Side by side
Amazon Linux vs Fedora CoreOS
Both stand on server operating system. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxSelf-hosted
Choose AL2023 for AWS-oriented Linux deployments that need EC2 integration, selectable updates, and a support lifecycle through June 30, 2029. Consider AL2027 only for non-production preview workloads; its public preview is not covered by AWS Support agreements.
Visit Amazon Linux Free plan LinuxSelf-hosted
Pick Fedora CoreOS when you need a minimal Linux host for containerized workloads across physical, virtual, or cloud infrastructure. Look elsewhere if your applications are not containerized, since its stated application compatibility centers on containers.
Visit Fedora CoreOSThe facts
| Amazon Linux | Fedora CoreOS | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Self-hosted | Linux, Self-hosted |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 2 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | aws.amazon.com | fedoraproject.org |
| On server operating system | #3 of 29 | #7 of 29 |
Amazon Linux: what it does well
- AL2023 is optimized for EC2 and integrates with Systems Manager and AWS CLI.
- Versioned repositories let customers choose when to take updates.
- Kernel live patching can apply important fixes without downtime.
- Each AL2023 version receives five years of support.
- Container images can be used outside AWS, including local development.
What to know first
- AWS service and EC2 charges still apply to AL2023 use.
- AL2023 does not include Amazon Linux Extras.
- AWS Support agreements do not cover the AL2027 public preview.
- AWS recommends keeping production workloads on AL2023 until AL2027 general availability.
Fedora CoreOS: what it does well
- Free and open source within the Fedora ecosystem.
- Automatic operating system updates are built in.
- Ignition configuration is included.
- Supports bare metal, virtual machines, and cloud instances.
- Offers Stable, Testing, and Next release streams.
What to know first
- Application compatibility is centered on containerized applications and images.
- Image integrity checks are recommended as a separate step.
Alternatives to Amazon Linux Alternatives to Fedora CoreOS The whole list