This is my comparison of DigitalOcean vs. Vultr.
It can sometimes be challenging to choose between different virtual private server (VPS) providers. Many of them offer such a range of different products that it’s difficult to compare fairly. However, when looking at Vultr and DigitalOcean from a broader perspective, it becomes apparent that they’re cut from the same cloth. It’s easier to compare them and identify which one is the best.
The main goal of a VPS is to simplify using the cloud. These allow you to run high-traffic websites, and you can develop and test code; you can create a gaming server and even use it to host multiple VPNs to ensure higher security on your network.
Having worked with VMware in the past, I came to know their VPS. However, when looking at VPS, both of these names came up repeatedly in searches, so I decided to see what it was all about.
At a Glance
DigitalOcean made big waves in the industry when they released their $5 self-managed servers. Being able to get a VPS at this price, even a self-managed one, was unheard of. Although the price was unmissable, it was still self-managed, which meant DIY. You had to set up everything for yourself. DigitalOcean didn’t see this as a problem and soon released documentation and guides, along with a handy one-click install provision which made the setup easier, even for those without technical knowledge.
Vultr came onto the scene and learned from DigitalOcean’s example. They used the same pricing tier but offered server space for as little as $2.50. They also have a $5 plan available that seems to outperform DigitalOcean’s. However, they didn’t offer as many guides or setup help with their packages.
So, who’ll come out on top between Vultr vs. DigitalOcean? Read on to discover who the winner will be.
Comparison: DigitalOcean Vs. Vultr
To make this comparison fair, I looked at features offered by both platforms, such as ease of use, storage and bandwidth options, and support. Here’s how each VPS stacked up.
Ease of Use
Both of these platforms have a very easy setup that’s even suitable for beginners. Vultr’s control panel is very well laid out. You can easily set up and deploy your server with any additional help or extra tools required. It also allows you to upload your custom ISO, meaning that you can install any operating system.
DigitalOcean is also very easy to use. It has one-click installation and configuration of many essential applications such as GitLab, cPanel, and more. DigitalOcean doesn’t offer much in the way of operating systems, and it doesn’t support Windows.
Winner of ease of use: Vultr
Storage and Bandwidth
In the entry-level packages, both platforms offer enough storage and bandwidth to manage basic tasks. They also have options to increase storage and bandwidth (usually moving to a higher package) for when your website explodes with visitors.
Vultr’s entry-level plan comes with 10GB storage, 512 MB RAM, and 1 CPU core. Vultr also clearly states the bandwidth limit on all their plans, and with the entry-level plan, the limit is 500 GB.
DigitalOceans entry-level plan offers 25GB SSD storage, 1 GB RAM, and 1 CPU core. However, they don’t specify a bandwidth limit in their packages.
The winner of storage and bandwidth: DigitalOcean, despite not showing the bandwidth.
Backups and CMS Support
Vultr offers an automatic backup when you opt for their VPS plans. Their backups are easy to manage and add another layer of security and protection to your data. Vultr does charge extra for backups, and you can expect your monthly base fee to increase by 20% for backups. Vultr also has a wide range of CMS for different systems. This supportive framework is essential for those needing some extra guidance.
DigitalOcean also offers automatic backups at an additional rate of 20% of your base rate. Their backups work on a snapshot system, which you can manually schedule. DigitalOcean offers CMS integration with most of the big names in the industry, including WordPress. The WordPress CMS covers a massive 30% of the web.
Winner of backups and CMS support: DigitalOcean
Speed and Uptime
Speed and uptime are both important considerations for any VPS. Both these platforms offer fast speeds and high percentage uptime. Vultr has a faster and more reliable speed than DigitalOcean. They also clearly state on the website that they offer 100% uptime and back this up in their SLA by stating if a user isn’t completely happy, they’ll provide you with SLA credits for your hourly costs.
DigitalOcean offers good speeds, although they just miss out on Vultr’s reliability a bit. When it comes to their uptime, they’re very transparent by indicating they offer an uptime of 99.99%.
Winner of speed and uptime: Vultr
Pricing
Vultr’s pricing plans start from $2.50/month, which is sufficient to get someone to establish their business online, and as the business grows, you can scale to more comprehensive packages. The premium package comes to $640/month and includes a 1.6 TB storage capacity, 24 Core CPUs, 96 GB memory and a bandwidth of 15 TB.
Although DigitalOcean’s plans start at a slightly higher price of $5.00/month, this does include more storage space and RAM than Vultr. This also becomes evident when comparing the other packages. DigitalOcean is always slightly more expensive but offers more in terms of storage, etc. For example, their premium package is also $640.00/month and includes 2.56 TB storage capacity, 24 Core CPUs, 128 GB memory, and 12 TB transfer capabilities.
Winner of pricing: Vultr is the most affordable option
Customer Service
Vultr only offers a forum as a means of support. Here you can post any queries you may have.
DigitalOcean offers three-tiered support based on the package you choose. The support offered ranges from technical assistance, assistance with scaling and guided technical support, and instant responses and communication with the service provider.
Winner of customer service: DigitalOcean
Vultr Vs. DigitalOcean: the Winner
Although this was a very close one, I would have to go with DigitalOcean purely because of their customer support.
DigitalOcean is great when you are new to VPS and need a user-friendly, affordable platform that offers support when needed. However, Vultr is still a great option, and if you’re looking for something even cheaper with more flexibility, then Vultr will work great for you.
