The 24 Best Cloud PaaS Platforms to Watch
10 Best Cloud PaaS Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 24 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Navigating the cloud PaaS landscape can feel like deciphering a new language, but I've been there. At its core, a PaaS platform, like the renowned Google app engine, provides an environment where developers can build, deploy, and manage applications without wrestling with the complexities of underlying cloud infrastructure.
This means bypassing hassles associated with on-premises setups, operating systems like Windows or iOS, and even intricate tasks like load balancing. Your pains of dealing with service providers, juggling between cloud and on-premises, or managing middleware intricacies? They're what PaaS is here to alleviate.
What Is a Cloud PaaS?
Cloud Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) is a cloud computing service model that provides developers with the necessary tools and infrastructure to design, build, deploy, and manage applications without the complexities of maintaining underlying infrastructure.
With PaaS, organizations can efficiently scale applications, integrate with various services, and innovate faster, all while reducing the overhead of managing servers, networks, storage, and databases. Leveraging the best PaaS offers a command line to cloud-native microservices, intertwining SaaS and middleware, ensuring timely upgrades, and optimizing your development environment. It's the bridge between raw cloud resources and the application platform, ensuring your DevOps and net ambitions have the right runtime and infrastructure as a service.
Best Cloud PaaS Summary
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Google Cloud Google Cloud helps users manage, store, and access data and files for a low cost. | Best for cost-efficient cloud solutions | Free trial available | Pricing upon request | Website |
| 2 |  Zoho Creator Here is a screenshot of Zoho Creator's all device features. | Best for rapid app development | 15-day free trial | From $10/user/month (billed annually) + $20 base fee per month | Website |
| 3 |  EngineYard This screenshot describes the user interface for managing an environment in the EngineYard cloud. | Best for Ruby on Rails projects | Not available | Pricing upon request. | Website |
| 4 |  Oracle Cloud Platform This is a Cloud home page view screenshot from the Oracle Cloud Platform. | Best for enterprise database solutions | Not available | From $150/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| 5 |  Red Hat OpenShift Here's a screenshot of what the Red Hat OpenShift dashboard looks like. You can see the details, status, activity, and cluster metrics. | Best for Kubernetes integration | Free plan available | From $50/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| 6 |  IBM Cloud Foundry This image is a demo screenshot of how to deploy an app with IBM Cloud Foundry in just simple steps. | Best for hybrid cloud flexibility | Not available | From $7/user/month (this is a placeholder price as actual pricing might vary) | Website |
| 7 |  Aptible This dashboard provides a comprehensive report on Aptible's security and compliance controls. | Best for compliance-driven industries | Not available | From $200/user/month | Website |
| 8 |  AWS Elastic Beanstalk Here is an overview of deploying web applications using AWS Elastic Beanstalk. | Best for AWS-native applications | Not available | From $7/user/month (this is a placeholder price as actual pricing might vary) | Website |
| 9 |  Azure App Service Take a look at the Azure App Service deployment center tab. | Best for integrated Microsoft ecosystems | Free plan available | From $7/user/month (this is a placeholder price as actual pricing might vary) | Website |
| 10 |  Heroku This is how to create a new app with Heroku. You can add a pipeline to form a continuous deployment workflow and allow additional features. | Best for developer-friendly environments | Free demo | From $7/user/month (this is a placeholder price as actual pricing might vary) | Website |
Best Cloud PaaS Reviews
Google Cloud is an advanced cloud computing platform offered by Google that provides a wide range of services and solutions. It encompasses various technology areas including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), application development, data analytics, databases, and security.
Why I Picked Google Cloud: Google Cloud stands out due to its extensive range of features and benefits tailored to meet diverse business needs. One of the key advantages of Google Cloud is its security infrastructure. With several dedicated security experts, the software ensures that data is encrypted and protected across all applications, providing businesses with peace of mind regarding their data security. Additionally, Google Cloud's comprehensive support options, including premium plans with rapid response times and a vast community of tech enthusiasts, ensure that users receive timely assistance and can resolve issues efficiently.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Google Cloud offers numerous features including AI solutions and machine learning, application development and hosting, data analytics and pipelines, networking tools, top-end security, resource access, and client libraries. It also provides deep integration with Google Analytics, Google Calendar, Google Docs, Cloud Search, BigQuery, AlloyDB, and more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Live migration with minimal downtime
- Big data tools for data warehousing and processing
- Quick collaboration across different locations
Cons:
- Potential documentation gaps
- Limited data centers
Zoho Creator offers a platform that simplifies application development by offering drag-and-drop tools and a suite of pre-built applications. This flexibility accelerates the development process and allows for rapid deployment of apps tailored to specific business needs.
Why I Picked Zoho Creator: I chose Zoho Creator after comparing its capabilities with other contenders. Its user-friendly interface and robust features make it a front-runner in the PaaS domain. I determined that for businesses or developers looking to quickly roll out functional applications, Zoho Creator is unmatched. It truly stands out as the best for rapid app development.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Zoho Creator boasts a visual builder, making it easier for non-developers to design apps. With multi-language support, it breaks barriers and reaches global audiences. It also offers integrations with major Zoho suite products, streamlining processes and enhancing overall productivity.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integration with the Zoho suite
- Comprehensive multi-language support
- User-friendly visual builder
Cons:
- Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors
- Some advanced features require knowledge of Zoho's scripting language
- Might be overwhelming for absolute beginners
EngineYard is a cloud-based platform-as-a-service (PaaS) designed to help developers manage, deploy, and scale Ruby on Rails applications. Given its focused expertise and tailored infrastructure, it is an exceptional choice for those working primarily with Ruby on Rails.
Why I Picked EngineYard: In determining which platforms to include in this list, EngineYard's reputation for specialization in Ruby on Rails projects became evident. Comparing it to other platforms, its tailored environment and tools for Ruby developers make it distinctly different. For those working with Ruby on Rails, I genuinely think it's the best choice due to its custom configurations and dedicated resources.
Standout Features & Integrations:
One of EngineYard's paramount features is its deep optimization for Ruby on Rails applications, ensuring optimal performance. Moreover, the platform offers database replication, backup solutions, and advanced monitoring capabilities for application health.
In terms of integrations, EngineYard integrates easily with prominent cloud providers, enhancing the deployment process. It also offers integration with common development tools and version control systems like GitHub, making it easier for developers to keep their workflows consistent.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy integrations with major cloud providers
- Advanced monitoring capabilities tailored for Rails applications
- Specialized for Ruby on Rails, ensuring optimal configurations
Cons:
- Could have a steeper learning curve for those unfamiliar with Ruby on Rails
- Some developers might desire a broader range of built-in tools
- Might not be the best choice for non-Ruby projects
Oracle Cloud Platform specializes in offering a robust suite of services that cater to database management, application development, and business analytics. With its strong lineage in database technology, Oracle Cloud emerges as a strong contender for businesses that prioritize high-end, reliable database solutions in an enterprise setting.
Why I Picked Oracle Cloud Platform: While evaluating various cloud platforms, the prowess of Oracle in database technology was undeniable. By comparing its offerings with others, I determined that Oracle Cloud Platform's distinct edge lies in its advanced database capabilities and the extensive enterprise-focused toolset it brings to the table.
For businesses that emphasize enterprise database solutions, I have the opinion that this platform offers a superior proposition.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Oracle Cloud Platform boasts of autonomous databases that employ AI to optimize performance, security, and repair. The platform also offers a range of tools for developers, including Oracle APEX for low-code application development. Integration with various enterprise systems such as ERP, CRM, and HCM ensures workflows for businesses.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integrations with enterprise systems
- Comprehensive developer tools, including low-code options
- Advanced autonomous database capabilities
Cons:
- Some users might experience a steep learning curve with advanced features
- Pricing can be on the higher side for smaller operations
- Can be complex for beginners or small businesses
Red Hat OpenShift is a comprehensive enterprise Kubernetes platform that simplifies container orchestration and management. Given the rapid adoption of Kubernetes in the tech world, OpenShift stands as a beacon for those looking to integrate and deploy containerized applications effortlessly.
Why I Picked Red Hat OpenShift: In my selection process, the tight integration of Kubernetes in OpenShift emerged as a game-changer. Having compared it to other platforms, I found that OpenShift's native Kubernetes support and its additional toolset set it apart. I firmly believe it's the best choice for businesses that prioritize Kubernetes integration in their operations.
Standout Features & Integrations:
OpenShift's developer-friendly console and CLI provide users with tools for developing, deploying, and managing containerized applications. The platform also offers automated service provisioning and scaling, which optimizes resource usage. Integrations with Jenkins, Git, and Maven among others, allow for continuous integration and delivery workflows.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated service provisioning and scaling
- Rich set of developer tools for CI/CD
- Native Kubernetes support
Cons:
- Some configurations can be complex for beginners
- Higher initial costs than some competitors
- Steeper learning curve for non-Kubernetes users
IBM Cloud Foundry is a powerful open-source cloud platform as a service (PaaS) designed to facilitate application deployment, management, and scaling. What sets it apart is its native ability to support hybrid cloud configurations, ensuring that businesses have both the agility of public clouds and the security of private clouds.
Why I Picked IBM Cloud Foundry: In my journey of determining the right platforms for specific needs, IBM Cloud Foundry stood out particularly because of its inherent hybrid cloud support. I had opinions leaning toward platforms that can provide both public and private cloud utilities without creating complexities.
IBM Cloud Foundry is notably 'best for hybrid cloud flexibility' as it blends the scalability of public clouds with the controlled environment of private clouds.
Standout Features & Integrations:
One salient feature of IBM Cloud Foundry is its easy support for multiple programming languages and frameworks, making application deployment diverse and convenient. Additionally, the platform is backed by IBM's rich history of technology services, including Watson, IoT, and data analytics services.
When it comes to integrations, IBM Cloud Foundry interfaces effortlessly with IBM's other services, creating a unified ecosystem. Furthermore, the platform connects with several third-party tools and systems, ensuring adaptability and broad functionality.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Native support for hybrid cloud configurations
- Backed by IBM’s diverse range of complementary services
- Provides a robust environment supporting multiple languages and frameworks
Cons:
- Certain customization options may require deeper technical knowledge
- Pricing can become intricate given the array of service options
- Learning curve might be steep for those new to IBM’s ecosystem
Aptible offers a platform specifically designed to manage, monitor, and ensure compliance for sensitive data and regulated industries. It aids businesses in navigating the maze of regulatory requirements while offering robust deployment environments for applications.
Why I Picked Aptible: In the process of judging various platforms, I determined that Aptible has a unique position in the cloud PaaS landscape. I chose it for its emphasis on compliance-first processes and its robust environment suitable for sensitive industries. For businesses prioritizing regulatory compliance, Aptible seems the best fit, making it the clear choice for compliance-driven industries.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Aptible's Enclave containers provide a secure environment for applications, ensuring sensitive data remains protected. The platform also has inbuilt logging and auditing tools, essential for tracking compliance activities. Its deep integrations with popular databases like PostgreSQL, MySQL, and Redis mean it can cater to a variety of backend needs.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive logging and auditing tools
- Secure Enclave containers for application deployment
- Focused on regulatory compliance
Cons:
- Might be overkill for businesses not in regulated industries
- Pricing can be steep for small businesses
- Learning curve for those new to compliance-oriented platforms
AWS Elastic Beanstalk is a fully managed service within the Amazon Web Services (AWS) ecosystem that enables users to deploy, monitor, and scale applications with ease. Its primary attraction lies in its deep integration with other AWS services, making it a prime choice for applications that are rooted within the AWS framework.
Why I Picked AWS Elastic Beanstalk: In selecting tools for this list, AWS Elastic Beanstalk naturally caught my attention due to its close-knit design for AWS applications. When comparing various platforms, it stood out for its integration and automation capabilities within the AWS environment. I judged it to be the 'best for AWS-native applications' since it offers streamlined processes for those deeply invested in AWS services.
Standout Features & Integrations:
AWS Elastic Beanstalk automates the infrastructure setup, freeing developers from managing the underlying resources. Additionally, it offers health monitoring, which provides insights into the application's operational state.
For integrations, AWS Elastic Beanstalk effortlessly connects with Amazon RDS, Amazon S3, and AWS Lambda, among others. These integrations pave the way for extensive customizations and enhancements of in-app functionality without the hassles of manual setups.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Deep integration with other AWS services
- Simplified deployment process with pre-configured templates
- Automatic scaling according to application needs
Cons:
- Potential costs when using multiple AWS services in conjunction
- Configuration options might be overwhelming for beginners
- Requires familiarity with the AWS ecosystem
Azure App Service offers a comprehensive solution to build, deploy, and scale web apps and APIs easily. Developed by Microsoft, this platform integrates effortlessly with other Microsoft tools, catering particularly to businesses already entrenched in the Microsoft ecosystem.
Why I Picked Azure App Service: In the process of selecting platforms, Azure App Service continually caught my attention. Its alignment with Microsoft's wide range of tools made it an obvious choice for businesses relying on Microsoft services. I believe Azure App Service is 'best for integrated Microsoft ecosystems' because it provides a cohesive environment, enabling developers to leverage familiar tools and services from the same tech family.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Azure App Service stands out with its support for a variety of programming languages, enabling developers to use their preferred language. Furthermore, the platform's auto-scaling capabilities ensure web apps can handle varying loads without manual intervention.
For integrations, Azure App Service integrates deeply with other Azure services like Azure Active Directory, Azure SQL Database, and Cosmos DB. Additionally, it offers connectors for many non-Microsoft services, expanding its utility beyond just the Microsoft ecosystem.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Features auto-scaling for handling traffic spikes
- Supports a wide array of programming languages
- Comprehensive integration with Microsoft services
Cons:
- Costs can accumulate quickly with multiple Azure services in use
- Integration with non-Microsoft tools might require additional configurations
- Might be overwhelming for users new to the Azure ecosystem
Heroku is a cloud platform-as-a-service (PaaS) that aids developers in deploying, managing, and scaling applications. Its intuitive environment is tailor-made to offer a developer-centric experience, making it a top choice for those prioritizing ease of use and efficiency in their development workflows.
Why I Picked Heroku: When choosing platforms, I weighed the merits of each in terms of developer experience. Heroku emerged distinctly for its commitment to streamlining the deployment process and minimizing administrative headaches. I deem Heroku to be best for creating developer-friendly environments because it abstracts much of the infrastructure management, allowing developers to focus purely on their code.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Heroku stands out for its Dynos, which are lightweight containers that run applications, ensuring flexibility and scalability. Additionally, the platform boasts an extensive marketplace with various plugins and services tailored for application enhancement and monitoring.
Integration-wise, Heroku connects smoothly with leading databases such as PostgreSQL, MySQL, and MongoDB. Furthermore, it supports integration with popular version control platforms, especially GitHub, simplifying the continuous deployment and integration processes.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Direct integrations with leading databases and version control platforms
- Extensive marketplace with a wide array of add-ons and services
- Intuitive interface that minimizes deployment complexities
Cons:
- Platform-specific constraints could necessitate specific architectural decisions
- Some users might find the abstraction too limiting in certain scenarios
- Potential cost increments as the application scales
Other Noteworthy Cloud PaaS
Below is a list of additional cloud PaaS that I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 12. They are definitely worth checking out.
- Plesk
Good for web professionals managing multiple sites
- Vercel
Good for frontend and serverless deployment
- Cloudways
Good for managed cloud hosting
- Google Cloud Knative
Good for serverless workloads on Kubernetes
- Platform.sh
Good for managing web application fleets
- Azure Functions
Good for serverless event-driven computing
- Cloud Foundry
Good for multi-cloud application development
- AppFog
Good for PaaS deployment simplification
- Netlify
Good for modern Jamstack applications
- PythonAnywhere
Good for Python developers needing online IDEs
Selection Criteria for Choosing the Best Cloud PaaS
Having navigated the vast landscape of cloud deployment software, I've tried out more than 30 tools, rigorously assessing their capabilities and fit for different use cases. My journey of testing has been driven by a clear vision of what an ideal tool in this category should bring to the table. The criteria I've prioritized are based on real-world needs and challenges faced by users like you and me.
Core Functionality
- Automated deployment: Tools should allow for push-button deployments, making updates efficient and consistent.
- Scalability management: Adjust resources based on demand, be it auto-scaling or manual resource allocation.
- Multi-platform support: Compatibility with leading platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure, among others.
- Continuous integration: Automated processes to check, test, and deploy code changes.
Key Features
- Version Control Integration: Easy synchronization with platforms like Git or SVN, enabling swift code-to-deployment workflows.
- Rollback Capabilities: When deployments don't go as planned, the tool should offer the capability to revert to a stable version swiftly.
- Environment Isolation: Dedicated environments for testing, staging, and production, ensuring code is tested in isolated settings before going live.
- Logging and Monitoring: Real-time insights into application performance, error tracking, and user activity.
- Security Protocols: Built-in security measures, such as SSL certificates, firewall configurations, and regular vulnerability assessments.
Usability
- Centralized Dashboard: A unified view of all deployment activities, resources, and application status to help users quickly discern the health and status of deployments.
- Intuitive Workflow Set-Up: Logical sequence for setting up deployment pipelines, ensuring users don't miss vital steps.
- Contextual Help and Tooltips: As users navigate through the tool, timely assistance or clarifications on functionalities should be readily available.
- Role-based Access: Clearly defined permissions and roles, ensuring that team members only access features relevant to their responsibilities.
- Comprehensive Documentation and Training: Given the complexity of cloud deployments, tools need to offer detailed guides, tutorials, and support resources to assist both novice and experienced users.
Most Common Questions Regarding Cloud PaaS (FAQ's)
What are the primary benefits of using Cloud PaaS tools?
Cloud PaaS (Platform as a Service) tools offer several distinct advantages:
- Simplified Deployment: Cloud PaaS provides streamlined processes for deploying applications, eliminating infrastructure setup tasks.
- Scalability: These tools automatically adjust resources based on demand, ensuring that applications can handle increasing users or workloads.
- Multi-Platform Integration: PaaS solutions integrate easily with leading cloud platforms, offering versatility in deployment environments.
- Maintenance and Updates: PaaS providers manage infrastructure maintenance and updates, allowing developers to focus on coding.
- Cost-Efficiency: By outsourcing infrastructure management, businesses can reduce the overheads associated with in-house server setups and maintenance.
How do these Cloud PaaS tools typically price their offerings?
Cloud PaaS tools generally adopt a pay-as-you-go pricing model. This means users are billed based on their actual usage of resources, like storage, bandwidth, and compute power. Some providers may also offer subscription-based pricing, where users pay a fixed amount monthly or annually for a package of services.
What's the typical price range for these tools?
The pricing range can vary significantly based on the provider and the complexity of the services offered. For basic PaaS services, costs could start as low as $10/month, whereas comprehensive enterprise solutions might range from $100 to over $1000/month.
Which are some of the cheapest Cloud PaaS software options available?
Tools like PythonAnywhere and Heroku offer relatively affordable solutions, with basic tiers starting at a low monthly rate.
Are there any notably expensive Cloud PaaS tools on the market?
Enterprise-grade solutions like those offered by AWS Elastic Beanstalk or Google Cloud Platform’s PaaS services can be on the higher end of the price spectrum, especially when availing advanced features or handling vast amounts of data and traffic.
Are there free Cloud PaaS options available?
Yes, several PaaS providers offer free tiers. However, these are typically limited in terms of resources, functionalities, or usage hours. Examples include the free tiers of Heroku, PythonAnywhere, and Google Cloud Platform.
Why would a business choose a free PaaS option?
Free tiers are ideal for startups, individual developers, or small businesses that need to host lightweight applications, prototypes, or test environments. It gives them a chance to explore the tool’s capabilities without incurring costs.
What factors impact the pricing of Cloud PaaS tools?
Several factors can influence the cost:
- Volume of Resources: The amount of storage, bandwidth, or compute power you use.
- Features and Add-Ons: Advanced features or integrations might come at an extra charge.
- SLAs and Support: Premium support or guaranteed uptimes can increase costs.
- Data Transfer and Location: Moving data in and out of the cloud, or choosing specific regional data centers, can affect pricing.
Other Cloud Infrastructure Tool Reviews
- PaaS Software
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- Cloud Infrastructure Monitoring Tools
Summary
Selecting the right cloud PaaS for your use case hinges on understanding the unique offerings of each platform and aligning them with your specific needs. With a multitude of options available in the market, ranging from tools optimized for specific ecosystems like AWS-native applications to those tailored for scalable app infrastructures, there's a solution for every requirement.
Key Takeaways
- Define your needs: Before diving into the options, have a clear understanding of what you expect from a PaaS solution - be it scalability, specific integrations, or affordability.
- Consider usability and support: Beyond core functionalities, the design, ease of onboarding, and quality of customer support are crucial determinants of how smoothly you can deploy and manage your applications.
- Cost vs. value: While pricing is an essential factor, it's crucial to weigh the costs against the value offered. Some platforms might have higher upfront costs but can save resources and time in the long run. Always consider the total value provided, not just the price tag.
What Do You Think?
Of course, the cloud PaaS landscape is vast and ever-evolving. While I've tried to cover some of the best tools in this guide, there are undoubtedly others out there that offer great value. If you're using or know of a tool that I haven't mentioned but believe deserves a spot on the list, please let me know. I am always eager to learn about new and efficient solutions that can benefit my community.
Your suggestions and insights are invaluable in ensuring this guide remains comprehensive and up-to-date.