Linode vs DigitalOcean: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Linode and DigitalOcean 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:
Linode
Cloud computing with simple and predictable pricing
Best for you if:
- • Linode is a cloud computing provider offering virtual private servers
- • It provides simple, affordable compute, storage, and Kubernetes hosting
DigitalOcean
Simple cloud infrastructure
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • Developer-friendly cloud infrastructure
- • Simpler than AWS with transparent pricing
| At a Glance |  Linode |  DigitalOcean |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Hosting & Deployment |
Rating | 82/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Linode | DigitalOcean |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentInfrastructure as Code | Hosting & DeploymentContainer Orchestration |
How Linode and DigitalOcean Compare
Linode
Cloud computing with simple and predictable pricing
Paid · 82/100 score
DigitalOcean
Simple cloud infrastructure
Paid · 85/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: DigitalOcean
Want the highest-rated option?
Linode: 82/100. DigitalOcean: 85/100.
Go with: DigitalOcean
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: DigitalOcean
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are hosting & deployment tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
DigitalOcean scores higher: 85/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
DigitalOcean
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 82
- Our pick for this comparison
Linode
The Bottom Line
DigitalOcean (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Linode or DigitalOcean better?
DigitalOcean scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Linode and DigitalOcean used for?
Linode: Cloud computing with simple and predictable pricing. DigitalOcean: Simple cloud infrastructure.
What does Linode cost vs DigitalOcean?
Linode is a paid tool. DigitalOcean is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.