OpenShift vs Kubernetes: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between OpenShift and Kubernetes 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:
OpenShift
Enterprise Kubernetes platform by Red Hat
Best for you if:
- • OpenShift is Red Hat's enterprise Kubernetes platform
- • It provides container orchestration with developer tools and security features
Kubernetes
Container orchestration platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • The industry standard for container orchestration at scale
- • Declarative configuration with automatic healing and scaling
| At a Glance |  OpenShift |  Kubernetes |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Hosting & Deployment |
Rating | 84/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | OpenShift | Kubernetes |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentContainer Orchestration | Hosting & DeploymentCI/CD |
How OpenShift and Kubernetes Compare
OpenShift
Enterprise Kubernetes platform by Red Hat
Paid · 84/100 score
Kubernetes
Container orchestration platform
Free · 90/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Kubernetes is free. OpenShift is paid.
Go with: Kubernetes
Want the highest-rated option?
OpenShift: 84/100. Kubernetes: 90/100.
Go with: Kubernetes
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Kubernetes
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
OpenShift is paid. Kubernetes is free. Go with Kubernetes if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are hosting & deployment tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Kubernetes scores higher: 90/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Kubernetes
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 84
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
OpenShift
The Bottom Line
Kubernetes (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenShift or Kubernetes better?
Kubernetes scores 90/100 in our evaluation. OpenShift is paid and Kubernetes is free.
What are OpenShift and Kubernetes used for?
OpenShift: Enterprise Kubernetes platform by Red Hat. Kubernetes: Container orchestration platform.
What does OpenShift cost vs Kubernetes?
OpenShift is a paid tool. Kubernetes is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.