Head-to-Head Comparison · Alternative to SimpleBackups · 💾 cloud storage
SimpleBackups vs Pluton
Free, open-source backup solution with end-to-end encryption. Self-hosted control, supports 70+ cloud providers, automated incremental backups, and zero vendor lock-in. Here is how Pluton ($0/mo open source) stacks up against SimpleBackups ($25/mo) across cost, hosting, data privacy, and real-world trade-offs.
Pluton is a verified Open Source-licensed open-source replacement for SimpleBackups. Switching from SimpleBackups ($25/mo) saves $300/yr per solo seat, or $1,500/yr for a 5-person team. Deployment: Runs on Self-host.
The catch: Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed SimpleBackups.
Pluton
$0.00/mo · Open Source
SimpleBackups vs Pluton Specifications
facts verified 2026-11-07
| Dimension | SimpleBackups (Paid) | Pluton (Replacement) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $25 / mo | $0 / mo |
| 1-Year Cost (1 seat) | $300 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $300) |
| 1-Year Cost (5 seats) | $1,500 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $1,500) |
| 1-Year Cost (10 seats) | $3,000 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $3,000) |
| Source & License | Proprietary SaaS | open source Open Source |
| Where It Runs | Vendor Cloud | Self-host (your server) |
| Platforms | Web / Cloud | webself-hosteddocker to self-host |
| GitHub Stars | — | ★ 874 (active nov 2026) |
Deep Dive: Switching from SimpleBackups to Pluton
Trade-offs, installation & data architecture
What you trade away
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed SimpleBackups.
How to deploy Pluton
Clone https://github.com/plutonhq/pluton or deploy with Docker Compose
What it takes to run
Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
Where your data lives
All application data and configuration live on your own server or local database.
Why fork Pluton instead of vibe-coding a SimpleBackups clone?
Instead of paying recurring SaaS fees for SimpleBackups or rebuilding it from scratch, deploy one of the 2 battle-tested open-source alternatives like Plakar.
SimpleBackups vs Pluton FAQ
Is Pluton a good free alternative to SimpleBackups?+
Yes. Pluton is a verified open-source (Open Source) replacement for SimpleBackups. Free, open-source backup solution with end-to-end encryption. Self-hosted control, supports 70+ cloud providers, automated incremental backups, and zero vendor lock-in.
What is the catch when switching from SimpleBackups to Pluton?+
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed SimpleBackups.
How much do you save switching from SimpleBackups to Pluton?+
SimpleBackups costs $25/mo ($300/yr) per seat, whereas Pluton is $0/mo. Switching saves $300/yr for a solo user, $1,500/yr for a 5-person team, and $3,000/yr for a 10-person team.
How do I install or self-host Pluton instead of SimpleBackups?+
Install: Clone https://github.com/plutonhq/pluton or deploy with Docker Compose. Setup: Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
