Podman vs Docker: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Podman and Docker 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:
Podman
Daemonless container management
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Podman is a daemonless container engine compatible with Docker
- • It runs OCI containers without requiring a daemon or root access
Docker
Container platform for developers
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.2/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • Container platform with free Personal tier and Pro at $9/month (2024 pricing)
- • Desktop, Hub, Build Cloud, Scout, and Testcontainers now unified in all plans
| At a Glance |  Podman |  Docker |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Terminal Tools | Terminal Tools |
Rating | 84/100 | 92/100 |
| Feature | Podman | Docker |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 92 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Terminal ToolsHosting & Deployment | Terminal ToolsHosting & Deployment |
How Podman and Docker Compare
Podman
Daemonless container management
Free · 84/100 score
Docker
Container platform for developers
Free tier available · 92/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Podman is free. Docker is freemium.
Go with: Podman
Want the highest-rated option?
Podman: 84/100. Docker: 92/100.
Go with: Docker
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Docker
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Podman is free. Docker is freemium. Go with Podman if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are terminal tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Docker scores higher: 92/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Docker
- Higher score: 92/100 vs 84
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Podman
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Docker (92/100) is our pick. That said, Podman is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Podman or Docker better?
Docker scores 92/100 in our evaluation. Podman is free and Docker is freemium.
What are Podman and Docker used for?
Podman: Daemonless container management. Docker: Container platform for developers.
What does Podman cost vs Docker?
Podman is completely free. Docker is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.