Hetzner Server Comparison

Cloud

Virtual servers that provide CPU resources within a shared physical host server. Prices do not include VAT.

Dedicated vCPU

Hetzner’s Dedicated vCPU options offer good value for projects needing consistent, high-performance CPU access. Dedicated vCPUs allocate exclusive CPU resources to each instance, while Shared vCPU means performance can vary based on the demand from other users on the same server. Steady and reliable performance is crucial for workloads like production applications, large databases and performance-sensitive tasks.

Shared vCPU

The Ampere-based CAX series emerges as the undisputed value champion. The value scores consistently outperform both AMD EPYC and Intel Xeon alternatives. What's particularly remarkable is how the CAX line maintains its cost-efficiency as you scale up which is rare in cloud computing where higher tiers typically come with diminishing returns.

When comparing with other CPU architectures, the contrast becomes stark. The closest competitor, the AMD EPYC-powered CPX21, reaches slightly lower value scores, while Intel Xeon options trail even further behind. This data clearly demonstrates why the Ampere-based CAX series has become the go-to choice for cost-conscious businesses seeking reliable cloud performance.

Dedicated

Physical servers exclusively reserved for one user. Prices do not include VAT. Lowest options have been chosen for RAM and Storage.

The standout performer is the EX44, equipped with an Intel Core i5-13500. At €44.00 monthly it offers a compelling combination of 31857 PassMark points in multi-thread performance, a strong single-thread score of 3884 and comes with 64GB RAM and dual 512GB NVMe SSDs.

Following closely is the AX42 powered by AMD's Ryzen 7 PRO 8700GE. At €49.00 per month it delivers 27882 PassMark points and matches the EX44's storage and RAM specifications.

The AX52 featuring the Ryzen 7 7700 maintains strong value at €64.00 monthly, offering enhanced performance with 34622 PassMark points.

What's particularly interesting is how the higher-end models maintain relatively good value despite their premium positioning. The AX162 series featuring the powerful AMD EPYC 9454P with 95918 PassMark points at €199.00 monthly - impressive for a server of this caliber. With extremely high storage value, SX65 is excellent for storage-heavy application despite a lower PassMark.

Server Auction

This comparison intentionally excludes servers listed on Hetzner’s Server Auction platform, which employs a descending-price (Dutch) auction mechanism. In this model, server prices progressively decrease over time, optimizing cost-efficiency for users willing to trade instant availability for price variability.

Seasonal patterns such as holidays or promotions have historically impacted Hetzner’s pricing. My personal recommendation is to look out for an i5-12500 or i5-13500 (EX44) at a price point around 36€ / month during the Christmas week.

Recommendations

1. For startups / small projects: Start with the CAX series (CAX11 to CAX41), as they offer the highest value scores and very competitive pricing.
2. For medium businesses: Consider the EX44 or AX42, which provide excellent balance of performance and cost.
3. For high-performance needs: The AX162 series provides enterprise-grade performance, offering excellent value despite the higher price point.
4. For storage-intensive applications the SX series, particularly the SX295 with up to 14 x 22TB drives, delivers massive storage capacity at a premium value, while the more budget-friendly SX65 offers a solid alternative with 4 x 22TB HDDs and 2 x 1TB SSDs.