# A free Render alternative for Node.js

EasyHost is a smaller, free option for Node.js apps. Here are the honest differences from Render, including what you give up.

## How they compare

According to [Render's own page](https://render.com/docs/free) as of October 2026, free web services spin down after 15 minutes without traffic, take about a minute to come back, and free Postgres databases expire after 30 days with a 1 GB cap. Check it for current details.

| Area | Render | EasyHost |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Idle behaviour | Free web services spin down after 15 minutes | Apps stay on |
| Free Postgres | Expires 30 days after creation, 1 GB cap | No expiry, one per project |
| Git integration | Yes | No, deploys use the CLI |
| Included with each app | Varies by plan | Postgres, S3 bucket and schedules per project |

## When EasyHost fits

- Side projects, prototypes and small apps written for Node.js
- Projects where an AI agent handles deployment through a CLI
- Apps that need to stay on for free

## When Render is the better choice

- You need multiple regions, autoscaling or a production support plan
- You want Git-based deploys or preview environments
- Your app goes beyond what 512 MB of RAM and 1 CPU can handle

## How to move

Read the [Render migration guide](/migrate/render). If you have a database there, EasyHost's [Postgres](/products/postgres) accepts a normal `pg_dump`.

## Frequently asked questions

### Is EasyHost a full replacement for Render?

Not for every app. It runs Node.js only, in one region, with fixed limits. It suits small apps that fit those limits.