Compare the same requirement
Read every row against the application you intend to operate, then test the assumption named in the example.
Scroll horizontally to read every column on a small screen.
| Criterion | Managed platform | Self-managed VPS |
|---|---|---|
| Runtime | Supported build/runtime catalogue | Operator chooses installation |
| OS updates | Usually platform-owned | Customer-owned |
| Deployments | Platform workflow | Customer builds workflow |
| Scaling | Platform mechanisms | Resize and app tuning |
| Recovery | Platform product terms | Customer exports and restores |
Example choice
A supported web runtime with no host-specific dependency may suit a managed platform. A daemon requiring custom packages may justify VPS control and its update burden.
Decision
Choose the responsibility model your team can sustain after the first successful release.