Fly.io vs Heroku: Head-to-Head Comparison

Quick Verdict

Fly.io is the better pick for globally distributed apps running in many regions. Heroku is the better pick for teams that want a mature, simple PaaS.

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At a Glance

Feature	Fly.io	Heroku
Best For	Globally distributed apps running in many regions	Teams that want a mature, simple PaaS
Pricing	Pay-as-you-go usage pricing	Paid plans; free trial available
Free to Start	No	No
License	Proprietary	Proprietary
Deployment	Managed cloud	Managed cloud
Link	Visit Fly.io	Visit Heroku

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Detailed Breakdown

Fly.io

Platform for running full-stack apps close to users

Pros:

• Runs apps in many regions
• Lightweight Firecracker microVMs
• Good for latency-sensitive apps

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve than simpler PaaS
• More operational responsibility

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Heroku

Pioneering platform as a service by Salesforce

Pros:

• Very simple git push deploys
• Mature add-on marketplace
• Well documented

Cons:

• No free dynos since 2022
• Higher cost than newer platforms

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Key Differences

• Positioning: Fly.io — platform for running full-stack apps close to users. Heroku — pioneering platform as a service by Salesforce.
• Both share the same licensing model (proprietary), so the decision comes down to features and workflow fit.
• Pricing: Fly.io — pay-as-you-go usage pricing. Heroku — paid plans; free trial available.
• Signature strength: Fly.io — runs apps in many regions. Heroku — very simple git push deploys.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fly.io better than Heroku?

It depends on your requirements. Fly.io is a strong fit for globally distributed apps running in many regions, while Heroku suits teams that want a mature, simple PaaS.

Is Fly.io free to use?

Fly.io does not have a permanent free plan. Pricing model: Pay-as-you-go usage pricing.

Is Heroku free to use?

Heroku does not have a permanent free plan. Pricing model: Paid plans; free trial available.

Can I self-host Fly.io or Heroku?

Fly.io is offered as a managed service: managed cloud. Heroku is offered as a managed service: managed cloud.

What are the main drawbacks of Fly.io and Heroku?

Fly.io: steeper learning curve than simpler PaaS; more operational responsibility. Heroku: no free dynos since 2022; higher cost than newer platforms.