Skip to main content

Amazon Web Services (AWS) vs Google Cloud Platform (GCP)

Side-by-side comparison of Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud Platform (GCP). Data-driven analysis for CTOs and engineering leaders.

Technical Profile

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Scalability
very high
Performance
very high
Learning Curve
steep
Maturity
mature
Languages: Multiple

Google Cloud Platform (GCP)

Scalability
very high
Performance
very high
Learning Curve
steep
Maturity
mature
Languages: Multiple

When to Use

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

  • +Need comprehensive services
  • +Global scale required
  • +Enterprise compliance
  • +Innovation leadership
  • +Established ecosystem

Avoid Amazon Web Services (AWS) when

  • -Simple workloads
  • -Cost is primary concern
  • -Small team
  • -Prefer simplicity

Google Cloud Platform (GCP)

  • +Data analytics workloads
  • +Machine learning projects
  • +Kubernetes-native applications
  • +Need BigQuery

Avoid Google Cloud Platform (GCP) when

  • -Heavy Windows/.NET workloads
  • -Need most services from one provider
  • -Limited to specific AWS services

Compliance & Security

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

SOC 2GDPRHIPAAPCI-DSS

Security Features

EncryptionAudit LogsRBACMFA

Google Cloud Platform (GCP)

SOC 2GDPRHIPAAPCI-DSS

Security Features

EncryptionAudit LogsRBACMFA

Operations

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Maintenance
medium
Monitoring
medium
Backup/Recovery
moderate
Hosting: cloud

Google Cloud Platform (GCP)

Maintenance
medium
Monitoring
medium
Backup/Recovery
moderate
Hosting: cloud

Frequently Asked Questions

How does scalability compare between Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud Platform (GCP)?

Amazon Web Services (AWS) offers very-high scalability, while Google Cloud Platform (GCP) offers very-high scalability. Consider your expected traffic and data volume when choosing.

Which has the easier learning curve: Amazon Web Services (AWS) or Google Cloud Platform (GCP)?

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has a steep learning curve, while Google Cloud Platform (GCP) has a steep learning curve. Factor in your team's existing skills and onboarding timeline.

What are the pricing differences between Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud Platform (GCP)?

Amazon Web Services (AWS) uses a usage-based pricing model starting at Pay-as-you-go, free tier available with a free tier. Google Cloud Platform (GCP) uses a usage-based pricing model starting at Pay-as-you-go, free tier available with a free tier. Evaluate total cost of ownership including operational overhead.

Which option is better for compliance: Amazon Web Services (AWS) or Google Cloud Platform (GCP)?

Amazon Web Services (AWS) supports SOC 2, GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS. Google Cloud Platform (GCP) supports SOC 2, GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS. Always verify current certifications directly with the vendor.

Need help deciding between Amazon Web Services (AWS) vs Google Cloud Platform (GCP)?

Use our interactive decision tool for a personalized recommendation.