Systeme.io vs Cloudways: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Systeme.io and Cloudways 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Systeme.io
All-in-one marketing platform
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need marketing automation features specifically
- • You need all-in-one marketing platform
- • You want to start free and upgrade later
Cloudways
Managed cloud hosting platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • Managed cloud hosting from $11/month on DigitalOcean to $37/month on Google Cloud
- • Pay-as-you-go with free SSL, backups, staging, and 24/7 support across all plans
| At a Glance |  Cloudways | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Marketing Automation | Hosting & Deployment |
Rating | —/100 | 70/100 |
| Feature | Systeme.io | Cloudways |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 70 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 105 | 0 |
| Categories | Marketing AutomationLanding Pages | Hosting & DeploymentVPS & Servers |
Understanding the Differences
Both Systeme.io and Cloudways solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Systeme.io positions itself as "all-in-one marketing platform" while Cloudwaysfocuses on "managed cloud hosting platform". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Systeme.io
Systeme.io makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution.
When to Choose Cloudways
Cloudways is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool. Scoring 70/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Systeme.io lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Systeme.io
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Cloudways is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Cloudways
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Cloudways takes enterprise seriously.
We'd pick: Cloudways
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Systeme.io, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Cloudways higher (70/100). But the community has upvoted Systeme.io more (105 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Cloudways Does Better
- Higher overall score (70/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Systeme.io If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Cloudways (70/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Cloudways scores higher in our analysis, but Systeme.io might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Systeme.io or Cloudways better?
Based on our analysis, Cloudways scores higher with 70/100. Systeme.io isfreemium while Cloudways is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Systeme.io to Cloudways easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Systeme.io and Cloudways offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Systeme.io is freemium with a free tier.Cloudways is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.