Steel vs Kernel
KE| STSteel | KEKernel | |
|---|---|---|
| Isolation | Cloud browser (isolated) | Cloud browser (isolated) |
| Cold start | n/a | n/a |
| Price / vCPU-hr | n/a | n/a |
| GPU | No | No |
| Session limit | 15 min (Launch) to 24h (Enterprise) | Reusable sessions |
| Persistence | Session-scoped | Reusable sessions; session replays |
| MCP support | n/a | n/a |
| Free tier | Launch: $0 + usage, $30 one-time credits (~300 browser-hrs) | Free ($5/mo credits, 5 concurrent browsers) |
| Best for | Developers who want an open-source, self-hostable browser API for agents. | Teams wanting fast, open-source cloud browsers with memory-based, idle-free pricing. |
The verdict
Choose Steel for developers who want an open-source, self-hostable browser API for agents. Choose Kernel for teams wanting fast, open-source cloud browsers with memory-based, idle-free pricing.
Headline rates rarely equal your bill. Idle time, session length, creation fees and GPU minutes dominate. Model your actual workload in the cost calculator.
FAQ
Steel vs Kernel: which is better?
It depends on your priority. Steel is best for developers who want an open-source, self-hostable browser API for agents. Kernel is best for teams wanting fast, open-source cloud browsers with memory-based, idle-free pricing.
Is Steel or Kernel cheaper?
Pricing models differ; see each provider's page for current rates.
Still choosing between Steel and Kernel?
Tell us your workload and we'll point you to the better fit, then connect you with real pricing from the one you pick. No spam.