SaltStack vs Terraform: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between SaltStack 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:
SaltStack
Infrastructure automation and management
Best for you if:
- • SaltStack is an infrastructure automation and configuration management tool
- • It manages servers at scale with event-driven automation
Terraform
Infrastructure as code
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 7.5/10)
- • The standard tool for infrastructure as code across any cloud
- • Declarative configuration with plan-apply workflow
| At a Glance |  Terraform | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Automation | Automation |
Rating | 75/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | SaltStack | Terraform |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 75 | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AutomationWorkflow Automation | AutomationCI/CD |
How SaltStack and Terraform Compare
SaltStack
Infrastructure automation and management
Free tier available · 75/100 score
Terraform
Infrastructure as code
Free tier available · 90/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: SaltStack
Want the highest-rated option?
SaltStack: 75/100. 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?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are automation tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Terraform scores higher: 90/100 vs 75/100.
Key Takeaways
Terraform
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 75
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
SaltStack
The Bottom Line
Terraform (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SaltStack or Terraform better?
Terraform scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are SaltStack and Terraform used for?
SaltStack: Infrastructure automation and management. Terraform: Infrastructure as code.
What does SaltStack cost vs Terraform?
SaltStack is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Terraform is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.