Skip to main content

If you're exploring cloud managed service providers, you might be encountering some familiar frustrations. Perhaps you're dealing with unpredictable downtime, ballooning costs that strain your budget, or security gaps that could lead to serious compliance risks. Choosing the wrong provider can amplify these issues, leaving your team stuck troubleshooting problems instead of driving projects forward.

Cloud managed service providers handle crucial tasks such as proactive infrastructure monitoring, cost optimization, comprehensive security management, and efficient support. This lets your team stay focused on strategic goals, not infrastructure headaches. The right partner doesn't just solve problems—they actively contribute to your business growth by enabling scalability, security, and seamless integration with your existing workflows.

I’ve reviewed and assessed over 50 cloud service providers across various industries, gaining insights into what genuinely moves the needle for businesses. In this guide, I’ve distilled that extensive experience into clear, unbiased recommendations. My aim is to help you quickly identify a provider that aligns precisely with your team's requirements and strategic objectives.

Why Trust Our Reviews

We’ve been testing and reviewing SaaS development software and services since 2023. As tech experts ourselves, we know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting a provider. We invest in deep research to help our audience make better purchasing decisions.

We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools and hundreds of service providers for different SaaS development use cases, and written over 1,000 comprehensive reviews. Learn how we stay transparent & check out our review methodology.

Best Cloud Managed Service Providers Summary

This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top cloud managed service providers selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.

Best Cloud Managed Service Providers Reviews

Below are my detailed summaries of the best cloud managed service providers that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a look at each provider’s key services, unique specialties, and pros & cons to help you find the best one for your needs.

Best for European data compliance

  • From €8.99/month

Scaleway offers cloud services including virtual instances, storage solutions, and Kubernetes, catering to developers and businesses focusing on European data compliance. Their main client base includes companies that need infrastructure solutions with a strong emphasis on privacy and regulatory adherence.

Why I picked Scaleway: Their focus on European data compliance makes them a reliable choice for businesses operating under strict data regulations. They provide services like virtual instances and Kubernetes, which are tailored to meet the needs of developers who prioritize data privacy. This focus ensures your team can operate within the regulatory frameworks required in Europe.

Standout Services: Scaleway’s object storage provides scalable and secure data storage, ensuring your data is easily accessible and protected. Their bare metal servers offer high performance for demanding applications, giving your team the computing power needed for complex tasks.

Target industries: Technology, finance, healthcare, media, and retail

Specialties: European data compliance, cloud infrastructure, virtual instances, Kubernetes, and object storage

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Strong focus on European compliance
  • Scalable object storage solutions
  • High-performance bare metal servers

Cons:

  • Limited global data center presence
  • May not suit non-European businesses

Best for hybrid cloud solutions

  • Pricing upon request

Rackspace Technology offers multicloud solutions, focusing on cloud adoption, application deployment, and AI services. Their main client base includes industries such as financial services, healthcare, and education.

Why I picked Rackspace Technology: They provide hybrid cloud solutions that integrate both public and private clouds, allowing your team flexibility in managing workloads. Their offerings include cloud adoption, application modernization, and AI solutions, supporting platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure. This makes it easier for you to manage complex cloud environments efficiently.

Standout Services: Rackspace Technology’s cyber recovery services help your team protect data against ransomware threats, ensuring business continuity. Their Fanatical Experience™ initiative enhances customer support, providing your team with reliable assistance and expertise.

Target industries: Financial services, healthcare, education, government, and retail

Specialties: Multicloud strategy, AI and machine learning, cloud security, application modernization, and SaaS lifecycle management

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Flexibility in hybrid cloud solutions
  • Expertise in AI and machine learning
  • Strong security services

Cons:

  • Requires technical expertise to implement
  • Limited information on service customization

Best for IT infrastructure management

  • Pricing upon request

HCLTech provides cloud services, including consulting, migration, and management, focusing on IT infrastructure and digital transformation. Their main client base consists of large enterprises across various industries that require comprehensive IT solutions.

Why I picked HCLTech: Their expertise in IT infrastructure management supports your team in optimizing and maintaining complex systems. Services like cloud consulting and migration facilitate seamless transitions to cloud environments, ensuring minimal disruption. This focus on infrastructure makes them ideal for organizations with intricate IT needs.

Standout Services: HCLTech’s digital workplace solutions offer tools and strategies to enhance employee productivity and collaboration across your organization. Their cybersecurity services provide advanced threat detection and response, keeping your data secure and your operations compliant with industry standards.

Target industries: Financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and telecommunications

Specialties: IT infrastructure management, cloud consulting, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and application services

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Strong focus on IT infrastructure
  • Expertise in digital transformation
  • Comprehensive cybersecurity offerings

Cons:

  • Limited customization options
  • Focused on complex deployments

Best for GPU cloud computing

  • From $6.50/hour

CoreWeave specializes in GPU cloud computing, offering services like GPU and CPU compute, storage, and networking. They cater to industries focused on AI model training, inference, and visual effects rendering.

Why I picked CoreWeave: Their focus on GPU cloud computing is ideal for AI workloads, providing your team with high-performance solutions. Managed services like Kubernetes and Slurm support complex deployments, ensuring efficient resource management. This specialization helps your organization tackle demanding computational tasks with ease.

Standout Services: CoreWeave’s cluster health management ensures your operations run smoothly by monitoring and optimizing resource usage. Their early access to NVIDIA GPUs gives your team a competitive edge in AI development, reducing time to market for new solutions.

Target industries: AI, visual effects, gaming, finance, and healthcare

Specialties: GPU cloud computing, AI model training, inference, visual effects rendering, and managed software services

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • High-performance computing capabilities
  • Early access to NVIDIA GPUs
  • Strong industry reputation

Cons:

  • May not suit smaller projects
  • Focused on specific industries

Best for global enterprise clients

  • Pricing upon request

Accenture Cloud Services provides cloud solutions tailored to various industries, focusing on cloud strategy, migration, and management. Their main client base includes large enterprises across sectors like aerospace, automotive, and banking.

Why I picked Accenture Cloud Services: They cater to global enterprise clients with their broad range of cloud solutions. Services like cloud strategy and migration are tailored for large-scale implementations, making them suitable for complex environments. This ensures your team benefits from expertise in managing extensive cloud infrastructures.

Standout Services: Accenture Cloud Services’ cloud optimization helps your team enhance efficiency by identifying areas for cost reduction and performance improvement. Their cloud security services provide robust protection, ensuring your data stays safe and compliant with industry regulations.

Target industries: Aerospace, automotive, banking, healthcare, and retail

Specialties: Cloud strategy, migration, management, optimization, and security

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Tailored solutions for large enterprises
  • Expertise in complex cloud environments
  • Strong focus on security and compliance

Cons:

  • Focused on large-scale implementations
  • Requires technical expertise to implement

Best for flexible pricing options

  • From 0.05/GB/month

RunPod offers cloud services focused on GPU computing and serverless functions, catering to developers and businesses needing scalable compute resources. Their main client base includes startups and enterprises looking for affordable and flexible GPU solutions.

Why I picked RunPod: They provide flexible pricing options that make high-performance computing accessible to your team. Services like GPU instances and serverless functions allow you to scale resources according to your project needs, optimizing costs. This flexibility ensures you can manage your budget while accessing the computational power required for demanding tasks.

Standout Services: RunPod’s serverless functions let your team run code without managing servers, simplifying the deployment process and reducing overhead. Their GPU instances provide scalable computing power, ensuring your applications run efficiently and meet performance requirements.

Target industries: Technology, finance, healthcare, media, and education

Specialties: GPU computing, serverless functions, scalable infrastructure, cost-effective solutions, and cloud resources

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Flexible pricing for budget management
  • Scalable GPU computing options
  • Simplifies server management with serverless

Cons:

  • May not suit non-GPU needs
  • Focused on specific industries

Best for healthcare industry services

  • Free consultation available
  • Pricing upon request

Cognizant offers cloud solutions, including application services and digital operations, focusing on transforming business models and improving efficiency. Their primary clients are large enterprises in industries such as healthcare and financial services.

Why I picked Cognizant: They specialize in healthcare industry services, providing your team with tailored cloud solutions that enhance patient care and operational efficiency. Services such as application modernization and digital operations are designed to meet the specific needs of healthcare organizations. This focus helps your business remain competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.

Standout Services: Cognizant’s digital business operations improve your team's efficiency by automating routine tasks and optimizing workflows. Their AI and analytics services assist in making data-driven decisions, helping your organization gain insights and improve performance.

Target industries: Healthcare, financial services, insurance, retail, and manufacturing

Specialties: Application services, digital operations, cloud solutions, AI and analytics, and healthcare services

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Strong focus on healthcare services
  • Expertise in application modernization
  • Comprehensive digital operations offerings

Cons:

  • Pricing details not readily available
  • May not suit smaller businesses

Best for small to mid-sized businesses

  • Free consultation available
  • Pricing upon request

Miles IT offers a range of cloud services, focusing on IT support, cloud hosting, and cybersecurity. Their main client base includes small to mid-sized businesses seeking reliable IT solutions to enhance operational efficiency.

Why I picked Miles IT: They specialize in serving small to mid-sized businesses, providing your team with tailored IT support and cloud hosting services. Their focus on cybersecurity ensures that your data remains protected while you scale your operations. This approach supports businesses in managing their IT needs without the complexity of larger providers.

Standout Services: Miles IT’s 24/7 helpdesk support ensures your team can resolve IT issues quickly, minimizing downtime. Their custom software development helps your organization create tailored solutions that meet specific business needs, enhancing overall productivity.

Target industries: Healthcare, finance, education, retail, and manufacturing

Specialties: IT support, cloud hosting, cybersecurity, software development, and IT consulting

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Tailored for small to mid-sized businesses
  • 24/7 helpdesk support
  • Focus on cybersecurity

Cons:

  • Limited advanced cloud features
  • Focused on specific business sizes

Best for AI and machine learning

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request

Lambda Labs offers specialized cloud services focused on deep learning and AI infrastructure, serving businesses and researchers who need high-performance computing solutions. Their main client base includes companies and academic institutions that require robust computational power for AI model training and development.

Why I picked Lambda Labs: Their focus on AI and machine learning makes them a top choice for teams working on complex models. They provide powerful GPU cloud instances that accelerate training and inference processes, ensuring your projects run efficiently. This dedication to high-performance computing supports your AI initiatives with the necessary computational resources.

Standout Services: Lambda Labs’ GPU cloud instances provide your team with the necessary computational power to train AI models quickly and efficiently. Their on-premise GPU workstations offer a reliable solution for businesses needing dedicated hardware for intensive AI tasks, ensuring consistent performance and scalability.

Target industries: Technology, research, education, healthcare, and finance

Specialties: AI infrastructure, deep learning, GPU cloud computing, model training, and machine learning development

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Specialized in AI and machine learning
  • High-performance GPU cloud instances
  • Suitable for complex model training

Cons:

  • May not suit general cloud requirements
  • Focused on niche industries

Best for digital transformation

  • Pricing upon request

Capgemini Cloud Services offers a range of cloud solutions focused on cybersecurity, data and AI, and sustainability for industries like aerospace, automotive, and banking. Their main client base includes global enterprises seeking technology-driven business transformation.

Why I picked Capgemini Cloud Services: They excel in digital transformation, helping your team adapt to evolving technologies with cloud solutions and AI integration. Their focus on sustainability ensures that your operations align with modern environmental standards. This approach supports your business in achieving long-term growth and innovation.

Standout Services: Capgemini Cloud Services’ cybersecurity solutions provide your team with advanced protection against cyber threats, ensuring data integrity and security. Their sustainability services help your organization implement eco-friendly practices, reducing environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency.

Target industries: Aerospace, automotive, banking, healthcare, and retail

Specialties: Cloud solutions, cybersecurity, data and AI, sustainability, and enterprise management

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Emphasis on sustainability practices
  • Advanced cybersecurity measures
  • Global industry presence

Cons:

  • Pricing details not readily available
  • May be complex for small businesses

Other Cloud Managed Service Providers

Here are some additional cloud managed service providers that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:

  1. Paperspace

    For virtual desktop solutions

  2. OVHcloud

    For scalable cloud solutions

  3. Wipro Cloud Services

    For IT consulting integration

  4. Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI)

    For database management

  5. IBM Cloud

    For enterprise AI solutions

  6. Google Cloud Platform (GCP)

    For AI and machine learning

  7. Microsoft Azure

    For hybrid cloud environments

  8. Amazon Web Services (AWS)

    For extensive service options

  9. Atos

    For European data security

  10. Infosys Cloud Services

    For digital transformation support

What Are Cloud Managed Service Providers?

Cloud managed service providers are companies that remotely manage a business's IT infrastructure and cloud services. They might offer things like:

  • Cloud infrastructure management
  • Data backup and recovery
  • Security and compliance monitoring
  • Network and connectivity services
  • Application hosting and support

IT departments, startups, and growing businesses typically seek out cloud managed service providers. They address challenges like maintaining IT infrastructure, ensuring data security, and managing scalability efficiently.

Cloud Managed Service Providers Selection Criteria

When selecting the best cloud managed service providers to include in this list, I considered common business needs and pain points that these providers address. This included things like managing IT infrastructure efficiently and ensuring data security. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair: 

Core Services (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each provider had to offer these basic services:

  • Cloud infrastructure management
  • Data backup and recovery
  • Network monitoring and support
  • Security and compliance monitoring
  • Application hosting

Additional Standout Services (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique or especially valuable services, such as:

  • AI and machine learning integration
  • Hybrid cloud solutions
  • Advanced cybersecurity features
  • Custom application development
  • IoT support

Industry Experience (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the industry experience of each provider, I considered the following:

  • Years in operation
  • Number of industries served
  • Case studies or success stories
  • Industry certifications or partnerships
  • Expertise in regulatory compliance

Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each provider, I considered the following:

  • Ease of setup
  • Availability of training resources
  • Dedicated onboarding support
  • Time to implementation
  • Customization options during onboarding

Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess the level of customer support each provider offers, I considered the following:

  • Availability of 24/7 support
  • Multiple support channels
  • Response time to inquiries
  • Access to technical experts
  • Customer support satisfaction ratings

Value For Price (10% of total score)
To evaluate the pricing and potential ROI of working with each provider, I considered the following:

  • Transparency of pricing
  • Competitive pricing within the industry
  • Flexibility in pricing plans
  • Value-added services included
  • Cost savings compared to in-house solutions

Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the overall satisfaction of existing customers, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:

  • Consistency of positive feedback
  • Commonly mentioned strengths
  • Recurring issues or complaints
  • Customer retention rates
  • Overall satisfaction ratings

How to Choose a Cloud Managed Service Provider

It’s easy to get bogged down in long lists of services and complex pricing structures. To help you prioritize the things that matter most for your business, keep the following factors in mind:

FactorWhat to Consider
Business ObjectivesAlign the provider's offerings with your team's goals, whether it's scaling operations or enhancing security.
Service Scope and SLAsEnsure the provider covers all necessary services and offers clear service level agreements that meet your needs.
Support AvailabilityCheck if 24/7 support is available and if they offer multiple channels like phone, email, and chat.
Costs and Pricing StructureLook for transparent pricing and flexible plans that fit your budget without hidden fees.
Communication and ReportingEvaluate how often and in what detail the provider communicates and reports on service performance.
Security MeasuresAssess the provider's security protocols to ensure they can protect your data and comply with regulations.
ScalabilityConsider if the provider can grow with your business and handle increased workloads efficiently.
Reputation and ReviewsResearch customer feedback and industry reputation to gauge reliability and customer satisfaction.

Key Cloud Managed Service Provider Services

When selecting a cloud managed service provider, keep an eye out for the following key services:

  • Cloud infrastructure management: Manage your IT infrastructure remotely to ensure optimal performance and availability.
  • Data backup and recovery: Safeguard your data with regular backups and quick recovery options to prevent data loss.
  • Security and compliance monitoring: Protect your business with continuous monitoring to meet security standards and regulatory compliance.
  • Network monitoring and support: Maintain reliable connectivity and quickly resolve network issues to minimize downtime.
  • Application hosting: Host applications on the cloud for better scalability and accessibility for your team.
  • AI and machine learning integration: Leverage AI capabilities to enhance your business processes and analytics.
  • Hybrid cloud software: Combine public and private cloud resources to balance flexibility and security.
  • Disaster recovery solutions: Ensure business continuity with plans that minimize downtime in case of a disaster.
  • Custom application development: Develop tailored applications that meet your specific business needs and improve efficiency.
  • Virtual desktops: Provide remote access to desktops, enabling flexible work environments and resource management.

Benefits of Cloud Managed Service Providers

Partnering with a cloud managed service provider offers several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:

  • Cost efficiency: Save on IT costs by using scalable resources and avoiding large upfront investments.
  • Enhanced security: Protect your data with continuous security monitoring and compliance management.
  • Scalability: Easily adjust resources to meet changing demands without disruption to your operations.
  • Expert support: Access specialized expertise and 24/7 support to resolve IT issues quickly and efficiently.
  • Focus on core business: Free up your team to concentrate on strategic initiatives rather than IT management.
  • Improved disaster recovery: Ensure business continuity with reliable data backup and recovery solutions.
  • Increased flexibility: Support remote work and collaboration with virtual desktops and cloud-hosted applications.

Costs and Pricing Structures of Cloud Managed Service Providers

Cloud managed service providers typically come at a custom price to accommodate various business needs, sizes, and circumstances. Providers generally work within one of the following pricing structures:

  • Subscription-based: Pay a recurring fee for ongoing services and support.
  • Project-based: Pay for services delivered within a specific project scope and timeline.
  • Usage-based: Pay according to the amount of resources or services consumed.
  • Tiered pricing: Choose from different levels of service packages based on your needs.
  • Scope of work (SOW): Pay based on the agreed deliverables and tasks outlined in a contract.

Key Factors That Influence Cloud Managed Service Providers' Pricing

Beyond the specific pricing model, here are some additional factors that can influence the cost of cloud managed service providers:

  • Customization needs: The more tailored the services, the higher the cost may be due to additional development and integration work.
  • Compliance requirements: Meeting industry-specific regulations can increase costs due to the need for specialized security measures.
  • Number of users: More users typically mean higher costs due to increased resource and support needs.
  • Service level agreements (SLAs): Higher levels of guaranteed uptime and support can lead to increased pricing.
  • Data storage needs: Large amounts of data storage can drive up costs due to the infrastructure required.

Being aware of these factors before you start seeking out custom quotes from providers helps you get a sense of what to expect and compare and contrast quotes more effectively.

Cloud Managed Service Providers: FAQs

Here are some answers to common questions about cloud managed service providers:

How do I choose the right cloud managed service provider?

To choose the right provider, focus on your specific business needs. Consider factors like the services they offer, their experience in your industry, and their pricing structures. Look for providers that align with your business objectives and can scale with your growth. It’s also important to review their customer support and service level agreements.

What should I expect during the onboarding process?

During onboarding, you can expect the provider to assess your current systems and understand your business needs. They’ll likely offer training resources and support to help your team transition smoothly. The goal is to integrate their services with minimal disruption to your operations, ensuring a seamless transition.

How do cloud managed service providers handle data security?

Providers typically implement advanced security measures to protect your data. This can include encryption, regular security audits, and compliance with industry regulations. They often offer continuous monitoring and threat detection to quickly address potential vulnerabilities, keeping your data safe.

Can cloud managed service providers help with regulatory compliance?

Yes, many providers offer services that help you meet industry-specific regulations. They can assist with data protection measures and compliance reporting, ensuring you adhere to standards like GDPR or HIPAA. This support can be crucial for businesses in heavily regulated industries.

How are service level agreements (SLAs) important?

SLAs define the level of service you can expect from your provider. They detail aspects like uptime guarantees, response times, and support availability. Reviewing SLAs helps you understand the provider’s commitments and ensures they align with your business needs and expectations.

What is the benefit of a hybrid cloud solution?

A hybrid cloud solution combines private and public cloud resources, offering flexibility and control. It allows you to keep sensitive data secure on a private cloud while leveraging the scalability of a public cloud for other operations. This setup can optimize costs and improve resource management.

What's Next?

Boost your SaaS growth and leadership skills. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest insights from CTOs and aspiring tech leaders. We'll help you scale smarter and lead stronger with guides, resources, and strategies from top experts!

Paulo Gardini Miguel
By Paulo Gardini Miguel

Paulo is the Director of Technology at the rapidly growing media tech company BWZ. Prior to that, he worked as a Software Engineering Manager and then Head Of Technology at Navegg, Latin America’s largest data marketplace, and as Full Stack Engineer at MapLink, which provides geolocation APIs as a service. Paulo draws insight from years of experience serving as an infrastructure architect, team leader, and product developer in rapidly scaling web environments. He’s driven to share his expertise with other technology leaders to help them build great teams, improve performance, optimize resources, and create foundations for scalability.