Helm vs Terraform: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Helm and Terraform 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 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
Terraform
Infrastructure as code
Best for you if:
- • You need automation features specifically
- • The standard tool for infrastructure as code across any cloud
- • Declarative configuration with plan-apply workflow
| At a Glance |  Helm |  Terraform |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Automation |
Rating | 90/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | Helm | Terraform |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 90 | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentCI/CD | AutomationCI/CD |
How Helm and Terraform Compare
Helm
Package manager for Kubernetes applications
Free · 90/100 score
Terraform
Infrastructure as code
Free tier available · 90/100 score
Helm is a hosting & deployment tool. Terraform is in automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Helm is free. Terraform is freemium.
Go with: Helm
Want the highest-rated option?
Helm: 90/100. Terraform: 90/100.
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. Terraform is freemium. Go with Helm if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Helm is a hosting & deployment tool. Terraform is in automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Both score 90/100.
Key Takeaways
Helm
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Terraform
- Better fit for automation
The Bottom Line
Helm (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Helm or Terraform better?
Helm scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Helm is free and Terraform is freemium.
What are Helm and Terraform used for?
Helm: Package manager for Kubernetes applications. Terraform: Infrastructure as code.
What does Helm cost vs Terraform?
Helm is completely free. Terraform is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.