Side by side
Cluster API vs KubeSphere
Both stand on kubernetes management platforms. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APILinuxMac+2
Cluster API provides declarative lifecycle management for multiple Kubernetes clusters, with interchangeable providers and two paths for managing provider components. Its provisioning scope has clear boundaries, and production use calls for a managed management cluster and provider due diligence.
Visit Cluster API
Free plan Open source APILinuxSelf-hosted+1
KubeSphere pairs a free self-managed Community Edition with an Enterprise offering that adds security, permissions, and support options. Teams should compare the editions and contact sales for Enterprise pricing.
Visit KubeSphereThe facts
| Cluster API | KubeSphere | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | API, Linux, Self-hosted, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | KubeSphere Backup Basic: $65 a month |
| Plans published | 1 | 7 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | cluster-api.sigs.k8s.io | kubesphere.io |
| On kubernetes management platforms | #4 of 29 | #1 of 29 |
Cluster API: what it does well
- Free and open source.
- Supports cluster creation, scaling, upgrades, and destruction.
- Works across cloud and on-premises environments.
- Offers clusterctl and Operator management paths.
- Lists many infrastructure provider environments.
What to know first
- Requires an existing Kubernetes cluster accessible through kubectl.
- Does not manage clusters it did not provision.
- Cannot manage one cluster spanning multiple infrastructure providers.
- Users manage the control plane.
KubeSphere: what it does well
- Community Edition is free forever and self-managed
- Supports multi-tenancy and multi-cluster management
- Includes Jenkins-based CI/CD workflows
- Supports online or offline installation
What to know first
- Enterprise pricing requires contacting sales
- Enterprise extensions are available by subscription
- Community Edition is self-managed
Alternatives to Cluster API Alternatives to KubeSphere The whole list