Fully managed simplicity vs a cheaper self-managed cloud VPS: here's how these two really compare for Indian websites.
Managed multi-cloud layer
$11/mo
Self-managed cloud VPS
$19.95/moChoose ScalaHosting if you want the lowest starting price, full root access, and don't mind running your own server (SPanel is included free). Choose Cloudways if you want a managed experience with a Mumbai region and support included.
| Factor | Cloudways | ScalaHosting |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $11/mo (~₹950), usage-based billing | $19.95/mo (~₹1,700), 12-month term (renews $24.95/mo) |
| Underlying infrastructure | AWS, DigitalOcean, GCP or Vultr: you choose | ScalaHosting's own cloud, 13 locations across 4 continents |
| India region | Mumbai available via DigitalOcean/AWS backend | Mumbai available among 13 locations, via AWS |
| Server management | Fully managed: patching, caching, security | Self-managed: full root access, your responsibility |
| Best for | WordPress/WooCommerce sites, agencies | Developers wanting root access on a budget |
| Control panel | Custom Cloudways panel, beginner-friendly | Free SPanel included (cPanel alternative) |
| Backups | Automated backups included | Paid add-on ($6/mo for 3-day retention) |
| Support | 24/7 live chat, expert managed support | No included support on this self-managed tier |
If you run WordPress or WooCommerce sites and want performance without touching a terminal, Cloudways is the safer, more managed choice. It lets you pick the underlying cloud provider and includes a Mumbai region, while handling caching, backups, security updates and server management for you.
If you're a developer who wants full root access, the lowest possible starting cost, and doesn't mind configuring and securing your own stack, ScalaHosting's self-managed Cloud VPS is worth it, especially since SPanel is included free. Chasing the absolute lowest price instead? See how Contabo compares to Verpex on raw value, or browse our full 2026 cloud hosting ranking for India for the complete picture.
See how these two stack up against all 10 ranked cloud hosting providers in India.
View the full 2026 ranking