Helm vs SaltStack: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Helm and SaltStack 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:
Helm
Package manager for Kubernetes applications
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 7.5/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • Helm is the package manager for Kubernetes that simplifies application deployment
- • It uses charts to define, install, and upgrade Kubernetes applications
SaltStack
Infrastructure automation and management
Best for you if:
- • You need automation features specifically
- • SaltStack is an infrastructure automation and configuration management tool
- • It manages servers at scale with event-driven automation
| At a Glance |  Helm | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Automation |
Rating | 90/100 | 75/100 |
| Feature | Helm | SaltStack |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 90 | 75 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentCI/CD | AutomationWorkflow Automation |
How Helm and SaltStack Compare
Helm
Package manager for Kubernetes applications
Free · 90/100 score
SaltStack
Infrastructure automation and management
Free tier available · 75/100 score
Helm is a hosting & deployment tool. SaltStack is in automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Helm is free. SaltStack is freemium.
Go with: Helm
Want the highest-rated option?
Helm: 90/100. SaltStack: 75/100.
Go with: Helm
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Helm
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Helm is free. SaltStack is freemium. Go with Helm if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Helm is a hosting & deployment tool. SaltStack is in automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Helm scores higher: 90/100 vs 75/100.
Key Takeaways
Helm
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 75
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
SaltStack
- Better fit for automation
The Bottom Line
Helm (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Helm or SaltStack better?
Helm scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Helm is free and SaltStack is freemium.
What are Helm and SaltStack used for?
Helm: Package manager for Kubernetes applications. SaltStack: Infrastructure automation and management.
What does Helm cost vs SaltStack?
Helm is completely free. SaltStack is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.