SST vs Begin: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between SST and Begin 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:
SST
Open-source framework for deploying full-stack apps on AWS
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 7.6/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • SST is an open-source framework for building serverless apps on AWS
- • It provides live Lambda development with infrastructure as code
Begin
Deploy serverless apps instantly with minimal config
Best for you if:
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • Begin is a platform for building and deploying cloud functions and APIs
- • It simplifies serverless development with a focus on developer experience
| At a Glance |  SST |  Begin |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | Hosting & Deployment |
Rating | 84/100 | 76/100 |
| Feature | SST | Begin |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 76 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendHosting & Deployment | Hosting & DeploymentCI/CD |
How SST and Begin Compare
SST
Open-source framework for deploying full-stack apps on AWS
Free · 84/100 score
Begin
Deploy serverless apps instantly with minimal config
Free tier available · 76/100 score
SST is a low-code backend tool. Begin is in hosting & deployment.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
SST is free. Begin is freemium.
Go with: SST
Want the highest-rated option?
SST: 84/100. Begin: 76/100.
Go with: SST
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: SST
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
SST is free. Begin is freemium. Go with SST if free matters most.
What's your use case?
SST is a low-code backend tool. Begin is in hosting & deployment. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
SST scores higher: 84/100 vs 76/100.
Key Takeaways
SST
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 76
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Begin
- Better fit for hosting & deployment
The Bottom Line
SST (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SST or Begin better?
SST scores 84/100 in our evaluation. SST is free and Begin is freemium.
What are SST and Begin used for?
SST: Open-source framework for deploying full-stack apps on AWS. Begin: Deploy serverless apps instantly with minimal config.
What does SST cost vs Begin?
SST is completely free. Begin is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.