Best VPS for OpenClaw
Open-source personal AI agent that runs a gateway on your server and talks to you through messaging apps.
OpenClaw server requirements
| Minimum | Recommended | |
|---|---|---|
| vCPU | 1 | 2 |
| RAM | 2 GB | 4 GB |
| Disk | 10 GB | 40 GB |
- OS:
- Ubuntu 22.04 or 24.04 LTS
- Runtime:
- Node.js 24.16+ or 26.1+ (Node 22, 23, and 25 are not supported)
- Installation runs out of memory on 1 GB servers, so 2 GB is the practical minimum.
- Browser automation with Chromium needs about 2-4 GB extra; plan for 8 GB if you use it.
Official docs do not list server sizing; numbers are community recommendations.Official docs
Cheapest VPS for OpenClaw
Plans with at least 2 vCPU, 4 GB RAM, and 40 GB disk, sorted by monthly price.
| Provider | Plan | vCPU | RAM | Disk | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hostup | VPS XS | 2 | 4 GB | 50 GB | $4.48/mo | Details |
| Netcup | VPS 500 G12 | 2 | 4 GB | 128 GB | $5.59/mo | Details |
| Contabo | Storage Vps 10 NVME | 2 | 4 GB | 300 GB | $6.20/mo | Details |
| Hetzner | CX 23 | 2 | 4 GB | 40 GB | $6.75/mo | Details |
| Hetzner | CAX11 | 2 | 4 GB | 40 GB | $7.31/mo | Details |
| Netcup | VPS 1000 ARM G11 | 6 | 8 GB | 256 GB | $7.36/mo | Details |
| Contabo | Storage Vps 20 SSD | 3 | 8 GB | 400 GB | $8.45/mo | Details |
| Contabo | Cloud Vps Core 6 NVME | 6 | 12 GB | 200 GB | $8.45/mo | Details |
| Hostup | VPS SM | 4 | 8 GB | 100 GB | $8.86/mo | Details |
| Netcup | VPS 1000 G12 | 4 | 8 GB | 256 GB | $9.82/mo | Details |
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How to install OpenClaw on a VPS
Connect to your VPS over SSH and update the system
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -yRun the official installer, which also starts onboarding
curl -fsSL --proto '=https' --tlsv1.2 https://openclaw.ai/install.sh | bashRe-run onboarding later if you skipped it
openclaw onboard
Commands are taken from the official documentation; check it for the latest version.
Why host OpenClaw on a VPS?
OpenClaw runs a gateway that has to stay online to answer you in Telegram, WhatsApp, Discord, and other apps. A VPS keeps it running 24/7, isolates it from your personal computer, and lets it work while your laptop is closed.
FAQ
How much RAM does OpenClaw need?
Plan for at least 2 GB: installation often fails on 1 GB servers because it runs out of memory. 4 GB is comfortable for everyday use, and 8 GB is recommended if OpenClaw controls a Chromium browser.
Which Node.js version does OpenClaw need?
Node.js 24.16+ or 26.1+. The official installer detects and installs a supported version for you.
Is a 1 vCPU VPS enough?
For a single personal agent, yes. Choose 2 vCPU if you run several agents or heavy tools.