Google Anthos vs Kubernetes: What are the differences?

Introduction

Google Anthos and Kubernetes are both popular platforms used for managing containerized applications, but they have some key differences that set them apart.

1. Architecture: Kubernetes is a container orchestration platform that focuses on managing and scaling containers across a cluster of machines. On the other hand, Anthos is a hybrid and multi-cloud platform that allows you to manage and deploy applications across different cloud providers, on-premises environments, and even edge devices. It provides a consistent management experience across various environments.

2. Vendor Lock-in: Kubernetes is an open-source platform that can be run on various cloud providers or on-premises, providing flexibility and avoiding vendor lock-in. Anthos, developed by Google, offers a consistent environment across different cloud providers, but it requires using Google Cloud as the primary management plane. This can lead to a level of vendor lock-in, as some features may only be available when using Google Cloud services.

3. Managed Services: Kubernetes provides a self-managed environment where you have full control over the infrastructure, including setting up and managing the control plane. Anthos, on the other hand, provides managed services for the control plane, including security and observability tools, making it easier for organizations to manage and operate their applications.

4. Multi-Cloud Capabilities: Anthos is built with multi-cloud capabilities in mind. It allows you to deploy and manage applications across multiple cloud providers, giving you the flexibility to choose the best provider for each workload. Kubernetes, although it can run on different cloud providers, doesn't offer the same level of integration and management capabilities across multiple clouds as Anthos does.

5. Hybrid Cloud Support: Anthos supports hybrid cloud environments, enabling you to run applications both on-premises and in the cloud. By using Anthos, you can have a consistent deployment and management experience across these environments. Kubernetes, while it can be run on-premises, doesn't provide the same level of integration and management capabilities for hybrid cloud environments as Anthos does.

6. Pricing Model: Kubernetes itself is an open-source platform, so there are no direct costs associated with using it. However, when using Anthos, you need to consider the cost of Google Cloud services as it serves as the primary management plane. Anthos has its own pricing model, which includes a base fee along with additional costs for the use of Google Cloud services.

In summary, Google Anthos and Kubernetes have some key differences. Anthos provides a hybrid and multi-cloud platform with managed services and a consistent management experience across different environments, but it comes with a level of vendor lock-in and additional costs for using Google Cloud services. Kubernetes, on the other hand, is a container orchestration platform that focuses on managing containers and provides flexibility in terms of deployment options and avoiding vendor lock-in.