Linode vs Hetzner: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Linode and Hetzner 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:
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
Hetzner
Affordable cloud and dedicated servers
Best for you if:
- • Hetzner is a European cloud and hosting provider known for excellent price-performance
- • It offers dedicated servers, cloud instances, and colocation at competitive prices
| At a Glance |  Linode |  Hetzner |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $5/moShared CPU | $3.49/moCost-Optimized |
Best For | Cloud & Infrastructure | Cloud & Infrastructure |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Linode or Hetzner?
Choose Linode if
Cloud computing with simple and predictable pricing
- Affordable VPS hosting
- Simple pricing
- Good performance
Choose Hetzner if
Affordable cloud and dedicated servers
- Extremely affordable pricing
- Good performance
- European data centers
| Feature | Linode | Hetzner |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 428 reviews | ★4.4/5 12 reviews |
| Categories | Cloud & InfrastructureHosting & Deployment | Cloud & InfrastructureHosting & Deployment |
In-Depth Analysis
Linode
Cloud computing with simple and predictable pricing
Strengths
- +Affordable VPS hosting
- +Simple pricing
- +Good performance
- +Akamai backing now
- +Good support
Weaknesses
- -Limited managed services
- -Smaller ecosystem
- -Fewer features than competitors
- -Some features still catching up
- -Less enterprise adoption
Key features
Hetzner
Affordable cloud and dedicated servers
Strengths
- +Extremely affordable pricing
- +Good performance
- +European data centers
- +Dedicated servers available
- +Good for cost-conscious
Weaknesses
- -Limited regions (Europe focused)
- -Support can be slow
- -Less managed services
- -Some interface quirks
- -Not for enterprise compliance
Key features
Pricing: Linode vs Hetzner
| Plan | Linode | Hetzner |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $5 Shared CPU | $3.49 Cost-Optimized |
| Tier 2 | $30 Dedicated CPU | $4.99 Regular Performance |
| Tier 3 | $60 High Memory | $12.49 Dedicated |
| Tier 4 | N/A | $0.044/GB Block Storage |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Linode pricing and Hetzner pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Hetzner
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Linode
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Hetzner
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 cloud & infrastructure tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Hetzner
- Our pick for this comparison
Linode
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 4.4/5
- Larger review base (428 reviews)
The Bottom Line
Hetzner is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Linode or Hetzner better?
Hetzner is rated in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Linode and Hetzner used for?
Linode: Cloud computing with simple and predictable pricing. Hetzner: Affordable cloud and dedicated servers.
What does Linode cost vs Hetzner?
Linode is a paid tool. Hetzner is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.