Comparison

StarSling vs Depot

Depot is known for fast Docker image builds, remote build caching, and CI infrastructure including GitHub Actions runners. StarSling overlaps on fast runners but its emphasis is self-driving GitHub Actions CI: AI agents that analyze your workflows and open optimization PRs over time. If your main pain is Docker build speed, Depot is purpose-built for that; if you want your whole GitHub Actions pipeline to improve itself, that's StarSling's focus.

Drop-in runner replacementAI optimization PRsGitHub Actions support

Last updated 2026-06-22

Head to head
Drop-in runner replacement
StarSlingYes, swap ubuntu-latest for starsling-ubuntu-24.04.
DepotOffers GitHub Actions runners alongside its build products.
AI optimization PRs
StarSlingYes. AI agents analyze logs/telemetry and open optimization PRs (early access).
DepotNot the focus; the emphasis is build acceleration and caching.
GitHub Actions support
StarSlingRuns your existing GitHub Actions workflows unchanged.
DepotYes. Runners and build acceleration integrate with GitHub Actions.
Primary focus
StarSlingSelf-driving GitHub Actions CI with agents that optimize the pipeline.
DepotDocker image build acceleration and remote build caching.
Pricing model
StarSlingUsage-based per-minute; 2,000 free min/mo to start; queue time never billed.
DepotUsage-based (see Depot's site for current pricing).
Best fit

Choose StarSling if

Teams that want their GitHub Actions pipeline to get faster on its own through AI-opened optimization PRs, not just faster builds.

Choose Depot if

Teams whose primary bottleneck is Docker image build time and who want best-in-class remote build caching.

FAQ
How is StarSling different from Depot?

Both speed up CI. Depot focuses on Docker build acceleration and remote caching; StarSling focuses on self-driving GitHub Actions CI, with AI agents that open optimization PRs.

Can I run my existing GitHub Actions workflows on StarSling?

Yes. StarSling Runners are a drop-in replacement: change the runs-on label to starsling-ubuntu-24.04 and keep your existing workflows.

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One line to install. Faster runs on day one, and agents that keep optimizing your pipeline through reviewable PRs.