Cloud hosting is the backbone of modern websites and applications, providing speed, scalability and flexibility. DigitalOcean is a well-known player in this space, trusted by developers and businesses alike. However, depending on your specific needs whether it’s managed services, a broader global infrastructure or different pricing models you may be exploring other cloud hosting providers.
Switching hosts is a big decision and should not be taken lightly. Not all alternatives provide a better experience, the last thing you want is to migrate your site, only to face the same load balancer issues again
If you’re looking for better pricing, enhanced support or advanced features, this guide explores 10 of the best DigitalOcean alternatives in 2025, helping you make an informed decision based on your unique needs.
Why should you look for DigitalOcean alternatives?
DigitalOcean has built a strong reputation with its developer-friendly approach and straightforward cloud solutions, but it’s not the perfect fit for everyone. Depending on your needs, an alternative might offer better flexibility, features or support. Here’s why you might want to explore other options:
- Scalability needs: As your business grows, you may need more powerful solutions that can scale seamlessly.
- Advanced features: Some alternatives offer more advanced features such as enhanced security, compliance certifications and AI/ML capabilities.
- Pricing flexibility: Depending on your usage, other DigitalOcean alternatives might offer more cost-effective solutions.
- Global reach: A wider geographic presence can be crucial for businesses that need low-latency solutions across multiple regions.
- Reliable support & uptime: When running mission-critical applications, 24/7 live support and higher reliability standards can make all the difference.
Top 10 DigitalOcean alternatives for cloud hosting in 2025
Before exploring each provider, it’s essential to understand that the “best” cloud host depends on your specific needs. However, this list features providers recognized for their performance, reliability, features and overall value.
| Provider | Hosting types | Key features | Best for |
| Bluehost Cloud Hosting | Cloud, Shared, VPS, Dedicated | 100% uptime, free domain (1st year), 24/7 support, one-click WordPress, SSL, scalable | Small to medium businesses, WordPress users seeking easy-to-manage cloud hosting |
| Web.com | Shared, Advanced Solutions | Website builder, 24/7 support, domain management, SEO/marketing tools, eCommerce | Small to medium businesses needing all-in-one website building and hosting solutions |
| Domain.com | Shared, VPS, Dedicated | User-friendly control panel, free domain, 24/7 support, unlimited storage, security | Individuals and businesses seeking reliable domain registration and hosting |
| Amazon Web Services (AWS) | Cloud (Comprehensive) | Scalable, 200+ services (AI, ML, big data), global data centers, strong security | Enterprises and developers needing advanced, scalable cloud solutions |
| Microsoft Azure | Cloud (Comprehensive) | Microsoft integration, AI/analytics, global network, enterprise-grade security | Enterprises using Microsoft products, needing robust cloud solutions |
| Google Cloud Platform (GCP) | Cloud (Comprehensive) | Data analytics, AI/ML, global network, Google integration, strong security | Businesses needing advanced analytics, ML and high-performance computing |
| IBM Cloud | Cloud (Hybrid, Enterprise) | AI/ML tools, hybrid cloud, enterprise-grade security, global presence | Enterprises needing secure, hybrid cloud solutions with AI capabilities |
| Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) | Cloud (Enterprise) | High-performance computing, managed databases, security, scalable infrastructure | Enterprises needing powerful database and high-performance cloud solutions |
| Vultr | Cloud (SSD Servers) | High-performance SSD, transparent pricing, multiple locations, easy control panel | Developers and small businesses seeking cost-effective, high-performance cloud hosting |
| Linode | Cloud (SSD Linux Servers) | High-performance SSD, predictable pricing, scalable, strong developer community | Developers and tech-savvy users needing affordable, Linux-focused cloud hosting |
1. Bluehost Cloud hosting
Founded in 2003, Bluehost is one of the most widely recognized web hosting providers, powering over 5 million websites globally. As an officially recommended host by WordPress.org, it’s a top choice for WordPress users.
At Bluehost, we’re best known for our shared, VPS and dedicated hosting, but we also offer cloud hosting solutions that make us a strong DigitalOcean alternative. With our user-friendly interface, expert support and scalable cloud hosting, we provide businesses with the reliability and performance they need. Plus, we eliminate the hassle of managing an unmanaged cloud infrastructure, so you can focus on growing your business while we handle the technical side.
Key features of Bluehost cloud hosting:
- 100% uptime reliability with Bluehost cloud
- Free domain name for the first year
- 24/7 customer support with live chat and phone assistance
- One-click WordPress installation for easy setup
- Free SSL certificate and DDoS security
- Scalable cloud hosting with flexible pricing options
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses and individuals who need powerful, scalable cloud hosting without the hassle. With our expert support and WordPress-optimized performance, we make hosting effortless and reliable.
2. Web.com
Web.com, established in 1999, offers comprehensive web hosting and website development services. It focuses on helping small to medium businesses build and enhance their online presence. The company provides a variety of hosting packages, including shared hosting, which is ideal for beginners. It also provides advanced solutions for businesses looking to scale.
Web.com also offers additional services such as website design, SEO and online marketing tools, making it a one-stop shop for businesses looking to grow online.
Key features of Web.com:
- Website builder with customizable templates
- 24/7 customer support
- Domain registration and management
- SEO and marketing tools
- eCommerce solutions
Best for: Small to medium businesses that need an all-in-one solution for building and maintaining their website.
3. Domain.com
Domain.com, founded in 2000, is a versatile provider of domain registration and web hosting services. It offers a range of hosting solutions, including shared, dedicated and VPS hosting. This makes it suitable for a wide variety of users from individual bloggers to large enterprises.
Known for its simplicity and reliability, Domain.com focuses on providing robust and easy-to-use services that cater to both beginners and experienced webmasters.
Key features:
- User-friendly control panel
- Free domain registration with hosting purchase
- 24/7 customer support
- Unlimited disk space and bandwidth
- Enhanced security features
Best for: Individuals and businesses looking for reliable domain registration combined with robust hosting solutions.
4. Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the market leader in the cloud computing industry, providing a comprehensive and highly scalable cloud platform. Launched in 2006, AWS offers over 200 fully featured services from datacenters globally. This DigitalOcean alternative offers everything from basic storage and computing to advanced AI, machine learning, data analytic and IoT solutions.
Key features of Amazon Web Services:
- Highly scalable and flexible
- Wide range of services including AI, ML and big data
- Global data centers for low-latency access
- Strong security and compliance
- Pay-as-you-go pricing model
Best for: Enterprises and developers who need advanced cloud computing solutions with robust scalability and a wide range of services.
5. Microsoft Azure
Microsoft Azure, launched in 2010, is a comprehensive cloud provider that offers a wide array of services designed to meet the needs of enterprises. Azure offers solutions for computing, storage, databases and analytics. It emphasizes strong integration with Microsoft’s software ecosystem. Azure provides enterprise-grade features and seamless integration with existing Microsoft products like Office 365 and Windows Server.
Key features of Microsoft Azure:
- Seamless integration with Microsoft products
- Wide range of cloud services including AI and analytics
- Strong security and compliance standards
- Global network of data centers
- Pay-as-you-go pricing
Best for: Enterprises and organizations already using Microsoft products and those needing enterprise-grade cloud solutions.
6. Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
Google Cloud Platform (GCP), launched in 2008, provides data analytics and machine learning capabilities. The infrastructure of Google Cloud Platform supports high-performance applications, big data projects and advanced computing needs. This DigitalOcean alternative also provides a wide range of cloud services that are integrated with other Google services.
Key features of Google cloud platform:
- Advanced data analytics and AI services
- Global network for low-latency performance
- Strong security and compliance measures
- Flexible pricing options
- Integration with other Google cloud services
Best for: Businesses that require advanced data analytics, machine learning capabilities and high-performance computing.
7. IBM Cloud
IBM Cloud stands out with its focus on enterprise-grade solutions, hybrid cloud capabilities and AI technologies. Launched in 2011, IBM Cloud offers a secure platform that supports services including computing, storage and networking, as well as advanced Integrated AI and machine learning tools.
Key features of IBM cloud:
- AI and machine learning tools
- Support for hybrid cloud deployments
- Security and compliance
- Wide range of enterprise-grade cloud services
- Global data center presence
Best for: Enterprises that need secure cloud services along with AI and hybrid cloud capabilities.
8. Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI)
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), launched in 2016, is known for its high-performance computing capabilities and enterprise-grade cloud services. OCI offers a comprehensive set of cloud solutions including computing, storage, networking and advanced database management services.
Key features of Oracle Cloud Infrastructure:
- High-performance computing
- Advanced managed databases
- Comprehensive security and compliance
- Flexible and scalable infrastructure
- Global data centers
Best for: Enterprises needing powerful database solutions and high-performance cloud infrastructure.
9. Vultr
Vultr, founded in 2014, offers high-performance SSD cloud servers with a focus on simplicity and efficiency. This platform provides a range of cloud services including computer instances, block storage and object storage. It focuses on delivering cost-effective solutions. This DigitalOcean competitor also provides transparent pricing and ease of use.
Key features of Vultr:
- High-performance SSD servers
- Simple and transparent pricing
- Wide range of server locations
- Easy-to-use control panel
- Scalable resources
Best for: Developers and small businesses looking for cost-effective, high-performance cloud hosting providers.
10. Linode
Founded in 2003, Linode offers high-performance SSD Linux servers. It focuses on simplicity, affordability and a developer-friendly environment. It provides a range of cloud hosting services including computer instances, storage and networking, with a strong emphasis on Linux-based environments.
Key features of Linode:
- High-performance SSD servers
- Simple and predictable pricing
- Easy-to-use control panel
- Scalable infrastructure
- Strong developer community
Best for: Developers and tech-savvy individuals looking for powerful and affordable cloud hosting solutions with a strong focus on Linux.
How to choose the best DigitalOcean competitors for cloud hosting
Selecting the right DigitalOcean alternative involves evaluating several factors to ensure the chosen platform meets your specific needs. Here’s a detailed look at the key factors:
Performance and reliability
Performance and reliability are crucial for maintaining a seamless online presence. Here’s what to evaluate:
- Uptime guarantees: Look for DigitalOcean alternatives that offer a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with a high uptime guarantee (typically 99.9% or higher). This ensures your website or application remains available to users with minimal downtime.
- Data center performance: Investigate the performance benchmarks of the provider’s data centers, including latency, throughput and redundancy measures. Providers with multiple, geographically dispersed data centers can offer better performance and reliability.
Scalability
Scalability is essential for growing businesses with fluctuating workloads. Consider the following:
- Resource scaling: Ensure the provider supports easy scaling of resources such as CPU, RAM and storage. This flexibility enables you to manage traffic spikes and business growth without service interruptions.
- Auto-scaling capabilities: Some providers offer auto-scaling features that automatically adjust resources based on demand. This can be especially useful for handling unpredictable traffic patterns.
Cost
Understanding the cost structure is critical to avoiding unexpected expenses. Key points include:
- Pricing models: Compare the pricing models offered by various DigitalOcean competitors. Common models include pay-as-you-go, reserved instances and flat-rate pricing. Choose the one that aligns with your budget and usage patterns.
- Total cost of ownership (TCO): Calculate the total cost of ownership, including base costs, additional fees for bandwidth, storage or premium support and potential hidden charges.
Support
Quality support can make a significant difference, especially during critical issues:
- Support availability: Check if the provider offers 24/7 customer support and what channels are available (e.g., phone, chat, email).
- Support quality: Look for reviews and testimonials about the provider’s support team’s responsiveness and expertise. Premium support packages with dedicated account managers can be especially beneficial for businesses with complex infrastructure needs.
Features and integrations
Advanced features and integrations can enhance functionality and security. Consider:
- Security measures: Ensure that the DigitalOcean alternatives offer robust security features, such as DDoS protection, firewalls, encryption and regular security audits.
- Compliance certifications: For businesses that handle sensitive data, it’s important to check if the provider complies with industry standards and regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS).
- Software integrations: Identify if the provider integrates with other tools and platforms you use, such as CI/CD pipelines, monitoring tools and server management systems. Seamless integrations can streamline workflows and improve efficiency.
Global reach
Global reach is important for ensuring low-latency access and compliance with local regulations. Consider:
- Data center locations: Ensure the provider has data centers in the regions where your users are located. This minimizes latency and improves user experience.
- Local compliance: Verify that the DigitalOcean alternatives comply with local regulations and data sovereignty laws in the regions where you operate. This is particularly important for businesses operating in multiple countries with stringent data protection laws.
Ease of use
A user-friendly platform can significantly reduce the learning curve and improve productivity. Evaluate:
- User interface: Look for a clean, intuitive user interface that simplifies management tasks. Features like drag-and-drop capabilities, clear navigation and detailed dashboards are beneficial.
- Management tools: Assess the quality and range of management tools provided. Comprehensive tools for monitoring, logging and managing resources can save time and effort, making it easier to maintain and optimize your infrastructure.
Final thoughts
The landscape of cloud hosting is extensive and diverse, with many options for DigitalOcean alternatives that cater to various needs and preferences. If you need advanced enterprise features, cost-effective solutions or specialized hosting for specific applications, Bluehost can meet all your requirements.
At Bluehost, we provide top-notch managed cloud services designed to deliver lightning-fast page load times and 100% website uptime. Our platform is expertly built and maintained by highly skilled WordPress professionals, running on a powerful global server infrastructure to ensure unmatched reliability and performance.
With Bluehost cloud hosting service, rest assured that your website will have the unparalleled power and speed required for growing your online business.
FAQs
Reasons to Consider a DigitalOcean Alternative:
Limited customer support – No live chat or phone support.
Scalability challenges – Some businesses outgrow DigitalOcean’s capabilities.
Pricing flexibility – Other cloud providers offer better cost structures.
Advanced features – Some alternatives provide AI, machine learning and enhanced security.
Geographic reach – More data center locations improve global performance.
For small businesses, Bluehost and Web.com offer user-friendly interfaces and strong customer support. This makes them the best alternatives to DigitalOcean.
Bluehost is known for its affordable and transparent pricing models, which tailor to the different needs of businesses and website owners. This makes them one of the cost-effective alternatives to DigitalOcean for providing cloud hosting.
Bluehost, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud Platform are top choices for high-performance and enterprise-grade cloud hosting solutions.
Bluehost specializes in managed WordPress hosting, providing optimized performance and support specifically for WordPress sites. The company has also been recommended by WordPress itself since 2005.
