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Pricing, plan names, free plan availability, and trial details are checked against official provider pages before being used in ProPicked scores. Vendor relationships do not change rankings, scores, or recommendations.
Provider Pricing Facts
Provider pricing facts: Linode starts at $5/mo; Hetzner starts at $3.29/mo.
Source and Freshness Note
Source and freshness note: pricing, free-plan, and feature signals are compared from public provider data and updated comparison records. Last checked May 2026.
Linode vs Hetzner: Honest Comparison (2026)
Linode
Simple, affordable, and accessible cloud computing by Akamai
Hetzner
High-performance cloud hosting and dedicated servers at unbeatable prices
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Quick Verdict:
Hetzner wins with 8.8/10 vs 8.4/10. Choose Linode for ease of use. Choose Hetzner for better value for money.
Hetzner wins this comparison with a score of 8.8/10 vs 8.4/10. Linode stands out for clear category fit:Linode is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives., while Hetzner excels at clear category fit:Hetzner is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives.. This is confirmed by our feature analysis where Hetzner also scores higher (7.5/10).
| Feature | Linode | Hetzner |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 |
| Ease of Use | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| Features | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Value for Money | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Customer Support | 8.3/10 | 7.5/10 |
| Free Plan | No | No |
| Starting Price | $5/mo | $3.29/mo |
| Feature Score | 7.4/10 | 7.5/10 |
| Top Strength | Clear category fit:Linode is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives. | Clear category fit:Hetzner is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives. |
| Biggest Weakness | Plan limits still need buyer verification:Always confirm usage caps, seat limits, and renewal pricing on the official provider site before purchasing. | Plan limits still need buyer verification:Always confirm usage caps, seat limits, and renewal pricing on the official provider site before purchasing. |
| Best For | Is Linode free?No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data. | Is Hetzner free?No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data. |
| Winner | Hetzner (8.8/10) | |
Tool A Strengths
- Backed by Akamai global network
- Excellent documentation
- Managed Kubernetes (LKE)
- Managed databases available
- Global data center presence
Tool A Weaknesses
- More expensive than Hetzner
- Fewer European locations
- No dedicated server options
- Transition from Linode branding
Tool B Strengths
- Extremely competitive pricing
- Powerful dedicated servers
- Excellent European data centers
- More resources per dollar
- Strong privacy under EU law
Tool B Weaknesses
- Fewer US and Asian locations
- Managed services less developed
- Smaller community and docs
- Support primarily in English/German
What is Linode?
Simple, affordable, and accessible cloud computing by AkamaiLinode is a Hosting tool for teams evaluating vps hosting software in 2026. Simple, affordable, and accessible cloud computing by Akamai ProPicked's review is based on provider-published pricing, plan limits, feature availability, and customer review signals rather than sponsorship placement. Provider data highlights cpu Cores, ram, storage, bandwidth, dedicated Resources as tracked capabilities. The current rating is 8.4/10, with value, feature coverage, ease of use, and support considered separately so buyers can compare it against alternatives in the same category. Use this page to verify what Linode offers, where it is strongest, what trade-offs to check, and which competing tools may fit better before committing.
- +Clear category fit:Linode is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives.
- +Provider-checked pricing context:No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data. Published entry pricing starts around $5/month.
- +Feature coverage is documented:Provider data highlights cpu Cores, ram, storage, bandwidth, dedicated Resources as tracked capabilities.
- •Is Linode free?No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data.
- •What should I verify before buying?Confirm current pricing, plan limits, cancellation terms, integrations, and support response expectations.
- •How does ProPicked score Linode?Ratings combine provider data, pricing checks, feature coverage, and public review signals across four dimensions.
What is Hetzner?
High-performance cloud hosting and dedicated servers at unbeatable pricesHetzner is a Hosting tool for teams evaluating vps hosting software in 2026. High-performance cloud hosting and dedicated servers at unbeatable prices ProPicked's review is based on provider-published pricing, plan limits, feature availability, and customer review signals rather than sponsorship placement. Provider data highlights cpu Cores, ram, storage, bandwidth, dedicated Resources as tracked capabilities. The current rating is 8.8/10, with value, feature coverage, ease of use, and support considered separately so buyers can compare it against alternatives in the same category. Use this page to verify what Hetzner offers, where it is strongest, what trade-offs to check, and which competing tools may fit better before committing.
- +Clear category fit:Hetzner is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives.
- +Provider-checked pricing context:No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data. Published entry pricing starts around $3.29/month.
- +Feature coverage is documented:Provider data highlights cpu Cores, ram, storage, bandwidth, dedicated Resources as tracked capabilities.
- •Is Hetzner free?No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data.
- •What should I verify before buying?Confirm current pricing, plan limits, cancellation terms, integrations, and support response expectations.
- •How does ProPicked score Hetzner?Ratings combine provider data, pricing checks, feature coverage, and public review signals across four dimensions.
Linode vs Hetzner: Key Differences
Linode vs Hetzner: Quick Verdict
Decision Summary
Who wins in each scenario? A quick look at how Linode and Hetzner compare across different buyer needs.
Scores 8.8/10 vs 8.4/10
Scores 9.5/10 on value vs 8.7/10
Ease of use: 8.5/10 vs 8.0/10
Features + support avg: 8.3/10 vs 8.0/10
Higher value score: 9.5/10
Starts at $3.29/mo vs $5/mo
Choose Linode if you need...
- ✓Clear category fit:Linode is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives.
- ✓Provider-checked pricing context:No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data. Published entry pricing starts around $5/month.
- ✓Feature coverage is documented:Provider data highlights cpu Cores, ram, storage, bandwidth, dedicated Resources as tracked capabilities.
- !Plan limits still need buyer verification:Always confirm usage caps, seat limits, and renewal pricing on the official provider site before purchasing.
- !Fit depends on workflow:Teams with complex integrations or strict compliance requirements should compare Linode against at least two alternatives.
Choose Hetzner if you need...
- ✓Clear category fit:Hetzner is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives.
- ✓Provider-checked pricing context:No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data. Published entry pricing starts around $3.29/month.
- ✓Feature coverage is documented:Provider data highlights cpu Cores, ram, storage, bandwidth, dedicated Resources as tracked capabilities.
- ✓Lower starting price ($3.29/mo vs $5/mo)
- !Plan limits still need buyer verification:Always confirm usage caps, seat limits, and renewal pricing on the official provider site before purchasing.
- !Fit depends on workflow:Teams with complex integrations or strict compliance requirements should compare Hetzner against at least two alternatives.
Our Take: Linode vs Hetzner
Hetzner edges ahead with a 8.8/10 vs 8.4/10. The gap is noticeable but not dramatic — both are legitimate options depending on what you prioritize.
Where they differ: Linode's biggest strengths are clear category fit:Linode is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives. and provider-checked pricing context:No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data. Published entry pricing starts around $5/month.. Hetzner, on the other hand, shines with clear category fit:Hetzner is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives. and provider-checked pricing context:No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data. Published entry pricing starts around $3.29/month.. These reflect fundamentally different product priorities.
Neither tool offers a free plan — make sure to request a demo or use any available trial period before committing to a paid subscription.
Linode vs Hetzner Score Comparison
| Category | Linode | Hetzner |
|---|---|---|
🏆Overall Score | 8.4 | ▲8.8 |
💫Ease of Use | 8.5▲ | 8.0 |
⚙Features | 8.2 | ▲8.5 |
💰Value for Money | 8.7 | ▲9.5 |
💬Customer Support | 8.3▲ | 7.5 |
Why These Scores? Our Reasoning
- +Clear category fit:Linode is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives.
- +Provider-checked pricing context:No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data. Published entry pricing starts around $5/month.
- +Feature coverage is documented:Provider data highlights cpu Cores, ram, storage, bandwidth, dedicated Resources as tracked capabilities.
- -Plan limits still need buyer verification:Always confirm usage caps, seat limits, and renewal pricing on the official provider site before purchasing.
- -Fit depends on workflow:Teams with complex integrations or strict compliance requirements should compare Linode against at least two alternatives.
- +Clear category fit:Hetzner is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives.
- +Provider-checked pricing context:No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data. Published entry pricing starts around $3.29/month.
- +Feature coverage is documented:Provider data highlights cpu Cores, ram, storage, bandwidth, dedicated Resources as tracked capabilities.
- -Plan limits still need buyer verification:Always confirm usage caps, seat limits, and renewal pricing on the official provider site before purchasing.
- -Fit depends on workflow:Teams with complex integrations or strict compliance requirements should compare Hetzner against at least two alternatives.
Linode vs Hetzner Pros & Cons
+Strengths
- ✓Clear category fit:Linode is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives.
- ✓Provider-checked pricing context:No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data. Published entry pricing starts around $5/month.
- ✓Feature coverage is documented:Provider data highlights cpu Cores, ram, storage, bandwidth, dedicated Resources as tracked capabilities.
-Weaknesses
- ✗Plan limits still need buyer verification:Always confirm usage caps, seat limits, and renewal pricing on the official provider site before purchasing.
- ✗Fit depends on workflow:Teams with complex integrations or strict compliance requirements should compare Linode against at least two alternatives.
- ✗Review signals can lag product changes:New feature launches and pricing updates may not be reflected in public user feedback immediately.
+Strengths
- ✓Clear category fit:Hetzner is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives.
- ✓Provider-checked pricing context:No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data. Published entry pricing starts around $3.29/month.
- ✓Feature coverage is documented:Provider data highlights cpu Cores, ram, storage, bandwidth, dedicated Resources as tracked capabilities.
-Weaknesses
- ✗Plan limits still need buyer verification:Always confirm usage caps, seat limits, and renewal pricing on the official provider site before purchasing.
- ✗Fit depends on workflow:Teams with complex integrations or strict compliance requirements should compare Hetzner against at least two alternatives.
- ✗Review signals can lag product changes:New feature launches and pricing updates may not be reflected in public user feedback immediately.
Who Should Use Linode vs Hetzner?
Linode is ideal for
- •Is Linode free?No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data.
- •What should I verify before buying?Confirm current pricing, plan limits, cancellation terms, integrations, and support response expectations.
- •How does ProPicked score Linode?Ratings combine provider data, pricing checks, feature coverage, and public review signals across four dimensions.
- •Match the provider's published plan limits against your expected seats, projects, contacts, storage, or usage volume.
- •Check whether the features you need are included in the entry plan or require an upgrade.
Hetzner is ideal for
- •Is Hetzner free?No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data.
- •What should I verify before buying?Confirm current pricing, plan limits, cancellation terms, integrations, and support response expectations.
- •How does ProPicked score Hetzner?Ratings combine provider data, pricing checks, feature coverage, and public review signals across four dimensions.
- •Match the provider's published plan limits against your expected seats, projects, contacts, storage, or usage volume.
- •Check whether the features you need are included in the entry plan or require an upgrade.
When NOT to Choose Linode or Hetzner
Knowing when a tool is the wrong fit is just as important as knowing its strengths
Skip Linode if...
- ✗Plan limits still need buyer verification:Always confirm usage caps, seat limits, and renewal pricing on the official provider site before purchasing.
- ✗Fit depends on workflow:Teams with complex integrations or strict compliance requirements should compare Linode against at least two alternatives.
- ✗Review signals can lag product changes:New feature launches and pricing updates may not be reflected in public user feedback immediately.
Skip Hetzner if...
- ✗Plan limits still need buyer verification:Always confirm usage caps, seat limits, and renewal pricing on the official provider site before purchasing.
- ✗Fit depends on workflow:Teams with complex integrations or strict compliance requirements should compare Hetzner against at least two alternatives.
- ✗Review signals can lag product changes:New feature launches and pricing updates may not be reflected in public user feedback immediately.
Linode vs Hetzner Decision Framework
Choose based on what matters most to you
Linode vs Hetzner Pricing
| Pricing Feature | Linode | Hetzner |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | ✗ No | ✗ No |
| Starting Price | $5/mo | $3.29/mo |
| Free Trial | Not available | Not available |
| Number of Plans | 4 | 4 |
| Value Rating | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 |
Linode Plans
- ✓1 vCPU
- ✓1 GB RAM
- ✓25 GB SSD
- ✓1 vCPU
- ✓2 GB RAM
- ✓50 GB SSD
- ✓2 vCPU
- ✓4 GB RAM
- ✓80 GB SSD
- ✓2 dedicated vCPUs
- ✓4 GB RAM
- ✓80 GB SSD
Hetzner Plans
- ✓2 vCPU
- ✓4GB RAM
- ✓40GB SSD
- ✓20TB bandwidth
- ✓4 vCPU
- ✓8GB RAM
- ✓80GB SSD
- ✓20TB bandwidth
- ✓8 vCPU
- ✓16GB RAM
- ✓160GB SSD
- ✓20TB bandwidth
- ✓16 vCPU
- ✓32GB RAM
- ✓320GB SSD
- ✓20TB bandwidth
What You Get: Plan Feature Comparison
Comparing Linode's Nanode ($5/mo) vs Hetzner's CX22 ($3.29/mo)
| Feature | Linode | Hetzner |
|---|---|---|
| 1 vCPU | ✓ | ✗ |
| 1 GB RAM | ✓ | ✗ |
| 25 GB SSD | ✓ | ✗ |
| 2 vCPU | ✗ | ✓ |
| 4GB RAM | ✗ | ✓ |
| 40GB SSD | ✗ | ✓ |
| 20TB bandwidth | ✗ | ✓ |
Which Should You Choose?
Linode
Hetzner
Quick Buyer's Guide
Based on our analysis, here's who each tool is best suited for
- ✓Is Linode free?No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data.
- ✓What should I verify before buying?Confirm current pricing, plan limits, cancellation terms, integrations, and support response expectations.
- ✓Users who need clear category fit:Linode is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives.
- ✓Is Hetzner free?No permanent free plan is listed in the current provider data.
- ✓What should I verify before buying?Confirm current pricing, plan limits, cancellation terms, integrations, and support response expectations.
- ✓Users who need clear category fit:Hetzner is positioned for buyers comparing vps hosting options, making it easier to benchmark against direct alternatives.
- ✓Teams with tighter budgets ($3.29/mo vs $5/mo)
Linode vs Hetzner: The Bottom Line
Hetzner takes this matchup, though Linode remains a viable alternative.
Choose Linode for a broader managed services ecosystem with global reach backed by Akamai. Choose Hetzner for the best price-to-performance ratio in cloud hosting, especially if your audience is primarily in Europe. Linode at 8.4/10 is still competitive and may be the better fit depending on your specific requirements and budget.