ImageKit vs Cloudinary: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between ImageKit and Cloudinary 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:
ImageKit
Image CDN with real-time optimization
Best for you if:
- • You need video compression features specifically
- • ImageKit is an image CDN and media management service for web optimization
- • It provides real-time image resizing, optimization, and delivery through global CDN
Cloudinary
Image and video management
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need image editing features specifically
- • Media management and delivery platform
- • Image and video optimization on the fly
| At a Glance |  ImageKit |  Cloudinary |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Video Compression | Image Editing |
Rating | 84/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | ImageKit | Cloudinary |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Video CompressionImage Editing | Image EditingCDN |
How ImageKit and Cloudinary Compare
ImageKit
Image CDN with real-time optimization
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Cloudinary
Image and video management
Free tier available · 88/100 score
ImageKit is a video compression tool. Cloudinary is in image editing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: ImageKit
Want the highest-rated option?
ImageKit: 84/100. Cloudinary: 88/100.
Go with: Cloudinary
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Cloudinary
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
ImageKit is a video compression tool. Cloudinary is in image editing. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Cloudinary scores higher: 88/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Cloudinary
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 84
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
ImageKit
- Better fit for video compression
The Bottom Line
Cloudinary (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ImageKit or Cloudinary better?
Cloudinary scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are ImageKit and Cloudinary used for?
ImageKit: Image CDN with real-time optimization. Cloudinary: Image and video management.
What does ImageKit cost vs Cloudinary?
ImageKit is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Cloudinary is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.