Both Vercel and Netlify deploy your site from a git push. Both have CDNs, serverless functions, and generous free tiers. From the outside, they look identical. But the differences matter, especially as your project grows.
Framework support
Vercel is built by the team behind Next.js, and it shows. Next.js features like ISR, middleware, and server components work flawlessly on Vercel, often before they work anywhere else. Netlify supports Next.js too, but it's always playing catch-up. If you're using Next.js, Vercel is the obvious choice. For Astro, Hugo, or other static frameworks, Netlify is equally good.
Serverless functions
Vercel functions are tightly integrated with your framework. API routes in Next.js just work. Netlify Functions are separate files in a dedicated directory. Both work, but Vercel's approach feels more native. Netlify offers Edge Functions that run on Deno, which is interesting but less mature.
Build times and speed
Vercel's build infrastructure is consistently faster in our testing. Cold starts on serverless functions are also shorter. For most hobby projects this doesn't matter. For production apps serving real users, the difference is noticeable.
Pricing
Both free tiers are generous enough for personal projects and MVPs. At scale, Vercel's pricing can climb quickly, especially with heavy serverless usage. Netlify's pricing is more predictable. If budget matters and you're not using Next.js-specific features, Netlify often comes out cheaper. Compare with our tools directory for current pricing.
Developer experience
Vercel's dashboard is cleaner and faster. Deployment previews, analytics, and speed insights are built in. Netlify's dashboard is functional but feels older. Both have excellent CLIs. Vercel's integration with GitHub is slightly smoother for monorepos.
Forms and identity
Netlify has built-in form handling and identity management. No external service needed for contact forms or basic auth. Vercel doesn't offer these, so you'd need a separate service. If your site needs forms without a backend, Netlify has an advantage.
Our recommendation
Vercel if you're using Next.js, want the best DX, and need cutting-edge features. Netlify if you're using a static site generator, want predictable pricing, or need built-in forms. Both are excellent. You won't regret either choice. Vercel is our default pick in the Building Stack because most of our readers are building with Next.js.