Kubernetes vs Docker: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Kubernetes and Docker 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:
Kubernetes
Container orchestration platform
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • The industry standard for container orchestration at scale
- • Declarative configuration with automatic healing and scaling
Docker
Container platform for developers
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.2/10 vs 9.0/10)
- • You need terminal tools features specifically
- • Container platform with free Personal tier and Pro at $9/month (2024 pricing)
- • Desktop, Hub, Build Cloud, Scout, and Testcontainers now unified in all plans
| At a Glance |  Kubernetes |  Docker |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Terminal Tools |
Rating | 90/100 | 92/100 |
| Feature | Kubernetes | Docker |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 90 | 92 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentCI/CD | Terminal ToolsHosting & Deployment |
How Kubernetes and Docker Compare
Kubernetes
Container orchestration platform
Free · 90/100 score
Docker
Container platform for developers
Free tier available · 92/100 score
Kubernetes is a hosting & deployment tool. Docker is in terminal tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Kubernetes is free. Docker is freemium.
Go with: Kubernetes
Want the highest-rated option?
Kubernetes: 90/100. Docker: 92/100.
Go with: Docker
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Docker
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Kubernetes is free. Docker is freemium. Go with Kubernetes if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Kubernetes is a hosting & deployment tool. Docker is in terminal tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Docker scores higher: 92/100 vs 90/100.
Key Takeaways
Docker
- Higher score: 92/100 vs 90
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Kubernetes
- Completely free
- Better fit for hosting & deployment
The Bottom Line
Docker (92/100) is our pick. That said, Kubernetes is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kubernetes or Docker better?
Docker scores 92/100 in our evaluation. Kubernetes is free and Docker is freemium.
What are Kubernetes and Docker used for?
Kubernetes: Container orchestration platform. Docker: Container platform for developers.
What does Kubernetes cost vs Docker?
Kubernetes is completely free. Docker is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.