OpenTofu vs Terraform: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between OpenTofu and Terraform 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 need something completely free
- • 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
Terraform
Infrastructure as code
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.5/10)
- • You need automation features specifically
- • The standard tool for infrastructure as code across any cloud
- • Declarative configuration with plan-apply workflow
| At a Glance |  OpenTofu |  Terraform |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Infrastructure as Code | Automation |
Rating | 85/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | OpenTofu | Terraform |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 90 |
| 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 Terraform Compare
OpenTofu
Open-source Terraform fork
Free · 85/100 score
Terraform
Infrastructure as code
Free tier available · 90/100 score
OpenTofu is a infrastructure as code tool. Terraform is in automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
OpenTofu is free. Terraform is freemium.
Go with: OpenTofu
Want the highest-rated option?
OpenTofu: 85/100. Terraform: 90/100.
Go with: Terraform
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Terraform
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
OpenTofu is free. Terraform is freemium. Go with OpenTofu if free matters most.
What's your use case?
OpenTofu is a infrastructure as code tool. Terraform is in automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Terraform scores higher: 90/100 vs 85/100.
Key Takeaways
Terraform
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 85
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
OpenTofu
- Completely free
- Better fit for infrastructure as code
The Bottom Line
Terraform (90/100) is our pick. That said, OpenTofu is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenTofu or Terraform better?
Terraform scores 90/100 in our evaluation. OpenTofu is free and Terraform is freemium.
What are OpenTofu and Terraform used for?
OpenTofu: Open-source Terraform fork. Terraform: Infrastructure as code.
What does OpenTofu cost vs Terraform?
OpenTofu is completely free. Terraform is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.