Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

localhost.run VS Pagekite

Compare localhost.run VS Pagekite and see what are their differences

localhost.run logo localhost.run

Instantly share your localhost environment!

Pagekite logo Pagekite

Bring your localhost servers on-line.
  • localhost.run Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-09-24
  • Pagekite Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-09-25

localhost.run features and specs

  • Simplicity
    Localhost.run provides a simple way to expose your local server to the internet without requiring complex configurations or additional software installations.
  • No Installation Required
    You can use localhost.run directly from your terminal without the need to install any software or dependencies.
  • Free and Instantaneous
    Localhost.run offers a free service, and you can quickly start tunneling without any wait times or sign-ups.
  • Wide Compatibility
    It works with any web server running on your local machine, making it highly versatile.

Possible disadvantages of localhost.run

  • Stability and Uptime
    As a free service, localhost.run may not be as reliable as paid alternatives, potentially leading to unexpected downtimes.
  • Limited Customization
    Localhost.run doesn't offer many advanced features or customizations, which may be a drawback for more complex use cases.
  • Security
    By exposing your local server to the internet, there could be potential security risks if your server is not properly configured or secured.
  • Performance
    The performance of the tunnel can be slower compared to running the server locally due to additional network hops and bandwidth limitations.

Pagekite features and specs

  • Easy Configuration
    Pagekite offers a straightforward setup process, allowing users to quickly configure and deploy their services online without needing deep networking knowledge.
  • No Need for Static IP
    It enables access to local servers without requiring a static IP address, making it ideal for users with dynamic IPs or on networks with strict NAT policies.
  • Supports Multiple Protocols
    Pagekite supports HTTP, HTTPS, and arbitrary TCP protocols, providing flexibility for different types of web services and applications.
  • Custom Subdomains
    Users can create custom subdomains, making it easier to remember and access their services remotely.
  • Security Features
    It includes HTTPS support, which helps in securing the data transmitted between users and servers.

Possible disadvantages of Pagekite

  • Performance Limitations
    As a relay service, it can introduce additional latency and may suffer from bandwidth limitations compared to direct connections.
  • Subscription Cost
    While a free tier is available, more advanced features and higher usage tiers require a subscription, which may not be cost-effective for some users.
  • Alternative Dependencies
    Pagekite requires the installation of software on the host machine to facilitate connections, which can be a drawback for users preferring a less intrusive method.
  • Limited to Specific Use Cases
    It’s primarily designed for smaller-scale personal or development use cases, making it less suitable for enterprise-level needs requiring higher performance and reliability.
  • Potential Security Risks
    While HTTPS support exists, exposing local services to the internet inherently carries security risks, especially if proper configurations and safeguards are not implemented.

Analysis of localhost.run

Overall verdict

  • Localhost.run is a good tool for developers who need a fast, efficient, and secure way to share their local development environments. Its ease of use and minimal setup make it an excellent choice for quick sharing and testing scenarios.

Why this product is good

  • Localhost.run is a service that provides a quick and easy way to expose a local server to the internet. It is often praised for its simplicity, ease of use, and minimal setup requirements. It allows developers to share their work quickly for collaboration, testing, or demonstration purposes without needing to deploy to a public server. It uses a secure SSH tunnel, which adds a layer of security to the service.

Recommended for

  • Developers who need to demo their work to clients or teams
  • Collaborative programming and real-time feedback
  • Testing webhooks or APIs from an external source
  • Temporary exposure of local servers for testing purposes

Analysis of Pagekite

Overall verdict

  • Pagekite is generally considered a good service for those who need to expose local servers to the web easily and securely.

Why this product is good

  • Secure
    The service offers strong encryption and security features to protect the data passing through its tunnels.
  • Versatile
    Pagekite supports a variety of protocols and can be used for a wide range of applications, including web development, remote access, and IoT.
  • Easy to use
    Pagekite is designed to be user-friendly, making it accessible even for those who aren't deeply technical. It provides a simple way to create secure tunnels from local servers to the internet.
  • Cost-effective
    For many users, Pagekite's pricing is reasonable and cost-effective, especially when considering the features and support provided.

Recommended for

  • Developers who need to demo web applications or APIs hosted locally.
  • Individuals looking to host home automation or IoT applications.
  • Small businesses or hobbyists who require a simple way to access applications running behind NAT or firewalls.
  • Anyone needing a secure and reliable way to expose local services to the internet.

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to localhost.run and Pagekite)
Localhost Tools
58 58%
42% 42
Testing
53 53%
47% 47
Webhooks
63 63%
37% 37
Tunnel
52 52%
48% 48

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare localhost.run and Pagekite

localhost.run Reviews

Tunnelling services for exposing localhost to the web
localhost.run is very similar to Serveo but with less features. In fact, as far as I can tell, it only does 1 thing: expose your local web server to the web with a public URL. And it does that well enough for me.
Source: chenhuijing.com

Pagekite Reviews

Localtonet | Best Ngrok Alternatives
While Serveo, Localtunnel, and Pagekite are also viable options, Localtonet stands out with its intuitive user interface, extensive documentation, and helpful support team. Additionally, Localtonet offers a range of tunneling options, including HTTP/s, TCP, UDP, and UDP/TCP, making it a versatile tool for a variety of use cases.
Source: localtonet.com
Top 4 BEST Ngrok Alternatives In 2021: Review And Comparison
PagekiteOne time account setup is required.Supports HTTP/HTTPS, SSH, and TCP.One time subdomain setup which is tied to email address is required and can be used every time when tunnel setup is required.Both free and paid options are available. (Free for a month).Subdomain is supported as first class citizens. It is a part of the account setup itself.
5 Free Tools to Expose localhost to Internet
Pagekite is yet another tool you can use on your PC to expose localhost to internet. Just like other tools in the list, it takes a port number from you along with a subdomain name and create a public link. In order to use in your PC, you need to be sure that you have Python2 installed there. There are just two commands that you have to run in order t get started with it....

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, localhost.run should be more popular than Pagekite. It has been mentiond 42 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

localhost.run mentions (42)

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Pagekite mentions (11)

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What are some alternatives?

When comparing localhost.run and Pagekite, you can also consider the following products

ngrok - ngrok enables secure introspectable tunnels to localhost webhook development tool and debugging tool.

Portmap.io - Expose your local PC to Internet from behind firewall and without real IP address

sish - An open source serveo/ngrok alternative. HTTP(S)/WS(S)/TCP Tunnels to localhost using only SSH.

LocalXpose - Bye Bye Localhost, Hello World!

Packetriot - Serve Web Apps. Connect to Hosts & Devices.

playit.gg - Making it easy to play games with friends since March 2020.