Heroku vs AWS SageMaker: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Heroku 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:
Heroku
The original easy deployment platform, now owned by Salesforce
Best for you if:
- • You need cloud & infrastructure features specifically
AWS SageMaker
AWS machine learning
Best for you if:
- • You need ai & automation features specifically
| At a Glance |  Heroku |  AWS SageMaker |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Cloud & Infrastructure | AI & Automation |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Heroku | AWS SageMaker |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | ★★★★★3.3 |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 192 | 156 |
| Categories | Cloud & InfrastructureDevOps | AI & AutomationDeveloper Tools |
Understanding the Differences
Both Heroku and AWS SageMaker solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Heroku positions itself as "the original easy deployment platform, now owned by salesforce" while AWS SageMakerfocuses on "aws machine learning". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Heroku
Heroku makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution.
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. AWS SageMaker is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: AWS SageMaker
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Heroku is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: Heroku
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Both are paid tools. If money isn't the issue, go with Heroku—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 Heroku higher (/100). But the community has upvoted Heroku more (192 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Heroku Does Better
- More community upvotes
- 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 Heroku. But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Heroku 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 Heroku or AWS SageMaker better?
Based on our analysis, Heroku scores higher with high/100. Heroku 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 Heroku 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 Heroku and AWS SageMaker offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Heroku is paid with potential trial.AWS SageMaker is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.