators |
Rating | 74/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Github Pages | Gatsby |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 74 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentStatic Site Generators | Static Site GeneratorsGraphQL Tools |
Understanding the Differences
Both Github Pages and Gatsby solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Github Pages positions itself as "static site hosting by github" while Gatsbyfocuses on "build fast, secure, and powerful web experiences with a react-based, open-source framework.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Github Pages
Github Pages makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 74/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Gatsby
Gatsby is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Github Pages lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Github Pages
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Github Pages handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Github Pages
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Github Pages
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Github Pages, upgrade when you're ready.
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 Github Pages higher (74/100). But the community has upvoted Gatsby more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Github Pages Does Better
- Higher overall score (74/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Gatsby If
- You want to start free and scale later
- 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 Github Pages (74/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Github Pages scores higher in our analysis, but Gatsby 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 Github Pages or Gatsby better?
Based on our analysis, Github Pages scores higher with 74/100. Github Pages isfreemium while Gatsby 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 Github Pages to Gatsby 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 Github Pages and Gatsby offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Github Pages is freemium with a free tier.Gatsby is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.