Kubernetes Practical By Samson Tanimawo, PhD Published Jan 20, 2026 4 min read

Cluster Sizing 2026

Sizing the cluster: nodes, pods per node, headroom.

Pods per node

Default 110; can be raised with prefix delegation.

Higher density = fewer nodes.

Total pods / pods-per-node + 20% headroom.

Headroom for autoscaling and replacements.

Quarterly: actuals vs plan. Adjust sizing.

Drift accumulates.