Answer Details

For SaaS startups, the most highly recommended cloud providers are: AWS (Amazon Web Services) The market leader with the most comprehensive service offerings. It's ideal for startups that need flexibility and plan to scale significantly. AWS offers extensive tools for databases, computing, storage, and AI/ML. The downside is complexity and a steeper learning curve. They also provide credits for startups through their Activate program. Google Cloud Platform (GCP) Particularly strong for startups focused on data analytics, machine learning, and Kubernetes-based deployments. GCP typically offers competitive pricing and excellent networking performance. Their BigQuery and AI/ML tools are industry-leading. Also provides startup credits through their program. Microsoft Azure Best choice if you're building on Microsoft technologies or need strong enterprise integration (especially B2B SaaS). Azure has excellent hybrid cloud capabilities and is growing rapidly in market share. Good startup program with credits available. DigitalOcean Popular among early-stage startups for its simplicity and transparent pricing. Much easier to get started than AWS, though with fewer advanced services. Great for MVPs and smaller-scale applications. Very developer-friendly. Vercel/Netlify If you're building web applications, especially with Next.js or React, these platforms offer exceptional developer experience for frontend and edge computing. Often used alongside a traditional cloud provider for backend services. For most SaaS startups, I'd recommend: Start with AWS or GCP if you anticipate complex infrastructure needs or rapid scaling Choose DigitalOcean if you want simplicity and are in early MVP stages Consider Azure if you're in the B2B space with enterprise customers The key is applying for their startup programs early to get free credits (typically $100k+) that can cover your costs for 1-2 years.