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Amazon Web Services (AWS) vs Google Cloud Platform

Side-by-side comparison of Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud Platform. 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

Scalability
very high
Performance
very high
Learning Curve
moderate
Maturity
mature
Languages: Any (Platform service)

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

  • +Data/ML workloads
  • +Kubernetes preference
  • +Need global CDN

Avoid Google Cloud Platform when

  • -Need largest ecosystem
  • -Heavy enterprise support needs

Compliance & Security

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

SOC 2GDPRHIPAAPCI-DSS

Security Features

EncryptionAudit LogsRBACMFA

Google Cloud Platform

SOC 2GDPRHIPAAPCI-DSS

Security Features

EncryptionAudit LogsRBACMFA

Operations

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Maintenance
medium
Monitoring
medium
Backup/Recovery
moderate
Hosting: cloud

Google Cloud Platform

Maintenance
low
Monitoring
low
Backup/Recovery
simple
Hosting: managed

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Amazon Web Services (AWS) offers very-high scalability, while Google Cloud Platform 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?

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has a steep learning curve, while Google Cloud Platform has a moderate 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?

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 uses a usage-based pricing model starting at $0.020/GB storage, $0.12/GB network egress (free tier: $300 credit, Always Free products) 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?

Amazon Web Services (AWS) supports SOC 2, GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS. Google Cloud Platform 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?

Use our interactive decision tool for a personalized recommendation.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) vs Google Cloud Platform — CTO Technology Comparison | The Art of CTO