Terragrunt vs CDKTF: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Terragrunt 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:
Terragrunt
Terraform wrapper for DRY configurations
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need workflow automation features specifically
- • Terragrunt is a thin wrapper for Terraform that keeps configurations DRY
- • It manages multiple Terraform modules with reduced duplication
CDKTF
Define Terraform infrastructure using programming languages
Best for you if:
- • You need automation features specifically
- • CDKTF lets you define Terraform infrastructure using familiar programming languages
- • It synthesizes TypeScript, Python, Go, or C# code into Terraform configurations
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Workflow Automation | Automation |
Rating | 84/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Terragrunt | CDKTF |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Workflow AutomationCI/CD | AutomationCI/CD |
How Terragrunt and CDKTF Compare
Terragrunt
Terraform wrapper for DRY configurations
Free · 84/100 score
CDKTF
Define Terraform infrastructure using programming languages
Free · 80/100 score
Terragrunt is a workflow automation tool. CDKTF is in automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Terragrunt
Want the highest-rated option?
Terragrunt: 84/100. CDKTF: 80/100.
Go with: Terragrunt
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Terragrunt
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Terragrunt is a workflow automation tool. CDKTF is in automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Terragrunt scores higher: 84/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Terragrunt
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 80
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
CDKTF
- Better fit for automation
The Bottom Line
Terragrunt (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Terragrunt or CDKTF better?
Terragrunt scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Terragrunt and CDKTF used for?
Terragrunt: Terraform wrapper for DRY configurations. CDKTF: Define Terraform infrastructure using programming languages.
What does Terragrunt cost vs CDKTF?
Terragrunt is completely free. CDKTF is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.