Casdoor vs Authelia: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Casdoor and Authelia 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:
Casdoor
An open-source, UI-first identity and access management and single sign-on platform.
Best for you if:
- • Open-source IAM/SSO platform with a modern web UI.
- • Supports a wide range of authentication protocols and identity providers.
Authelia
Open-source authentication and authorization server
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • Authelia is an open-source authentication server providing SSO and 2FA for applications
- • It works as a reverse proxy companion to protect internal services with access control
| At a Glance |  Casdoor |  Authelia |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Identity & Access | Identity & Access |
Rating | —/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Casdoor | Authelia |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Identity & Access | Identity & AccessPassword Managers |
Understanding the Differences
Both Casdoor and Authelia solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Casdoor positions itself as "an open-source, ui-first identity and access management and single sign-on platform." while Autheliafocuses on "open-source authentication and authorization server". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Casdoor
Casdoor makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution.
When to Choose Authelia
Authelia is worth considering if you need a free tool. Scoring 80/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Casdoor lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Casdoor
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Authelia is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Authelia
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Authelia
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? Casdoor is completely free.
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 Authelia higher (80/100). But the community has upvoted Authelia more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Authelia Does Better
- Higher overall score (80/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Casdoor If
- You need a completely free solution
- 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 Authelia (80/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Authelia scores higher in our analysis, but Casdoor 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 Casdoor or Authelia better?
Based on our analysis, Authelia scores higher with 80/100. Casdoor isfree while Authelia is free. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Casdoor to Authelia 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 Casdoor and Authelia offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Casdoor is completely free.Authelia is completely free. Visit their websites for current trial offers.