☁️ AWS vs Azure vs GCP in 2025: Which Cloud Platform Should You Choose?

Tanvir MullaTanvir Mulla
3 min read

In today's cloud-first world, choosing the right platform is crucial for developers, DevOps engineers, and startups.

The top 3 cloud giants are:

  • 🟑 Amazon Web Services (AWS)

  • πŸ”΅ Microsoft Azure

  • πŸ”΄ Google Cloud Platform (GCP)

But which one is right for you? Let’s explore the differences, strengths, and best use cases in 2025! πŸ”

🧭 Market Share & Maturity

Cloud ProviderMarket Share (2025 est.)Launched
🟑 AWS~32%2006
πŸ”΅ Azure~23%2010
πŸ”΄ GCP~10%2008

βœ… AWS is the most mature and widely adopted platform, giving it an edge in services and documentation.

βš™οΈ Services: Breadth & Depth

AWS 🌐

  • 200+ services

  • Industry-leading in compute, storage, security, DevOps

  • Serverless with Lambda, containers with ECS/EKS

Azure πŸ”΅

  • Deep integration with Microsoft ecosystem

  • Best for enterprise IT, hybrid cloud, .NET apps

  • Azure DevOps, Azure Active Directory, etc.

GCP πŸ”΄

  • Strongest in AI/ML & Big Data

  • Tools like Vertex AI, TensorFlow, BigQuery

  • Cleaner UI & strong developer experience

πŸ“Š If you want versatility, go for AWS.
πŸ’Ό If you’re in enterprise environments, pick Azure.
πŸ€– If you love AI/ML & analytics, explore GCP.

🌍 Global Infrastructure

  • AWS: 33 Regions, 105 AZs – highest resilience

  • Azure: 65+ Regions – highest global reach

  • GCP: Efficient global backbone (same infra as YouTube & Google Search)

πŸ† Azure wins in region count, but AWS leads in availability zones and edge infrastructure.

πŸ› οΈ DevOps & CI/CD Tools

FeatureAWSAzureGCP
CI/CDCodePipelineAzure PipelinesCloud Build
Container OrchestrationECS, EKSAKSGKE (best in class)
IaCCloudFormationARM TemplatesDeployment Manager
Terraform Supportβœ… Fullβœ… Fullβœ… Full

πŸ“¦ AWS is the most DevOps-friendly overall.
🎯 GCP’s GKE is the best managed Kubernetes platform.
🧱 Azure Pipelines is great for enterprises with Microsoft workflows.

πŸ’Έ Pricing & Free Tiers

  • AWS: Pay-as-you-go, tiered, 12-month free tier

  • Azure: Competitive, similar model

  • GCP: Most generous for beginners ($300 credit over 90 days)

πŸ’‘ GCP wins for trial & experimentation.
AWS offers deep pricing tools like Cost Explorer and Savings Plans.

πŸ” Security & Compliance

All 3 platforms are highly secure, but:

  • AWS: Largest list of certifications, shared responsibility model is well-documented

  • Azure: Great for Active Directory and hybrid security

  • GCP: Focus on encryption, privacy, and built-in security defaults

πŸ”’ If you want enterprise-level security and compliance β€” AWS and Azure are your best bet.

🧠 When to Choose Which?

Use CaseBest Platform
General-purpose DevOps & startupsAWS 🟑
Enterprise workloads with MicrosoftAzure πŸ”΅
Big Data, Machine LearningGCP πŸ”΄
Hybrid cloud/on-prem integrationAzure πŸ”΅
Kubernetes at scaleGCP (GKE) πŸ”΄

🎯 Final Thoughts

So, which one should you learn?

  • βœ… AWS: Best for job opportunities and flexibility

  • βœ… Azure: Best if you're targeting enterprises or already use Microsoft products

  • βœ… GCP: Best for cutting-edge AI/ML, and startups on a budget

No matter where you start, understanding cloud fundamentals is key. Each platform has its strengths, and the skills are transferable. Learn one β€” and you’ll adapt easily to others!

☁️ Start with AWS if unsure. Then explore Azure & GCP based on projects, employers, or career goals.

πŸ’¬ Let's Connect!

Did you find this breakdown helpful? Follow me for more cloud, DevOps, and career tips. Drop a comment or share your cloud journey below! πŸ‘‡

☁️ Keep learning, keep building. πŸš€


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Written by

Tanvir Mulla
Tanvir Mulla

Hello, I'm Tanvir Mulla , an aspiring DevOps and Cloud Engineer with a strong passion for automation, continuous integration, and cloud technologies. Though I am at the beginning of my professional journey, I have dedicated myself to learning and building a solid foundation in the dynamic world of DevOps and Cloud Computing.