OpenTofu vs CDKTF: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between OpenTofu and CDKTF 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:
OpenTofu
Open-source Terraform fork
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need infrastructure as code features specifically
- • OpenTofu is an open-source fork of Terraform for infrastructure as code
- • It provides a community-driven alternative following Terraform's license change
CDKTF
Define Terraform infrastructure using programming languages
Best for you if:
- • You need automation features specifically
- • CDKTF lets you define Terraform infrastructure using familiar programming languages
- • It synthesizes TypeScript, Python, Go, or C# code into Terraform configurations
| At a Glance |  OpenTofu | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Infrastructure as Code | Automation |
Rating | 85/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | OpenTofu | CDKTF |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Infrastructure as Code | AutomationCI/CD |
How OpenTofu and CDKTF Compare
OpenTofu
Open-source Terraform fork
Free · 85/100 score
CDKTF
Define Terraform infrastructure using programming languages
Free · 80/100 score
OpenTofu is a infrastructure as code tool. CDKTF is in automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: OpenTofu
Want the highest-rated option?
OpenTofu: 85/100. CDKTF: 80/100.
Go with: OpenTofu
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: OpenTofu
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?
OpenTofu is a infrastructure as code tool. CDKTF is in automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
OpenTofu scores higher: 85/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
OpenTofu
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 80
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
CDKTF
- Better fit for automation
The Bottom Line
OpenTofu (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenTofu or CDKTF better?
OpenTofu scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are OpenTofu and CDKTF used for?
OpenTofu: Open-source Terraform fork. CDKTF: Define Terraform infrastructure using programming languages.
What does OpenTofu cost vs CDKTF?
OpenTofu is completely free. CDKTF is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.