Amazon Web Services (AWS) vs PostgreSQL
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The world's most comprehensive cloud.
The world's most advanced open-source database.
The verdict
Both Amazon Web Services (AWS) and PostgreSQL are credible web hosting tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Amazon Web Services (AWS) — The world's most comprehensive cloud.
Choose PostgreSQL if you'd rather have broader platform coverage and a higher overall rating (4.8/5). The world's most advanced open-source database.
Amazon Web Services (AWS) vs PostgreSQL: side by side
| Dimension | Amazon Web Services (AWS) | PostgreSQL |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Usage-based | Open source |
| Best for | Enterprise, Developers | Developers, Everyone |
| Platforms | Web, Api | Self Hosted, Linux, Windows, MacWinner |
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.8/5Winner |
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
PostgreSQL key facts
- Vendor
- PostgreSQL Global Dev Group
- Pricing
- Open source — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Self Hosted, Linux, Windows, Mac
- Best for
- Developers, Everyone
- Editor rating
- 4.8 / 5
- Founded
- 1996
- Headquarters
- Open source
Frequently asked questions
Is Amazon Web Services (AWS) better than PostgreSQL?
Neither is universally better — PostgreSQL edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Amazon Web Services (AWS) or PostgreSQL cheaper?
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free. Amazon Web Services (AWS) starts at free; PostgreSQL starts at free.
Can Amazon Web Services (AWS) replace PostgreSQL?
Yes for most teams — both are web hosting tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.