Helium vs K3s: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Helium and K3s 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 22, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Helium
Rebuilding global connectivity with a decentralized, people-owned wireless network.
Best for you if:
- • You need web3 infrastructure features specifically
- • Builds a global, decentralized wireless network using community-owned Hotspots.
- • Hotspot owners earn HNT cryptocurrency by providing network coverage.
K3s
Lightweight Kubernetes for edge and IoT
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need iot platforms features specifically
- • K3s is a lightweight Kubernetes distribution for edge, IoT, and resource-constrained environments
- • It provides full Kubernetes functionality in a single binary under 100MB
| At a Glance |  Helium | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Web3 Infrastructure | IoT Platforms |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Helium | K3s |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Web3 InfrastructureIoT Platforms | IoT PlatformsEdge Computing |
How Helium and K3s Compare
Helium
Rebuilding global connectivity with a decentralized, people-owned wireless network.
Free
K3s
Lightweight Kubernetes for edge and IoT
Free · 86/100 score
Helium is a web3 infrastructure tool. K3s is in iot platforms.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Helium
Want the highest-rated option?
K3s scores 86/100. Helium is unrated.
Go with: K3s
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: K3s
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?
Helium is a web3 infrastructure tool. K3s is in iot platforms. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
K3s
- Higher score: 86/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Helium
- Better fit for web3 infrastructure
The Bottom Line
K3s (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Helium or K3s better?
K3s scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Helium and K3s used for?
Helium: Rebuilding global connectivity with a decentralized, people-owned wireless network.. K3s: Lightweight Kubernetes for edge and IoT.
What does Helium cost vs K3s?
Helium is completely free. K3s is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.