Compare the best CI/CD tools for startups: cost, setup, and real examples.

GitHub Actions vs GitLab CI vs Jenkins: Which Should Your Startup Choose?

You're building a startup. You need CI/CD. Everyone tells you to pick a tool.

GitHub Actions is "free". GitLab CI is "powerful". Jenkins is "flexible".

None of that helps you decide.

This article cuts through the noise. I'll show you exactly which tool fits your startup, with real costs and real trade-offs.

The Quick Answer

Need Best Choice Why

GitHub-only shop GitHub Actions Free, no setup

Complex workflows GitLab CI Built-in container registry

On-premise required Jenkins Only self-hosted option

Cost-conscious GitHub Actions Free tier is genuinely free

Keep reading for the detailed comparison and code examples.

1. GitHub Actions: The Easiest Start

What It Is

GitHub Actions runs your CI/CD workflows directly in GitHub.…