AWS CloudFormation vs AWS CDK: Head-to-Head Comparison

Quick Verdict

AWS CloudFormation is the better pick for AWS-only shops wanting native IaC. AWS CDK is the better pick for AWS developers who want infrastructure in code.

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At a Glance

Feature	AWS CloudFormation	AWS CDK
Best For	AWS-only shops wanting native IaC	AWS developers who want infrastructure in code
Pricing	No extra charge for AWS resources	Free and open source
Free to Start	Yes	Yes
License	Proprietary	Open source
Deployment	Managed cloud	Library / framework in your stack
Link	Visit AWS CloudFormation	Visit AWS CDK

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Detailed Breakdown

AWS CloudFormation

Native AWS infrastructure as code

Pros:

• Native AWS service with no extra tooling
• Managed state
• StackSets for multi-account deployments

Cons:

• AWS only
• Verbose YAML and JSON templates

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AWS CDK

Define AWS infrastructure in TypeScript, Python and more

Pros:

• High-level constructs
• Real programming languages
• Synthesizes to CloudFormation

Cons:

• AWS focused
• Inherits CloudFormation limits

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Key Differences

• Positioning: AWS CloudFormation — native AWS infrastructure as code. AWS CDK — define AWS infrastructure in TypeScript, Python and more.
• Licensing differs: AWS CloudFormation is proprietary while AWS CDK is open source.
• Deployment: AWS CloudFormation — managed cloud. AWS CDK — library / framework in your stack.
• Pricing: AWS CloudFormation — no extra charge for AWS resources. AWS CDK — free and open source.
• Signature strength: AWS CloudFormation — native AWS service with no extra tooling. AWS CDK — high-level constructs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is AWS CloudFormation better than AWS CDK?

It depends on your requirements. AWS CloudFormation is a strong fit for AWS-only shops wanting native IaC, while AWS CDK suits AWS developers who want infrastructure in code.

Is AWS CloudFormation free to use?

Yes, you can start with AWS CloudFormation for free. Pricing model: No extra charge for AWS resources.

Is AWS CDK free to use?

Yes, you can start with AWS CDK for free. Pricing model: Free and open source.

Can I self-host AWS CloudFormation or AWS CDK?

AWS CloudFormation is offered as a managed service: managed cloud. AWS CDK runs inside your own stack: library / framework in your stack.

What are the main drawbacks of AWS CloudFormation and AWS CDK?

AWS CloudFormation: AWS only; verbose YAML and JSON templates. AWS CDK: AWS focused; inherits CloudFormation limits.