Backup for GKE review
A focused GKE backup service with low namespace-based entry pricing.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Backup for GKE is a managed Google Cloud service for backing up and restoring Kubernetes workloads and persistent data in Google Kubernetes Engine clusters. It suits teams that need namespace- or application-based protection, scheduled backups, persistent-disk snapshots, and restores to another cluster or project. Workloads can include Kubernetes resource configuration manifests alongside persistent data, with application-specific pre- and post-backup hooks available for backup workflows.
Pricing is split into two usage-based plans. Backup management starts at $9 USD per namespace per month, while backup storage is priced at $0.045 USD per GiB per month. The published pricing model is monthly and is listed for us-central1, with other regions potentially varying. There is no free plan. For teams comparing costs, the namespace-based management fee provides a low entry point, while storage adds a separate recurring charge based on retained backup volume.
The feature set is strongest for controlled recovery workflows. Users can create manual or recurring scheduled backups, use cron or smart scheduling based on a target RPO, define retention periods, and apply locked delete windows. Restore transformation and conflict-handling rules support more deliberate recovery operations, including cross-cluster and cross-project restores. Backup for GKE connects with Google Cloud Console, Google Cloud CLI, REST API, and kubectl. It is a strong fit for GKE users seeking focused backup management, but teams operating outside GKE or relying on volume types beyond Persistent Disk should consider a broader Kubernetes backup product.
Backup for GKE pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Starts at $9 per namespace per month
- Supports cross-cluster and cross-project restores
- Offers RPO-based scheduling, retention locks, and restore rules
- Where it doesn't
- Coverage centers on Google Kubernetes Engine clusters
- Persistent volume support is documented for Persistent Disk volumes
- There is no free plan
Backup for GKE fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update