Hetzner vs Linode — Which VPS is Better in 2026?
A detailed comparison of Hetzner and Linode for hosting self-hosted tools and applications. We break down pricing, performance, features, and support to help you choose.
Hetzner Wins Overall
Hetzner takes the lead due to better value and performance per dollar. However, Linode is the better choice if you prioritize global coverage and Akamai backing.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Hetzner | Linode |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8.49$4.15/mo Save 51% | $18.00$5.00/mo Save 72% |
| Our Rating | ||
| Best For | European value hosting | global coverage and Akamai backing |
| NVMe Storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hourly Billing | ✓ | ✓ |
| Docker Support | ✓ | ✓ |
Pricing Comparison
Hetzner starts at $4.15/mo while Linode begins at $5.00/mo. At lower tiers, the price difference is small, but it compounds as you scale up to larger instances. Both offer predictable pricing without hidden fees.
Performance
In our benchmarks, both providers delivered reliable CPU and network performance. Disk I/O speeds were excellent on NVMe-equipped instances from both Hetzner and Linode. The differences are marginal for most self-hosted workloads.
Data Center Locations
Consider where your users are located. Hetzner and Linode have different data center footprints. Choose the provider with servers closest to your target audience for the best latency.
Support and Documentation
Both providers offer ticket-based support and knowledge bases. Linode generally has comparable documentation, while Hetzner offers solid community resources.
Best For: Hetzner
Choose Hetzner if you prioritize European value hosting. Hetzner is particularly strong for users who value these qualities in their hosting provider.
Best For: Linode
Choose Linode if you prioritize global coverage and Akamai backing. Linode shines when these factors are your top priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, Hetzner or Linode?
Hetzner starts at $4.15/mo while Linode starts at $5.00/mo. Compare specific plan tiers for the most accurate pricing for your needs.
Which has better performance?
Both providers deliver solid performance. Hetzner edges ahead overall due to better value and performance per dollar.
Which is better for beginners?
Both are beginner-friendly. Hetzner is best for European value hosting while Linode excels at global coverage and Akamai backing.
Can I migrate between Hetzner and Linode?
Yes. Both support standard VPS operations. You can migrate using server snapshots, rsync, or Docker container transfers.
Which should I choose for self-hosting?
For most self-hosting use cases, Hetzner is our recommendation due to better value and performance per dollar. But Linode may be better if you prioritize global coverage and Akamai backing.