The demand for cloud computing is growing in AI and many users are exploring alternatives to the big three: AWS, Azure and GCP. Here comes Scaleway, a European cloud provider based in France that offers a wide range of services, including virtual machines, Kubernetes, object storage and more recently, GPU instances designed for AI and compute-heavy workloads.
In this comprehensive Scaleway review, we explore how this EU-native provider compares with others in terms of performance, pricing, use cases, and user experience.
What is Scaleway?
Scaleway is a French cloud computing company and a subsidiary of the Iliad Group. It has gained attention as one of Europe’s leading cloud providers, offering a wide range of IaaS and PaaS solutions from virtual machines to Kubernetes and managed databases. More recently, it has expanded into high-performance GPU compute to support growing AI workloads.
Unlike hyperscalers, Scaleway positions itself as a more ethical, eco-conscious and privacy-friendly alternative, with a strong presence in Europe and GDPR compliance by design.
Scaleway’s offerings include :
- Compute instances (CPU & GPU)
- Kubernetes Kapsule
- Object & block storage
- Load balancers
- Bare metal servers
- Serverless functions
Key Features of Scaleway
The key features of Scaleway include :
1. Virtual Instances (DEV, GP, and GPU)
Scaleway offers a broad range of virtual machines tailored to different workloads:
- DEV instances for development and testing
- GP instances for general-purpose workloads
- GPU instances for AI, rendering, and scientific computing
Their GPU range supports :
- NVIDIA V100 and T4
- NVIDIA A100 and A100 80GB
2. Kubernetes Kapsule
Scaleway’s managed Kubernetes service—Kapsule—is a lightweight, production-ready solution that integrates well with GPU nodes. It supports :
- Auto-scaling
- Node pools with GPUs
- Helm charts for quick deployment
It’s ideal for teams deploying ML models, microservices or containerised apps at scale.
3. Object and Block Storage
Scaleway’s storage stack includes :
- S3-compatible object storage
- Block storage volumes attached to instances
- MultiAZ replication for durability
This allows AI practitioners to host large datasets and models close to their compute without depending on third-party storage services.
4. Eco-Friendly Data Centres
One of Scaleway’s standout values is its focus on sustainability. Its data centres are :
- Powered by renewable energy
- Cooled by natural airflows (reducing power consumption)
- Located in France, the Netherlands, and Poland
For organisations that prioritise green computing and regional compliance, Scaleway is a compelling choice.
Scaleway User Experience
Scaleway offers one of the most polished UIs among European providers. The dashboard is intuitive, responsive, and beginner-friendly. It allows users to :
- Spin up virtual machines with a few clicks
- Create and manage Kubernetes clusters
- Attach volumes, monitor costs, and set up autoscaling
- Browse and use API or CLI tools for automation
Scaleway also offers :
- REST APIs for advanced automation
- SDKs in multiple languages (Go, Python, JS)
- CLI access for terminal workflows
Scaleway Performance and Reliability
Scaleway offers reliable performance, especially for web infrastructure and moderate AI tasks. The GPU instances are capable, though not as diverse or fine-tuned as those from providers like Lambda Labs or CoreWeave.
Performance observations :
- Good throughput for image generation, model inference, and training small to mid-sized models
- Stable uptime and low latency within Europe
- Ideal for European users or those targeting European markets
Scaleway Pricing
Scaleway offers competitive, transparent pricing, especially attractive for European businesses avoiding the currency fluctuations and data residency concerns of US-based clouds.
| GPU Name | Hourly Price |
| L4-1-24G | €0.75 /hour |
| L4-2-24G | €1.5 /hour |
| L4-4-24G | €3 /hour |
| L4-8-24G | €6 /hour |
| L40S-1-48G | €1.4 /hour |
| L40S-2-48G | €2.8 /hour |
| L40S-4-48G | €5.6 /hour |
| L40S-8-48G | €11.2 /hour |
| H100-1-80G | €2.73 /hour |
| H100-2-80G | €5.46 /hour |
| H100-SXM-2-80G | €6.018 /hour |
| H100-SXM-4-80G | €11.61 /hour |
| H100-SXM-8-80G | €23.028 /hour |
Other pricing details :
- Storage : €0,0000165/GB/hour for block storage
- Egress bandwidth : Free for private networks and €0.03/hour for Private Networks up to 1 Gbps for Elastic Metal server
- Reserved instances : Monthly billing at a lower hourly rate
There’s no free tier for GPU instances but credits are available for startups, educators, and open-source contributors through Scaleway’s partnership programmes. With Scaleway, you get up to €36,000 in cloud credits, free consulting support from solution architects, and access to a vibrant community of over 800 startups. Whatever stage your startup is in, Scaleway has a programme tailored to your needs.
Scaleway Use Cases
Scaleway is ideal for developers, researchers, and European startups looking for cost-effective GPU compute in a compliant environment.
- Model inference and fine-tuning (T4, V100, A100)
- Hosting lightweight or moderate AI/ML workloads
- GDPR-compliant infrastructure for regulated industries
- Startups in Europe need cost-predictable cloud
- Kubernetes workloads that require GPU nodes
Scaleway Community and Support
When it comes to managing cloud infrastructure, timely support can make or break your workflow. Scaleway understands this and has built a dual-track support system designed to serve you based on your exact needs.
Technical Support : 20-Minute Response Time
If you run into an issue or have a question about your existing cloud infrastructure, the best way to get help is through the Scaleway console. Simply log in and create a support ticket. Their technical support team is equipped to handle all cloud-related queries with impressive speed, resolving most issues or responding within just 20 minutes.
This support route is dedicated to users who are already up and running with Scaleway services and need assistance with deployment, performance, troubleshooting, or architecture.
Sales Enquiries : Build Your Cloud Ecosystem
If you’re new to Scaleway or exploring a project, the sales team is your first point of contact. Whether you’re building a multi-region deployment or just starting out with your first cloud instance, the sales team is there to guide you through the platform’s ecosystem and help you get started the right way.
It’s important to note that support requests cannot be handled by the sales team. Their role is to understand your project, suggest relevant solutions, and get you connected with the right tools and services.
Is Scaleway Worth It?
Scaleway hits a sweet spot for developers and organisations who want affordable, easy-to-use cloud services with GPU access, GDPR compliance, and a European focus. While it may not yet rival the AI capabilities of CoreWeave or Lambda Labs, it’s a strong choice for small to medium AI projects, inference, and compliant cloud infrastructure.
It’s especially useful if you’re based in Europe and want predictable pricing and eco-friendly infrastructure.
FAQs
1. What types of GPU instances does Scaleway offer?
Scaleway provides NVIDIA L4, L40S, and H100 GPU instances suitable for AI, ML, and compute-heavy tasks.
2. Is Scaleway a good option for startups?
Yes, Scaleway offers up to €36,000 in credits and free consulting through its startup support programmes.
3. Can I run Kubernetes with GPU support on Scaleway?
Yes, Scaleway’s Kapsule service supports GPU node pools for containerised AI workloads.
4. Does Scaleway comply with European data regulations?
Absolutely. Scaleway is GDPR-compliant by design and hosts its infrastructure within the EU.
5. How fast is Scaleway’s support response?
Technical support typically responds within 20 minutes via the console ticketing system.
Leave a Reply