Head-to-Head Comparison · Alternative to Umbrel · 🛠️ dev tools
Umbrel vs Cosmos Server
Complete self-hosting solution with automated maintenance, Smart-Shield protection, anti-DDoS, SSO authentication, and VPN access for secure private cloud management. Here is how Cosmos Server ($0/mo open source) stacks up against Umbrel ($25/mo) across cost, hosting, data privacy, and real-world trade-offs.
Cosmos Server is a verified Open Source-licensed open-source replacement for Umbrel. Switching from Umbrel ($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 Umbrel.
Cosmos Server
$0.00/mo · Open Source
Umbrel vs Cosmos Server Specifications
facts verified 2026-11-07
| Dimension | Umbrel (Paid) | Cosmos Server (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 | — | ★ 6.2k (active nov 2026) |
Deep Dive: Switching from Umbrel to Cosmos Server
Trade-offs, installation & data architecture
What you trade away
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Umbrel.
How to deploy Cosmos Server
Clone https://github.com/azukaar/cosmos-server 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 Cosmos Server instead of vibe-coding a Umbrel clone?
Instead of paying recurring SaaS fees for Umbrel or rebuilding it from scratch, deploy one of the 3 battle-tested open-source alternatives like CasaOS.
Umbrel vs Cosmos Server FAQ
Is Cosmos Server a good free alternative to Umbrel?+
Yes. Cosmos Server is a verified open-source (Open Source) replacement for Umbrel. Complete self-hosting solution with automated maintenance, Smart-Shield protection, anti-DDoS, SSO authentication, and VPN access for secure private cloud management.
What is the catch when switching from Umbrel to Cosmos Server?+
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Umbrel.
How much do you save switching from Umbrel to Cosmos Server?+
Umbrel costs $25/mo ($300/yr) per seat, whereas Cosmos Server 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 Cosmos Server instead of Umbrel?+
Install: Clone https://github.com/azukaar/cosmos-server or deploy with Docker Compose. Setup: Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
