Google Vertex AI vs AWS SageMaker: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Google Vertex AI and AWS SageMaker 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:
Google Vertex AI
Unified AI platform for ML development
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.5/10)
- • Google Vertex AI is a unified ML platform for building, deploying, and managing AI models
- • It provides AutoML, custom training, model registry, and deployment to endpoints
AWS SageMaker
AWS machine learning
Best for you if:
- • ML model building
- • Scale training and deployment
| At a Glance |  Google Vertex AI |  AWS SageMaker |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | AI Model Deployment | AI Model Deployment |
Rating | 86/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Google Vertex AI | AWS SageMaker |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AI Model DeploymentAI Fine-Tuning | AI Model DeploymentAI Data Labeling |
Understanding the Differences
Both Google Vertex AI and AWS SageMaker solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Google Vertex AI positions itself as "unified ai platform for ml development" while AWS SageMakerfocuses on "aws machine learning". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Google Vertex AI
Google Vertex AI makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution. With a score of 86/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose AWS SageMaker
AWS SageMaker is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Neither is free, but both have their value. Test them both and see which clicks.
We'd pick: AWS SageMaker
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Google Vertex AI handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Google Vertex AI
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Google Vertex AI is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: Google Vertex AI
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Both are paid tools. If money isn't the issue, go with Google Vertex AI—it scored higher.
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 Google Vertex AI higher (86/100). But the community has upvoted AWS SageMaker more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Google Vertex AI Does Better
- Higher overall score (86/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider AWS SageMaker If
- 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 Google Vertex AI (86/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Google Vertex AI scores higher in our analysis, but AWS SageMaker 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 Google Vertex AI or AWS SageMaker better?
Based on our analysis, Google Vertex AI scores higher with 86/100. Google Vertex AI ispaid while AWS SageMaker is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Google Vertex AI to AWS SageMaker 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 Google Vertex AI and AWS SageMaker offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Google Vertex AI is paid with potential trial.AWS SageMaker is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.