Docker vs Kaniko: What’s the Difference and When to Use Each

Published on: 2025-08-13

If you work with containers, you’ve probably heard of Docker. But what about Kaniko?
Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Docker

Docker is a universal tool for building, running, and managing containers.
When you run docker build, Docker uses its daemon to build the image.
The catch: it requires a full Docker installation and root privileges, which isn’t always safe or possible — especially in CI/CD.

Kaniko

Kaniko is a tool from Google for building Docker images without running the Docker daemon.
It works inside a container, reads a standard Dockerfile, and builds the image entirely in user space.
Perfect for CI/CD in Kubernetes where you don’t have access to full Docker.

Key difference

  • Docker: needs a daemon and root access. Faster for local builds.
  • Kaniko: daemonless, safer for Kubernetes and CI, but can be slower.

When to use each?

  • Docker: local development, quick builds, debugging.
  • Kaniko: CI/CD, Kubernetes, cloud builds without root.

Conclusion

Docker and Kaniko aren’t rivals — they’re teammates. Docker is perfect for local dev, Kaniko shines in secure cloud builds.

→ Learn more: