Netlify Functions vs Begin: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Netlify Functions and Begin 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:
Netlify Functions
Serverless functions for Netlify sites
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 7.6/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Netlify Functions provides serverless backend capabilities on Netlify
- • It deploys AWS Lambda functions alongside your frontend automatically
Begin
Deploy serverless apps instantly with minimal config
Best for you if:
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • Begin is a platform for building and deploying cloud functions and APIs
- • It simplifies serverless development with a focus on developer experience
| At a Glance |  Netlify Functions |  Begin |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | Hosting & Deployment |
Rating | 85/100 | 76/100 |
| Feature | Netlify Functions | Begin |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 76 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsHosting & Deployment | Hosting & DeploymentCI/CD |
How Netlify Functions and Begin Compare
Netlify Functions
Serverless functions for Netlify sites
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Begin
Deploy serverless apps instantly with minimal config
Free tier available · 76/100 score
Netlify Functions is a api tools tool. Begin is in hosting & deployment.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Netlify Functions
Want the highest-rated option?
Netlify Functions: 85/100. Begin: 76/100.
Go with: Netlify Functions
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Netlify Functions
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?
Netlify Functions is a api tools tool. Begin is in hosting & deployment. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Netlify Functions scores higher: 85/100 vs 76/100.
Key Takeaways
Netlify Functions
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 76
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Begin
- Better fit for hosting & deployment
The Bottom Line
Netlify Functions (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Netlify Functions or Begin better?
Netlify Functions scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Netlify Functions and Begin used for?
Netlify Functions: Serverless functions for Netlify sites. Begin: Deploy serverless apps instantly with minimal config.
What does Netlify Functions cost vs Begin?
Netlify Functions is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Begin is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.