Whether you’re just starting your journey into cloud computing or you’re a seasoned IT pro wanting to level up, choosing the right learning platform can make a big difference. Among the top platforms out there, KodeKloud and A Cloud Guru (ACG) stand out. Both offer cloud and DevOps-related courses, but they go about it very differently.
So, which one should you go for?
Let’s take a deep, friendly, and honest look at both—backed by reviews, real user insights, and comparisons. By the end, you’ll see clearly why KodeKloud edges out as the better choice for most learners today.
Meet the Contenders
KodeKloud – Hands-On First
KodeKloud focuses on learning by doing. It’s all about practical, real-world labs, mostly in DevOps and cloud tools like Docker, Kubernetes, Linux, Terraform, Ansible, AWS, and more. You don’t just watch videos—you get to actually do the work. Imagine spinning up Kubernetes clusters or managing infrastructure with Terraform in your browser!
A Cloud Guru – Certification-Focused
A Cloud Guru, now part of Pluralsight, is one of the most recognized names in cloud training. Their courses cover AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud with strong emphasis on certification paths. ACG is known for its quirky, entertaining teaching style and wide course library, but it leans more toward video-based learning with less hands-on action.
📚 Course Content: What You’ll Learn
KodeKloud
Specializes in DevOps, Containers, Linux, Infrastructure-as-Code
- Courses include:
- Docker for Beginners to Advanced
- Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA)
- Terraform, Ansible, Git, Jenkins, and more
- Some cloud (AWS, GCP), but with a DevOps-first lens
- Real-world scenarios built into the labs
- Regular updates and new content added frequently
A Cloud Guru
- Offers certification-based paths: AWS, Azure, GCP, and some DevOps
- Courses include:
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect
- Azure Fundamentals
- Google Cloud Professional Engineer
- Some Kubernetes and Docker coverage
- Video-heavy, structured like bootcamps
🔍 The Takeaway:
If you’re looking to pass cloud certifications, ACG might seem appealing. But if your goal is to actually understand, practice, and work hands-on with cloud and DevOps tools, KodeKloud’s real-world, project-based learning wins.
🏆 Winner: KodeKloud
🎥 Learning Style: Videos vs Labs
KodeKloud
- Every course is broken into bite-sized theory videos followed by labs
- Labs run in your browser—no setup required
- You work with real terminals and real servers
- Immediate feedback with auto-evaluated exercises
“It’s like being on the job. You don’t just learn, you do.” – User Review on Reddit
A Cloud Guru
- Primarily video-based learning
- Quizzes and cloud playground (for pro plans) available
- Hands-on labs are available, but not as deeply integrated or as abundant
- Some learners say they “watch more than they do”
“Great videos, but I felt like I needed to find labs elsewhere.” – Trustpilot Reviewer
🔍 The Takeaway:
KodeKloud’s labs are immersive. Every module pushes you to build muscle memory by doing. That’s where ACG falls short—it teaches the concepts but doesn’t give you the same real-world environment to practice deeply.
🏆 Winner: KodeKloud
💰 Pricing: Which Gives Better Value?
KodeKloud
- Starts at $19/month (billed annually)
- Everything included: All courses, labs, playgrounds, mock exams
- 7-day free trial
- No complex tiers or paywalls
A Cloud Guru
- Starts at $35/month (billed annually) for Personal Plan
- Hands-on labs and playgrounds only available on higher-tier plans
- Free trial available, but limited access
- Now bundled with Pluralsight, which can be confusing and pricey
🔍 The Takeaway:
KodeKloud offers more value at a lower price—simple pricing and everything included. ACG’s plans feel more fragmented and expensive, especially when you want full access to labs and playgrounds.
🏆 Winner: KodeKloud
🛠️ Hands-On Labs and Practice
KodeKloud
- Labs are built-in with every course
- Auto-graded labs so you can learn and get feedback instantly
- Playgrounds for Docker, Kubernetes, Linux, AWS, and more
- Real environments—not just simulations
“This platform is like having your own sandbox for every tool.” – Dev.to Reviewer
A Cloud Guru
- Cloud playground is available but only in higher-priced plans
- Labs often limited to AWS or Azure
- Not all courses have lab components
- Practice exams are helpful but not the same as real terminal work
🔍 The Takeaway:
KodeKloud’s hands-on learning approach is unmatched. ACG has labs, but they feel like a premium feature. If doing > watching is your learning style, KodeKloud is the better fit.
🏆 Winner: KodeKloud
🎯 Certifications and Career Paths
KodeKloud
- Helps prepare for:
- CKA, CKAD, CKS (Kubernetes certifications)
- DevOps Engineer roles
- Practical job interviews
- More skills-based training than certification-only
- Offers mock exams and career roadmap guidance
A Cloud Guru
- Certification-focused: AWS, Azure, GCP
- Learning paths aligned to popular certifications
- Ideal for entry-level cloud certs
- Less content around post-certification real-world practice
🔍 The Takeaway:
If you’re chasing a specific cert, ACG gives a good foundation. But KodeKloud goes beyond certs, teaching you how to work like a real DevOps/cloud engineer with practical labs that simulate work-life.
🏆 Winner: KodeKloud
📣 Community and Support
KodeKloud
- Active Discord and forums
- Weekly updates and community events
- Responsive support and course instructors
- Learners help each other through troubleshooting
A Cloud Guru
- Community forums and Slack (less active post-Pluralsight merge)
- Support is available but sometimes slow
- Instructors are less visible/engaged
🔍 The Takeaway:
KodeKloud builds a community around learning, while ACG feels more corporate. If peer help, support, and engagement matter to you, you’ll feel more at home with KodeKloud.
🏆 Winner: KodeKloud
⭐ User Reviews and Reputation
Let’s take a look at what real users are saying.
KodeKloud Reviews
- Trustpilot: ★★★★★ (4.8+ rating)
- Reddit: Frequently praised in r/devops and r/linux
- Common praise:
- “Labs are game-changing”
- “Better than Udemy and ACG for hands-on skills”
- “Perfect for practical learners”
A Cloud Guru Reviews
- Trustpilot: ★★★★☆ (4.1 rating)
- G2 and Reddit: Mixed feedback post-Pluralsight merger
- Common concerns:
- “Good for certs, not for real-world skills”
- “Too many videos, not enough labs”
- “Pricey for the value”
🔍 The Takeaway:
While ACG has a strong reputation historically, many users feel it’s lost its practical edge. KodeKloud is climbing fast with raving reviews from people who’ve successfully used it to switch careers, ace interviews, and learn by doing.
🏆 Winner: KodeKloud
🧠 Final Verdict: Why KodeKloud Wins
| Feature | KodeKloud | A Cloud Guru |
|---|---|---|
| Practical Labs | ✅✅✅ | ✅ |
| Certification Prep | ✅✅ | ✅✅✅ |
| Real-World Skills | ✅✅✅ | ✅ |
| Pricing | 💲 | 💲💲💲 |
| Community | 👥👥👥 | 👥👥 |
| Beginner Friendly | ✅✅✅ | ✅✅ |
Total Score:
- KodeKloud: 9.5/10
- A Cloud Guru: 7.5/10
If your goal is to build confidence, practice cloud tools, and master DevOps workflows, KodeKloud is the platform for you. It’s hands-on, affordable, community-driven, and designed to make you job-ready, not just test-ready.
A Cloud Guru is still great for certifications, especially if you’re looking to get your foot in the door in cloud computing. But when it comes to depth, interactivity, and real-world skill-building, KodeKloud clearly wins.
FAQ’s
Which platform offers more hands-on practice—KodeKloud or Pluralsight?
KodeKloud provides interactive, browser-based labs that let you learn by doing, not just watching.
Is KodeKloud more focused on DevOps and cloud technologies?
Yes, KodeKloud specializes in DevOps tools like Kubernetes, Docker, and Terraform, with real-world scenarios.
Which is better for beginners trying to build job-ready skills?
KodeKloud guides learners with structured, practical paths tailored to real job roles.
Does KodeKloud offer better value for money than Pluralsight?
Definitely—KodeKloud gives full access to all labs and courses at a lower, flat-rate price.
Which platform simulates real-world IT environments better?
KodeKloud’s labs mirror actual production setups, making it ideal for practical skill-building.
