Free VPS that stays free: Oracle, Google, Azure and Kamatera compared
short answer: For a server that stays free with no end date, start with Oracle Cloud Always Free (2 OCPU, 12 GB RAM) or Google Cloud e2-micro. For a short, heavier test, use Google $300 / 90 days or Kamatera 30 days. Azure gives $200 for 30 days plus 12 months of small VMs.
the short version
Free VPS offers fall into three buckets: always free, trial credits, and 12-month allowances. Mixing them up is how people get a surprise bill.
the table
| Provider | Free server | How long |
|---|---|---|
| Oracle Cloud | Arm VM, 2 OCPU / 12 GB, plus 2 small AMD VMs | Always Free, no end date |
| Google Cloud | 1 e2-micro VM in US regions | Always Free, plus $300 trial for 90 days |
| Azure | 750 hours/month of small B-series VMs | VM hours for 12 months, $200 credit for 30 days |
| Kamatera | Full VPS trial | 30 days, then billing starts unless you delete it |
the catches
- Oracle free shapes can be out of capacity in your home region, and idle instances can be reclaimed.
- Google trial resources are deleted after a grace period if you do not upgrade.
- Always set a billing alert before you create your first server, on every provider.
faqs
Q: Is there a truly unlimited free VPS? A: No. Every free VPS has CPU, RAM, region, or time limits. The ones above are the most generous verified limits.
Q: Do I need a card? A: Yes, for Oracle, Google, Azure and Kamatera trials. Azure for Students is the main no-card exception for students.