AWS Secrets Manager vs Duo Security: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between AWS Secrets Manager and Duo Security comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
AWS Secrets Manager
AWS service for storing and rotating secrets securely
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.3/10)
- • You need password managers features specifically
- • AWS Secrets Manager helps you securely store and rotate database credentials, API keys, and other secrets
- • It integrates natively with AWS services and supports automatic rotation for RDS and other databases
Duo Security
Multi-factor authentication for enterprises
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need identity & access features specifically
- • Duo Security is a multi-factor authentication platform for securing access to applications
- • It provides 2FA, device trust, and single sign-on with easy deployment across any app
| At a Glance |  AWS Secrets Manager |  Duo Security |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Password Managers | Identity & Access |
Rating | 86/100 | 83/100 |
| Feature | AWS Secrets Manager | Duo Security |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 83 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Password ManagersEncryption | Identity & AccessPassword Managers |
Understanding the Differences
Both AWS Secrets Manager and Duo Security solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.AWS Secrets Manager positions itself as "aws service for storing and rotating secrets securely" while Duo Securityfocuses on "multi-factor authentication for enterprises". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose AWS Secrets Manager
AWS Secrets Manager makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution. With a score of 86/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Duo Security
Duo Security is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Duo Security won't cost you anything to start, which is exactly what early-stage teams need.
We'd pick: Duo Security
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. AWS Secrets Manager handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: AWS Secrets Manager
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. AWS Secrets Manager is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: AWS Secrets Manager
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Want to test first? Duo Security has a free tier to get you started.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated AWS Secrets Manager higher (86/100). But the community has upvoted Duo Security more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What AWS Secrets Manager Does Better
- Higher overall score (86/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Duo Security If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with AWS Secrets Manager (86/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. AWS Secrets Manager scores higher in our analysis, but Duo Security might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AWS Secrets Manager or Duo Security better?
Based on our analysis, AWS Secrets Manager scores higher with 86/100. AWS Secrets Manager ispaid while Duo Security is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from AWS Secrets Manager to Duo Security easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do AWS Secrets Manager and Duo Security offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. AWS Secrets Manager is paid with potential trial.Duo Security is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.