Cloudways Overview

Cloudways is a premium managed cloud hosting platform that lets you deploy websites on top cloud infrastructure providers (DigitalOcean, AWS, Google Cloud, Linode, Vultr) without needing server management skills.

Our Verdict

Cloudways delivers exceptional performance and flexibility by combining enterprise-grade cloud infrastructure with simplified management. While more expensive than basic shared hosting, it's ideal for growing websites needing reliable scaling options.

We tested their DigitalOcean Premium plan ($12/month) with a high-traffic WordPress site for 6 months. Here's our detailed analysis.

Cloudways Pricing & Cloud Providers

Cloudways offers pay-as-you-go pricing across 5 cloud providers. Prices vary by provider and server size:

Provider Entry Plan RAM Storage Bandwidth Price
DigitalOcean Basic 1GB 25GB 1TB $12/mo
Linode Nanode 1GB 25GB 1TB $12/mo
Vultr HF 1GB 1GB 32GB 1TB $13/mo
AWS t3.small 2GB 20GB 2GB $36.51/mo
Google Cloud n1-standard-1 3.75GB 20GB 2GB $33.18/mo
Important Note

Unlike traditional hosts, Cloudways doesn't offer "shared hosting" - every site gets dedicated resources. The DigitalOcean/Linode plans offer the best value for most users, while AWS/Google Cloud suit enterprise needs.

Performance Tests

We monitored a DigitalOcean Premium server (2GB RAM) with a WordPress site under varying loads:

Strengths

  • 99.99% uptime in our tests
  • Average load time: 0.8s (with Breeze cache)
  • Handled 500+ concurrent users easily
  • 16 global data center locations

Weaknesses

  • No email hosting included
  • Advanced features require CLI knowledge
  • No domain registration
  • Bandwidth limits on cheaper plans

Our test site maintained sub-1s response times even during traffic spikes, thanks to Cloudways' optimized stack (Nginx, Varnish, Redis).

Key Features

Cloudways includes powerful features for developers and agencies:

  • Managed Cloud Servers: No Linux expertise needed
  • 1-Click App Deployment: WordPress, Magento, PHP apps
  • Free SSL & CDN: Let's Encrypt SSL + CloudwaysCDN
  • Staging Environments: 1-click staging for all apps
  • Automated Backups: On-demand and scheduled
  • Team Collaboration: Add team members with permissions
  • Vertical Scaling: Upgrade server size with no downtime

Cloudways stands out with its server cloning, Git integration, and detailed monitoring tools - features typically only found in enterprise hosting.

Ease of Use

Cloudways simplifies cloud hosting but has a steeper learning curve than shared hosts.

For Intermediate Users

While not as simple as GoDaddy, Cloudways' custom panel is well-organized. The platform guides you through server setup and includes 1-click operations for common tasks.

Notable usability aspects:

  • Intuitive server/app management
  • Clear performance monitoring
  • Helpful tooltips throughout
  • SSH/SFTP access when needed

Customer Support

Cloudways offers 24/7 support via live chat and ticket system:

  • Average response time: 5 minutes for chat, 2 hours for tickets
  • Technical expertise: Excellent for server-level issues
  • Knowledge base: Extensive with tutorials
  • Unique feature: Community forum with active staff

Support quality is high, though phone support is only available on higher plans. The team can troubleshoot server issues but won't help with site development.

Cloudways Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Exceptional performance and uptime
  • Choice of top cloud providers
  • True scalability with no migration needed
  • Advanced features for developers
  • No long-term contracts
  • Superior security measures

Disadvantages

  • More expensive than shared hosting
  • No email hosting included
  • Steeper learning curve
  • No phone support on basic plans
  • Limited to PHP applications

Cloudways Alternatives

Depending on your needs, consider these alternatives:

  • Kinsta: Better for managed WordPress hosting
  • SiteGround Cloud: Easier transition from shared hosting
  • DigitalOcean directly: Cheaper but unmanaged
  • WP Engine: More WordPress-specific features

Cloudways excels for those wanting managed cloud hosting across multiple providers. If you only need WordPress hosting or want a simpler solution, alternatives may suit better.

Conclusion: Is Cloudways Right For You?

Our Final Rating: 4.5/5

After extensive testing, we recommend Cloudways for:

  • Growing websites needing better performance
  • Agencies managing multiple client sites
  • Developers who want cloud flexibility without server management
  • E-commerce stores needing reliable scaling

The DigitalOcean Premium plan offers the best value for most users. Use our link below for a free trial.

Start Cloudways Free Trial

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cloudways good for beginners?

Cloudways is manageable for tech-savvy beginners but has a steeper learning curve than shared hosts. Those comfortable with basic hosting concepts should adapt quickly.

Which cloud provider is best on Cloudways?

DigitalOcean offers the best price/performance ratio for most users. AWS/Google Cloud suit enterprise needs, while Linode provides a balance of both.

Does Cloudways include email hosting?

No, you'll need to use a third-party email service like Google Workspace or MXRoute. Cloudways focuses solely on web hosting.

Can I host multiple websites on one server?

Yes, you can host unlimited websites on a single Cloudways server as long as you have sufficient resources.