Hosting4u

Amazon Web Services vs Microsoft Azure

2026 comparison on prices, plans, regions and editorial verdict.

Amazon Web Services
Amazon Web Services

The broadest catalogue on the market. Charges for EVERYTHING.

4.4
4 plans 20 regions Since 2006
Microsoft Azure
Microsoft Azure

Microsoft's cloud. Strong integration with Windows Server, AD, M365.

4.3
3 plans 19 regions Since 2010

Side-by-side comparison

FeatureAmazon Web ServicesMicrosoft Azure
From$3.5/mes$7.59/mes
Plans43
Regions2019
HQSeattle, EEUURedmond, EEUU
Categories
VPSVDSDedicated serverS3 storageManaged hostingCDN
VPSVDSS3 storageManaged hostingCDN
Rating4.4/54.3/5

Amazon Web Services

The enterprise default. Unrivalled for flexibility and global network, but the bill surprises almost everyone.

Pros

  • 33+ regions
  • Spot instances 70-90% off
  • Advanced managed services
  • IAM granular

Cons

  • Expensive egress fees ($0.09/GB)
  • Complex per-component pricing
  • Premium support billed separately
  • Steep learning curve

Microsoft Azure

Best fit if you already pay Microsoft. For pure Linux there are cheaper options.

Pros

  • 60+ regions
  • Hybrid Benefit lowers Windows cost
  • Compliance certifications

Cons

  • Complex pricing (similar to AWS)
  • Expensive egress
  • Portal UI sometimes slow

Category overlap

Both offer

VPSVDSS3 storageManaged hostingCDN

Only Amazon Web Services

Dedicated server

Only Microsoft Azure

Frequently asked questions

Amazon Web Services or Microsoft Azure: which is cheaper?

Amazon Web Services from $3.5/mo vs Microsoft Azure from $7.59/mo. Amazon Web Services is cheaper on its entry plan.

Which provider has better region coverage?

Amazon Web Services offers 20 regions. Microsoft Azure offers 19 regions.

Which has the better editorial rating?

Amazon Web Services: 4.4/5 · Microsoft Azure: 4.3/5.