Coolify vs Heroku
Self-host swap-in for Heroku. · Self-host Heroku · Coolify on os-alt
Coolify is one of the open-source self-host replacements for Heroku — license Apache-2.0, 10min (single-line bash installer) to stand up, and $10 vps for the controller + apps. Compare against Heroku's $5-25/dyno/mo for app dynos; add-ons billed separately below.
| Coolifyopen-source | Herokupaid SaaS | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | App platform / git-push deploy | App platform / git-push deploy |
| License / pricing | Apache-2.0 | $5-25/dyno/mo for app dynos; add-ons billed separately |
| Starting price | $0 self-host | $5/user/mo |
| GitHub | coollabsio/coolify | closed source |
| Setup time | 10min (single-line bash installer) | SaaS — sign up + bill |
| Monthly cost | $10 VPS for the controller + apps. | from $5/user/mo ($5-25/dyno/mo for app dynos; add-ons billed separately) |
Switching from Heroku to Coolify
Coolify imports a GitHub repo and builds via Nixpacks (Heroku's buildpack spiritual successor). Add Postgres / Redis as Coolify resources, then `pg_dump | psql` from Heroku.
- Good fit for
- Teams that want a UI + multi-server + databases in one tool.
- Weak at
- Heavier than Dokku; less of a 'pure' Heroku feel.
Other open-source self-host alternatives to Heroku
Coolify also replaces
- Vercel— Frontend hosting / serverless deploy
In a terminal? npx os-alt heroku prints Heroku's self-host options —
how the CLI works →
FAQ
Is Coolify a free alternative to Heroku?
Yes — Coolify is open source under Apache-2.0. Self-host cost: $10 VPS for the controller + apps.. Heroku starts at $5/user/mo ($5-25/dyno/mo for app dynos; add-ons billed separately).
How long does Coolify take to set up vs Heroku?
Self-hosting Coolify: 10min (single-line bash installer). Heroku is a hosted SaaS — sign up and you're in.
What is Coolify good at, and what is it weak at?
Good fit for: Teams that want a UI + multi-server + databases in one tool.. Weak at: Heavier than Dokku; less of a 'pure' Heroku feel..