Vercel
- Optimized for Next.js sites and serverless functions
- Instant deployments from GitHub/GitLab/Bitbucket
- Unlimited bandwidth and storage for hobby projects
- Free SSL encryption
- Edge Network delivers sites and apps globally
- Integrates with headless CMSs like Contentful and Ghost
- Easy to add authentication provider
- Has free hobby tier and paid pro plans
- Limitations:
- 50 GB bandwidth per month for free accounts
- No custom plugins or modules
Netlify
- Continuous deployment from Git providers
- Integrates with many headless CMSs like Contentful and Ghost
- Flexible build settings and branch deploy controls
- Global CDN, free SSL, DDoS protection
- Can use Netlify Functions for serverless backend
- Open source Netlify Dev for local development
- 100 GB data transfer and 300 build minutes per month on free tier
- Limitations:
- Must upgrade for custom redirects
- No SSH or database access on free plan
GitHub Pages
- Host sites directly from GitHub repositories
- Easy workflow using Git and GitHub for pushing changes
- Supports Jekyll static site generator
- Integrates seamlessly with GitHub Actions workflows
- No strict limits on bandwidth or storage
- Free custom domains on GitHub's IP address
- Limitations:
- Sites must be purely static - no server-side code
- No database or advanced CMS support
- Slow build times compared to Vercel and Netlify
Comparison
| Vercel | Netlify | GitHub Pages | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optimized for | Next.js apps | Static sites | Static sites |
| Deploys from | Git providers | Git providers | GitHub only |
| Build Times | Very fast | Fast | Slow |
| Bandwidth Limits | 50GB (free) | 100GB (free) | None |
| Custom Domains | Free | Paid only | Free on GitHub IP |
| Serverless Functions | Yes | Netlify Functions | No |
| CMS Integrations | Contentful, Ghost | Contentful, Ghost, more | Through static site generators |
| Pricing | Free - $19/month | Free - $45/month | Free |
In summary, Vercel is best for Next.js apps, Netlify is the most flexible, and GitHub Pages is simplest overall. Consider bandwidth needs and desired features when choosing.
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