Hosting OpenClaw: Managed SaaS vs. Docker

The eternal question for new AI agent users: should you pay for hosting or host it yourself?

The Managed Route (SimpleClaw, ClawCloud)

Pros:

• Zero Infrastructure: No VPS, no Docker.
• Updates: The platform handles breaking changes.
• Support: You have someone to email.

Cons:

• Cost: Usually monthly subscriptions ($20-$50/mo).
• Data Control: Your logs live on their servers.

The Self-Hosted Route (OpenClaw CLI, PortMaster)

Pros:

• Free: Aside from server costs ($5 VPS), the software is free.
• Ultimate Privacy: Your machine, your rules.

Cons:

• Maintenance: You fix it when an update breaks Docker.
• Complexity: Requires command-line knowledge.

Conclusion

If you are a developer, self-hosting is rewarding. If you just want an assistant that works now, choose a managed wrapper.