Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM) is an open-source virtualization technology that lets you create multiple isolated virtual environments called virtual machines (VMs). KVM VPS offers excellent performance, robust security, and great flexibility. These features make it an excellent choice for advanced-level users who do not have the funds to hire a dedicated server.
If you want to get the best KVM VPS without wasting time, you’ve come to the right place. This article contains the top five best KVM VPS Hosting providers offering great features at low prices and satisfactory services. Here is a lineup of the best KVM VPS hosting providers.
Here Are the Top 5 KVM VPS Hosting
- Time4VPS – Best KVM VPS hosting overall
- Kamatera – Best KVM VPS Hosting Provider for Developers
- Ultahost– Best KVM VPS Hosting Provider for Managed Hosting
- IONOS – Best KVM VPS Hosting Provider for Windows
- Webdock – Best KVM VPS Hosting Provider for Flexibility
The Best KVM VPS Hosting Services of 2023 (Bought and Tested)
Time4VPS (as the same suggests) is a VPS hosting provider based in Europe. The provider offers fast Linux-based KVM VPS hosting solutions. These solutions are always available at affordable fees while ensuring top performance. They are number one on our list because they are the best in performance, features, and pricing. Their hosting services are also accessible to users of all experience levels.
- Overall score – 5
- Pricing – 5
- Features – 5
- Performance – 5
- Support – 5
- User Friendly– 5
Pricing: The KVM VPS hosting plans that Time4VPS offers are self-managed, so they are very cheap. The entry-level Linux VPS plan offers an Intel Xeon CPU, 2 GB RAM, 20 GB SSD storage, and 4 TB bandwidth. This plan costs 3.24 EUR/mo (monthly billing) and 32.44 EUR/yr (yearly billing). (Note that the prices double upon renewal). You also get a 30-day money-back guarantee in case you change your mind.
Features: Besides the KVM-based virtualization, other features of Time4VPS hosting plans include high-performance processors, a dedicated 4 Gbps network connection, a 99.98% uptime guarantee, and a Europe-located data center. The web host also allows you to customize your Linux kernel on demand to get the best setup for your performance needs.
Performance: Time4VPS hosting plans are designed for top-tier performance. Their hosting plans run on powerful Intel Xeon processors, sufficient RAM, and a dedicated 4 Gbps network connection. You also optimize your server for enhanced performance since you have full root access.
Support: Although the hosting plans are self-managed, Time4VPS does not leave you alone. They will help you through the initial stages of setting up your server and provide any assistance you may need. You can contact the support team via the live chat or ticketing system or search the knowledge base and community forums for DIY tips.
User Friendly: Self Hosted plans are typically stressful, but Time4VPS makes it easy by offering an assistance setup process and continuous customer support. You also get total control over your servers, so you can install apps, add-ons, and any further customization to suit your needs.
Additional parameter – Flexibility: TimeVPS plans offer complete control. As long as you are using the server within their stipulated guidelines, you can use it to serve any need ranging from cloud hosting, gaming, or website hosting.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Affordable for all budgets
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Full server control
- 24/7 customer support
- Lots of options to choose from
Cons:
- No server management service
Kamatera is an enterprise-level cloud hosting provider with various VPS options for developers and general-purpose users. These hosting options offer superb speed, broad versatility, and low fees. They are our top recommended KVM VPS hosting provider for developers, enterprises, and teams.
- Overall score – 4.8
- Pricing – 5
- Features – 4.5
- Performance – 5
- Support – 5
- User Friendly – 4.5
Pricing: Kamera uses a flexible pay-as-you-use model to significantly reduce your hosting costs while ensuring you get the features you need. The basic ‘Availability” category costs $0.005/hour ($4/Month) for the basic setup. This setup offers 1 vCPU (2667MHz), 1024 MB RAM, 20 GB SSD storage, 5000 GB/month internet traffic, and 1 Public IP
Features: The free features include instant server setup and scalability, cloud-powered servers, and instantly scalable and flexible pricing. Other features include extended daily backups, server management service, and 3rd party software licensing.
Performance: In terms of performance, Kamatera offers unrivaled enterprise-class cloud infrastructure with full+geo redundant hardware and a network of data centers worldwide.
Support: Kamatera offers 24/7 customer support to all customers. They also offer advanced support to developers and teams building performance-critical applications requiring priority support.
User-friendly: We rate Kamatera low on user-friendliness because a typical user needs to know the correct configurations they need for their hosting needs to get the best results. However, for experienced users, Kamerta offers the best user experience. Experienced users can find their way by contacting customer support and paying for the fully managed service.
Additional parameter – Instant scalability: Kamatera offers instant hardware scalability availability. You can add more servers, CPU, RAM, storage, etc., to your hosting plans, and the upgrades will be available for you to use within minutes. You can also download your hosting plans on demand.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Instant scalability
- Pay as you use billing model
- 24/7 personal technical support
- Managed cloud servers (cost extra)
- Developer-friendly control panel
Cons:
- It might be challenging to use for beginners
Ultahost offers high-speed virtual private servers provided by KVM. These VPS come with instant provisioning and bleeding-edge infrastructure and can be accessed from strategically located data centers. The servers are also perfect for general purposes, such as website hosting and specialized functions like gaming servers.
- Overall score – 4.7
- Pricing – 4.5
- Features – 4.5
- Performance – 5
- Support – 4.6
- User Friendly – 5
Pricing: Ultrahost plans are priced based on the control panels included in them. The entry-level plan (VPS BASIC) starts at $5.50/mo for the Hestia & CyberPanel (free panels) option, $15.50/mo for the Plesk control panel option, and $24.50/mo for the cPanel control panel. This plan offers 1 CPU core, 1 GB RAM, 30 GB NVMe SSD storage, server management, and 1 IPv4 Dedicated IP
Features: All the VPS plans offer full root access, SSD NVMe disk drives, 99.99% uptime, scalable DDR4 RAM, unlimited bandwidths, automated daily backups, custom VPS configurations, and server management.
Performance: Ultahost VPS plans are optimized for speed with built-in caches, optimized stacks, NVMe SSDs, and the latest PHP versions. The web host also promises 99.99% uptime.
Support: You get 24/7 customer support via the ticketing system. You can also get support add-ons for personalized support. Alternatively, you can check the vast knowledge base for solutions and tips.
User-friendly: Since all the plans come with built-in server management, you don’t have to worry about managing the technical end of your server. The web host will monitor and update your server on your behalf. You also get the flexibility to optimize your server environment based on your needs.
Additional parameter – Built-in WordPress: Enterprises and individuals that need more control and hosting resources can go for Ultahost WordPress VPS hosting. The hosting plan comes pre-installed with WordPress and other tools/ features, such as a free SSL certificate, free DDOS protection, regular backups, and high bandwidth.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- High bandwidth allocation
- 99.99% uptime guarantee
- NVMe SSD storage
- Optimized for WordPress
- Fully managed plans
Cons:
- CPanel hosting attracts higher prices
Ionos is an industry-leading domain registrar and web hosting provider that runs its operation on sustainable green energy. They offer many hosting plans that include KVM VPS. with full virtualization. The plans are very cheap and offer extra discounts for the first few months of registering.
- Overall score – 4.4
- Pricing – 4
- Features – 4.5
- Performance – 5
- Support – 4.5
- User Friendly – 4
Pricing: Ionos VPS hosting plans start from $2/month. This entry plan (Linux XS) offers 1 vCores, 1 GB RAM, and 10 GB storage. You can use his plan for free for 30 days. However, we recommend the VPS Linux S plan as the cost-effective option. This plan costs $3/month for the first six months and $5/month afterward. It offers 2 vCores, 2 GB RAM, and 80 GB storage.
Features: Key features of Ionos KVM VPS plans include full root access, unlimited traffic (up to 1 Gbit/s), fast NVMe storage, full Linux VPS virtualization, multiple data center locations, 99.9% uptime, and 24/7 expert support
Performance: IONOS offers the best performance for KVM VPS hosting powered by their high-performance data centers. They also offer a 99.9% uptime guarantee while ensuring their infrastructures are environmentally friendly.
Support: The web host support team is staffed by cloud VPS hosting technicians, so you have all the assistance you need in setting up and optimizing the server environment. The support will also assist you with installing your SSL and other features.
User-friendly: Ionos is very easy to use. They offer a straightforward central administration panel and root access to your server. As such, you have control over the different features and settings of your systems, services, and network.
Additional Parameter – Windows Hosting: Although Ionos is a KVM VPS provider, they also offer VPS plans for Windows hosting. Many prefer Windows OS because of its simple user interface and family design. As such, if you want your Linux and Windows VPS under one roof, then Ionos is the provider to use.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Supports Linux and Windows OS
- Zero setup fees
- 24/7 expert customer support
- Beginner friendly dashboard
- Full server control
Cons:
- You can’t use third-party SSL
Webdock is a cloud VPS provider with offices in Denmark. The web host prices itself on its cloud hosting servers, a full range of customization options, and affordable prices. They run their hosting operations on renewable green energy sources and offer a free 24-hour, 24/7 customer support, and an initiative control panel.
- Overall score – 4.3
- Pricing – 4
- Features – 4
- Performance – 4.5
- Support- 4.5
- User Friendly– 4.5
Pricing: The entry plan (SSD Bit) starts at $6.29/mo and offers 50 GB storage, CPU with 5 threads, 5 GB memory, and I Gbit/s bandwidth. You can create a custom VPS plan if none of the available plans meet your use case requirements.
Features: The core features include SSL certificates, free backup snapshots, a fully-fledged Web Server control panel, free transactional emailing, free email forwarding, and free bot protection
Performance: Webdock KVM Virtual Machine servers offer traditional fully virtualized environments designed for speed and performance. The web host uses the latest processors from Intel and AMD.
Support: You get 24/7 live chat support and weekday phone support. The support team is staffed by honest and competent hosting experts. They also offer a knowledge base with tips and solutions to common hosting problems.
User-friendly: Webdock tries to make VPS hosting as simple as possible. Their hosting interface is designed with beginners in mind and packed with easy-to-use features. They also allow you to customize your hosting profile based on your use case.
Additional parameter- Green hosting: Climate change is a recurring issue, and many companies are doing their part to help the environment. Individuals and businesses who prioritize green energy will be pleased to know that Webdock gets all its electricity supply from renewable sources like the sun, wind, and sea. They also support reducing energy consumption and carbon footprint and supporting carbon removal.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- SSL Certificates
- Free backup snapshots
- Web Server control panel
- Free emailing tools
- Server protection
Cons:
- It may be difficult for novices to use.
Best KVM VPS Hosting Services: Final recommendations
KVM VPS offers top-tier VPS hosting solutions and many customization and configuration options. While there are many VPS providers, the best are Time4VPS, Kamatera, Ionos, Webdock, and Ultahost. Time4VPS is our top recommendation because of its fast, reliable, and affordable hosting services. The web host also offers responsive customer support and a user-friendly interface.
Here is a rundown of all top providers and their essential qualities.
- Time4VPS – Best KVM VPS hosting overall
- Kamatera – Best KVM VPS Hosting Provider for Developers
- Ultahost– Best KVM VPS Hosting Provider for Managed Hosting
- IONOS – Best KVM VPS Hosting Provider for Windows
- Webdock – Best KVM VPS Hosting Provider for Flexibility
How do we rank, and how should you choose your KVM VPS hosting?
- Types of Hosting Offered5%
- Performance and Reliability20%
- Site Speed10%
- Bandwidth and Storage10%
- Scaling Potential10%
- Features Included5%
- Ease of Use5%
- Customer Support5%
- User Reviews20%
- Starting Price5%
- Money-back Guarantee2%
- Other Factors3%
Many web hosts advertise KVM VPS hosting solutions of different kinds and prices. If you know what to look for, it will be easy for you to ignore their advertising gimmicks and choose the best provider for your use case. We have made things easier by giving you a list of the top five KVM VPS providers.
However, you may need further assistance choosing one of the five options or considering a provider not listed in this article. In that case, you need to know the most important factors to consider.
Here, briefly, we have listed the most important factors to consider when choosing the best KVM VPS services. These factors are developed based on our experience using VPS services and the reviews we get from our readers.
- Types of Hosting Offered (5%): There are three types of VPS hosting solutions: managed, unmanaged, and semi-managed VPS hosting plans. We recommend managed VPS hosting for all users. (see the section below for an in-depth explanation)
- Performance and Reliability (20%): Typically, the first place to look is the uptime guarantee. An uptime guarantee of 99.9% or more indicates that the web host is serious about providing reliable service. However, note that the uptime guarantee simply says the web host will compensate you if you experience downtime outside the SLA agreement.
- Site Speed (10%): Regardless of whether you are using your KVM VPS server for cloud hosting, gaming, or website hosting, speed is paramount. Specific features such as SSD drives, the proximity of the data center, CDN, and RAM can significantly improve your server loading speeds.
- Bandwidth and Storage (10%): Bandwidth defines how many visitors your site can handle, while storage refers to how much data you can store on your server. beware of providers that market their bandwidth and storage as “unlimited.” There is usually a “limit.” It pays to read the fine print so you don’t get unaware.
- Scaling Potential (10%): You need to discover the web host’s scalability options and how quickly the requested assets’ can be added to your server. Web hosts such as Kamatera will make the required resources available within minutes.
- Features Included (5%): The key features include control panels, OS options, free migrations, automatic daily or weekly backups, native IPv6 support, and free domains. Extras such as free domain names, pre-installed apps, and SSL certificates may be essential, depending on your needs.
- Ease of Use (5%) VPS generally require some level of skills to operate. However, you can bypass this requirement by signing up for a fully managed VPS plan. Just ensure that the interface and control panel are easy for your level.
- Customer Support (5%): You need dedicated, round-the-clock technical support. Some providers offer 24/7 live chat support and limited phone support on weekdays. Others provide ticketing support. Check the ones available from your preferred provider and the operating hours.
- User Reviews (20%): Reviews from other users and third-party review sites will provide you with first-hand advice and honest feedback. These reviews can tell the genuine VPS provider from the ones using advertising gimmicks to compensate for their unreliable services.
- Starting Price (5%): Regarding prices, the focus should be on the offered features, not the actual amount. So before you conclude that a web host is cheap or experienced, compare the features on its plans with the features offered by another provider. Always choose quality over pricing.
- Money-back Guarantee (2%): VPS providers typically offer anywhere from 24 hours to a 30-day guarantee. Read the fine print to know what is covered in the money-back policy.
- Other Factors (3%): Other factors to consider include establishment date, hosting awards, and brand reputation
Managed vs. unmanaged vs. semi-managed VPS
When it comes to choosing a VPS plan, there are three options to choose from:
- Unmanaged
- Managed, and
- Semi managed
Unmanaged VPS
An unmanaged VPS puts the responsibility of server maintenance on the user. The user has to manage their server, update software and plugins and make any necessary optimization. This type of VPS offers the most control since the user has access to every aspect of the server. However, it also has a higher technical requirement. If you tamper with the setting incorrectly, your server might begin to malfunction.
An unmanaged VPS is only ideal for clients with the skill, experience, or resources to manage the server independently. They are generally cheaper than managed servers, but in the long run, they can become exposed due to the extra cost of maintaining the server independently.
Managed VPS
With a managed VPS plan, the web host handles all server management on your behalf. All you need to do is set up the server and install your hosting application or software. Many providers will assist you with the software and customize the server environment to align with your use case. It is perfect for everyone, regardless of whether they have technical experience.
However, managed VPS is not cheap—the web host charges for the management service and the original cost of renting the server. Furthermore, the web host might restrict you from accessing some sections of your server to ensure top performance and protect your hosting environment.
Semi managed VPS
Semi-Managed VPS is the middle ground between managed and unmanaged VPS. The web host handles basic server management while you take care of the rest. It is also more affordable than managed VPS. This makes it ideal for people who want to save costs but need server management assistance.
However, Semi-Managed VPS is not popular. Most providers focus on offering either managed or unmanaged VPS. A few offer both. It is usually better to go with a managed VPS plan.
What is KVM VPS hosting, and who is it for?
KVM VPS is a type of virtual private server. Generally speaking, a VPS is a compartmentalized section of a physical server. Each compartment has its hosting resources that it doesn’t share with other partitions on the server. Two popular software is used to create virtual private servers: KVM and OpenVZ.
A KVM VPS, on the other hand, is a Virtual Private Server (VPS) combined with Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM) virtualization software. It offers more virtualization capabilities and more efficient hosting than a standalone VPS.
The alternative to KVM is OpenVZ. Both VPS virtualization solutions create standalone compartments on a physical server. Users prefer KVM because it isolates resources, makes the partition private, and can be used with any operating system. On the other hand, OpenVZ only works with Linux and shares resources with other users on the server.
The benefits of using a VPS are the same as a KVM VPS. These benefits include:
- Isolated hosting resources from other users on the same server
- Zero setup fee and instant provisioning
- Cheaper than a dedicated server while offering almost commensurate performance
- Flexibility and scalability
- Wide range of customization options
- SSH root access
- Better security and performance than shared hosting.
A KVM VPS can be used for general-purpose hosting or to host specialized applications and platforms.
Virtual Servers Compared to Other Web Hosting Services
Are you still questioning the benefits of a Virtual Private Server (VPS) compared to shared or dedicated web hosting? Let’s examine the differences and identify what makes VPS stand out.
- Shared Hosting: For beginners and those on a budget, shared hosting is an excellent choice. However, it’s important to note that all resources are shared among users. This means that if someone on the same server experiences a surge in traffic or a security issue, your website could be negatively impacted. This could result in slow loading times, inconsistent performance, and even damage your SEO rankings due to limited resources. So, it’s essential to consider the potential risks before choosing shared hosting.
- Shared hosting is best for beginners, bloggers, low-traffic websites, and individuals on a tight budget.
- VPS Hosting: If you’re seeking a web hosting solution that can provide you with dedicated resources, root access, dedicated IPs, improved speed, performance, security, and better SEO rankings, then a virtual private server is precisely what you need. It’s an excellent choice for those ready to upgrade from shared hosting and have the financial resources.
- VPS hosting is best for medium to high-traffic sites, programmers, game makers, and SaaS providers.
- Dedicated Hosting: If you’re in the market for a web hosting service, you have various options to consider. While a Virtual Private Server (VPS) is a solid choice, a dedicated server is undoubtedly the most potent option. With a dedicated server, you get an entire physical machine at your disposal, complete with all its components, including CPU, RAM, and bandwidth. However, the level of performance that a dedicated web hosting service provides does come at a premium cost, as it is the most expensive solution available.
- Dedicated hosting is best for high-traffic sites, resource intensive applications and enterprises requiring powerful performance