Terraform vs CDKTF: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Terraform and CDKTF 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:
Terraform
Infrastructure as code
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • The standard tool for infrastructure as code across any cloud
- • Declarative configuration with plan-apply workflow
CDKTF
Define Terraform infrastructure using programming languages
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • CDKTF lets you define Terraform infrastructure using familiar programming languages
- • It synthesizes TypeScript, Python, Go, or C# code into Terraform configurations
| At a Glance |  Terraform | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Automation | Automation |
Rating | 90/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Terraform | CDKTF |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | 90 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AutomationCI/CD | AutomationCI/CD |
How Terraform and CDKTF Compare
Terraform
Infrastructure as code
Free tier available · 90/100 score
CDKTF
Define Terraform infrastructure using programming languages
Free · 80/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
CDKTF is free. Terraform is freemium.
Go with: CDKTF
Want the highest-rated option?
Terraform: 90/100. CDKTF: 80/100.
Go with: Terraform
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Terraform
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Terraform is freemium. CDKTF is free. Go with CDKTF if free matters most.
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 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Terraform
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
CDKTF
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Terraform (90/100) is our pick. That said, CDKTF is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Terraform or CDKTF better?
Terraform scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Terraform is freemium and CDKTF is free.
What are Terraform and CDKTF used for?
Terraform: Infrastructure as code. CDKTF: Define Terraform infrastructure using programming languages.
What does Terraform cost vs CDKTF?
Terraform is freemium (free tier + paid plans). CDKTF is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.