Amazon Web Services (AWS) vs Microsoft Azure
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The world's most comprehensive cloud.
Microsoft's enterprise cloud.
The verdict
Choose AWS for the broadest service catalog and largest ecosystem. Choose Azure if you're a Microsoft shop wanting hybrid cloud and tight 365/AD integration. Both are enterprise-grade; the deciding factor is usually your existing stack.
Amazon Web Services (AWS) vs Microsoft Azure: side by side
| Dimension | Amazon Web Services (AWS) | Microsoft Azure |
|---|---|---|
| Breadth of services | LargestWinner | Very broad |
| Enterprise / hybrid | Strong | Best (with Microsoft)Winner |
| Free tier | Yes | Yes |
Amazon Web Services (AWS) key facts
- Vendor
- Amazon
- Pricing
- Usage-based — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Api
- Best for
- Enterprise, Developers
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 2006
- Headquarters
- Seattle, WA, USA
Microsoft Azure key facts
- Vendor
- Microsoft
- Pricing
- Usage-based — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Api
- Best for
- Enterprise, Microsoft Shops
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 2010
- Headquarters
- Redmond, WA, USA