The best public cloud providers deliver scalable computing resources, such as storage, servers, and applications. They operate on a shared infrastructure model, providing services on a pay-as-you-go basis and enabling businesses to reduce costs, enhance flexibility, and access advanced technologies.
Let's explore the best public cloud providers for 2025, their strengths, and key offerings. Find out which provider best meets your business needs.
Table of Contents
1. Microsoft Azure
The best public cloud provider is Microsoft Azure, known for its robust infrastructure, comprehensive service offerings, and seamless integration with Microsoft’s ecosystem. It holds a 25% share in the cloud infrastructures market and is a preferred choice for many businesses globally, offering tailored solutions for enterprises, small businesses, and even individual developers.
As a powerhouse in the public cloud industry, Microsoft Azure combines versatility, scalability, and innovation. For businesses aiming to leverage the latest in AI or Microsoft’s ecosystem, Azure is an unbeatable choice in 2025 and beyond.
Key features of Microsoft Azure:
- Comprehensive service offerings
- Extensive global reach
- Built-in support for Microsoft tools
- Over 90 compliance certifications
- Cutting-edge AI services
Pricing for Microsoft Azure:
- Pay-as-you-go for the resources you need, see calculator here.
2. Google Cloud Platform
Google Cloud Platform is another leading public cloud provider with a global network of data centers. This enables businesses and developers to deploy applications and services with high availability and low latency. Its commitment to open-source technologies and cutting-edge solutions makes it a versatile choice for organizations aiming for flexibility and innovation.
With Google Cloud Platform, you can empower your business to achieve your digital transformation goals. Its commitment to scalability, security, and advanced technologies positions it as a formidable player in the public cloud landscape.
Key features of Google Cloud Platform:
- Scalable virtual machines with customizable configurations
- Managed environment for containerized applications using Kubernetes
- Plug-and-play AI components
- Globally distributed relational database service
- Identity and access management for fine-grained access control
Pricing for Google Cloud Platform:
- Pay-as-you-go for the resources you need, see calculator here.
3. Amazon Web Services
Amazon Web Services, or AWS, is one of the most popular public cloud providers: it ranks at the top in terms of market share, holding 31% in 2024. It offers a large suite of services that cater to a wide range of business needs, including computing power, developer tools, Internet of Things (IoT), storage options, enterprise applications, and networking capabilities. Its global infrastructure ensures low latency and robust security, making it a preferred choice for thousands of organizations worldwide.
Additionally, AWS's extensive marketing and advertising service offerings make it a versatile AdTech platform suitable for various business applications. These services are available on-demand, within seconds, so you can scale and innovate efficiently.
Key features of Amazon Web Services:
- AWS Lambda for serverless computing and Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud for scalable virtual servers
- Amazon DynamoDB for NoSQL databases
- AWS AI for image and video analysis
- Amazon Virtual Private Cloud for networking services
- AWS Shield for DDoS protection and compliance with global security standards
Pricing for Amazon Web Services:
- Pay-as-you-go for the resources you need, see calculator here.
4. IBM Cloud
IBM Cloud is another excellent public cloud provider that offers a versatile and secure platform for enterprises with complex and specialized needs. Its strengths in cloud integration, AI capabilities, and industry-specific solutions make it a compelling choice for global organizations.
IBM Cloud supports the development of AI-powered applications and provides access to cutting-edge quantum computing features, making it ideal for innovation-driven businesses. With enterprise-grade security and compliance certifications, it ensures data protection and regulatory adherence across industries.
Key features of IBM Cloud:
- AI and machine learning tools powered by IBM Watson
- Data encryption and compliance certifications
- Quantum computing resources
- Global data centers
- Support for various open-source technologies
Pricing for IBM Cloud:
- Pay-as-you-go for the resources you need, see calculator here.
5. Oracle Cloud Infrastructure
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) offers a suite of services designed to meet the diverse needs of modern enterprises. This popular public cloud provider distinguishes itself with cost-effective pricing, high performance, and deep system expertise.
OCI’s support for hybrid and multi-cloud environments offers the flexibility needed for diverse IT strategies, positioning it as a versatile platform for modern enterprises.
Key features of Oracle Cloud Infrastructure:
- Flexible compute options for various workload requirements
- Scalable and secure data storage solutions
- Customizable network configurations
- Oracle Autonomous Database for automating routine tasks
- Interoperability with other cloud providers
Pricing for Oracle Cloud Infrastructure:
- Pay-as-you-go for the resources you need, see calculator here.
6. Dell Technologies Cloud
Dell Technologies Cloud is another big player in the public cloud landscape that delivers a consistent and flexible experience. Its use of VMware Cloud Foundation simplifies resource management, while flexible consumption models enhance cost efficiency.
Comprehensive security measures ensure data protection across environments, making it an excellent option if you’re seeking to modernize your IT infrastructure and streamline operations.
Key features of Dell Technologies Cloud:
- Unified platform for virtual machines and containerized applications
- Data Center-as-a-service
- Flexible consumption models
- Powerful security
- Scalable storage solutions
Pricing for Dell Technologies Cloud:
- Pricing is available by request.
7. Alibaba Cloud
Alibaba Cloud, also known as Aliyun, is a popular public cloud provider within the Asia-Pacific market. Its extensive network of data centers in the region ensures low latency and compliance with local regulations, making it an ideal choice for businesses targeting Asian markets.
Additionally, the platform’s suite of services enables enterprises to innovate and deploy applications efficiently.
Key features of Alibaba Cloud:
- Elastic Compute Service for scalable virtual servers
- Object Storage Service for unstructured data and Apsara DB for managed database services
- Global Accelerator for optimized network performance
- Anti-DDoS protection and data encryption
- AI and NLP services
Pricing for Alibaba Cloud:
- Pay-as-you-go for the resources you need, see calculator here.
8. Salesforce Hyperforce
Salesforce Hyperforce represents a significant evolution in cloud infrastructure, enabling Salesforce applications to operate on major public clouds. This re-architectured platform makes global deployment possible, so businesses can scale operations seamlessly.
The platform's backward compatibility ensures that existing customizations and integrations function without disruption, facilitating a smooth transition. Its zero-trust security model and encryption protocols provide much-needed data protection, instilling confidence in privacy and safety.
Key features of Salesforce Hyperforce:
- Rapid deployment across various regions
- Data residency compliance
- Data encryption at rest and in transit
- Auto-scaling capabilities
- Regulatory compliance features
Pricing for Salesforce Hyperforce:
- Platform Starter: $25/user/month (billed annually)
- Platform Plus: $100/user/month (billed annually)
Public Cloud Providers Compared
| Public Cloud Providers | Pros | Cons | Use Cases |
| Microsoft Azure |
|
| Agile development, large-scale workloads, hybrid deployments |
| Google Cloud Platform |
|
| Big data and analytics, ML projects, multi-cloud strategies |
| Amazon Web Services |
|
| Websites and web applications, storage solutions, big data analytics |
| IBM Cloud |
|
| AI-driven applications, regulated industries, quantum research and development |
| Oracle Cloud Infrastructure |
|
| Enterprise applications, disaster recovery, hybrid cloud deployments |
| Dell Technologies Cloud |
|
| App development and testing, digital solutions for highly regulated industries |
| Alibaba Cloud |
|
| High-performance gaming, eCommerce, AI model training |
| Salesforce Hyperforce |
|
| Global enterprises and rapidlyscaling businesses |
Methodology for Picking the Best Public Cloud Providers
The public cloud market is expected to generate over $770 billion by the end of 2024. This massive industry has a lot of top players offering comprehensive services for businesses and developers, which makes it difficult to choose the best ones for this list.
We based our choices on the following criteria:
- Market share: This reflects a provider’s reliability and dominance within the industry.
- Service offerings: A comprehensive range of services ensures versatility and suitability for diverse business needs.
- Innovation: Cutting-edge technologies such as AI, machine learning, quantum computing, and edge computing can differentiate providers.
- Scalability: The ability to scale resources dynamically is an essential consideration for businesses with fluctuating workloads.
- Security and compliance: Data protection and regulatory compliance are critical for safe operations across industries.
- Global reach: A broad global footprint ensures low latency, high availability, and compliance with local data sovereignty regulations.
Public Cloud Providers: Key Takeaways
Choosing the right public cloud provider is a critical decision for businesses aiming to scale, innovate, and remain competitive in 2025. The top providers each offer unique strengths, from scalability and global reach to advanced AI and hybrid solutions.
Partner with the top cloud consulting companies to align your strategies with business goals and choose the tools and technologies best suited for your operations.
