MicroK8s vs Minikube: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between MicroK8s and Minikube 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:
MicroK8s
Minimal Kubernetes distribution by Canonical
Best for you if:
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • MicroK8s is a lightweight Kubernetes distribution from Canonical
- • It installs as a single package for development and edge computing
Minikube
Local Kubernetes for development
Best for you if:
- • You need terminal tools features specifically
- • Minikube is a tool for running Kubernetes locally for development
- • It creates a single-node cluster on your machine for testing and learning
| At a Glance |  MicroK8s |  Minikube |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Terminal Tools |
Rating | 82/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | MicroK8s | Minikube |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentCI/CD | Terminal ToolsHosting & Deployment |
How MicroK8s and Minikube Compare
MicroK8s
Minimal Kubernetes distribution by Canonical
Free · 82/100 score
Minikube
Local Kubernetes for development
Free · 82/100 score
MicroK8s is a hosting & deployment tool. Minikube is in terminal tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: MicroK8s
Want the highest-rated option?
MicroK8s: 82/100. Minikube: 82/100.
Go with: MicroK8s
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: MicroK8s
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
MicroK8s is a hosting & deployment tool. Minikube is in terminal tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Both score 82/100.
Key Takeaways
MicroK8s
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Minikube
- Better fit for terminal tools
The Bottom Line
MicroK8s (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MicroK8s or Minikube better?
MicroK8s scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are MicroK8s and Minikube used for?
MicroK8s: Minimal Kubernetes distribution by Canonical. Minikube: Local Kubernetes for development.
What does MicroK8s cost vs Minikube?
MicroK8s is completely free. Minikube is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.