Vultr vs Linode: Which VPS Provider is Better in 2026?
Vultr vs Linode (Akamai) compared for 2026. We analyze entry pricing, global locations, included bandwidth, and support to help you pick the right cloud VPS.
Quick Verdict
Vultr undercuts Linode on entry price ($2.50 vs $5) and triples its global footprint (32 vs 11 locations), making it the better pick if you need servers in Asia, Latin America, Africa, or Australia, or just want the cheapest cloud instance. Linode counters with 24/7 phone support, more included transfer, and a clean billing experience. For global reach and low cost, Vultr wins; for hands-on support, Linode.
Vultr vs Linode Comparison
| Feature | Vultr | Linode |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.50/mo | $5.00/mo |
| Virtualization | KVM | KVM |
| CPU Options | 1-24 vCPU | 1-64 vCPU |
| RAM Range | 0.5-96 GB | 1-512 GB |
| Storage Type | NVMe SSD | NVMe SSD |
| Data Centers | 32 locations | 11 regions worldwide |
| Bandwidth | 0.5-15 TB | 1-20 TB |
| Support | Ticket + Docs | 24/7 Ticket + Phone |
| Uptime SLA | 99.99% | 99.99% |
Vultr Overview
Vultr is a cloud infrastructure provider offering VPS (Virtual Private Servers), bare metal, and cloud compute services. Their plans start at $2.50/mo with KVM virtualization and NVMe SSD storage across 32 locations.
Linode Overview
Linode is a cloud infrastructure provider offering VPS hosting and compute services. Plans start at $5.00/mo with KVM virtualization and NVMe SSD storage across 11 regions worldwide.
Pricing Comparison
Vultr starts at $2.50/mo while Linode starts at $5.00/mo. Both offer hourly billing on most plans. For equivalent specs (4 GB RAM, 2 vCPU), compare the plans in the table above to see current pricing differences.
Which Should You Choose?
Vultr undercuts Linode on entry price ($2.50 vs $5) and triples its global footprint (32 vs 11 locations), making it the better pick if you need servers in Asia, Latin America, Africa, or Australia, or just want the cheapest cloud instance. Linode counters with 24/7 phone support, more included transfer, and a clean billing experience. For global reach and low cost, Vultr wins; for hands-on support, Linode.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vultr cheaper than Linode?
Yes. Vultr starts at $2.50/mo (512 MB) vs Linode's $5/mo (1 GB). At the 1 GB tier they are closer, but Vultr's sub-$5 instances have no Linode equivalent.
Does Vultr have more locations than Linode?
Yes, far more. Vultr operates 32 data center locations worldwide vs Linode's 11. Vultr covers many cities Linode does not, especially across Asia and the Southern Hemisphere.
Which is better for a beginner?
Both are beginner-friendly. Linode offers 24/7 phone support which helps newcomers, while Vultr has a simpler pricing page and one-click apps. Either works well for a first VPS.