Chainguard vs Rely.io: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Chainguard and Rely.io 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Chainguard
The trusted source for secure-by-default open source software components.
Best for you if:
- • You need security monitoring features specifically
- • Provides secure-by-default container images, language libraries, and VMs.
- • Significantly reduces CVEs and attack surface in open-source components.
Rely.io
Streamline your software supply chain security and compliance with a unified platform.
Best for you if:
- • You need vulnerability scanning features specifically
- • Unified software supply chain security
- • Vulnerability management and remediation
| At a Glance |  Chainguard |  Rely.io |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Security Monitoring | Vulnerability Scanning |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Chainguard | Rely.io |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Security MonitoringCompliance Management | Vulnerability ScanningSecurity Monitoring |
How Chainguard and Rely.io Compare
Chainguard
The trusted source for secure-by-default open source software components.
Free tier available
Rely.io
Streamline your software supply chain security and compliance with a unified platform.
Free tier available
Chainguard is a security monitoring tool. Rely.io is in vulnerability scanning.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Chainguard
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: Chainguard
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Chainguard
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Chainguard is a security monitoring tool. Rely.io is in vulnerability scanning. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Chainguard
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Rely.io
- Better fit for vulnerability scanning
The Bottom Line
Chainguard is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chainguard or Rely.io better?
Chainguard scores high/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Chainguard and Rely.io used for?
Chainguard: The trusted source for secure-by-default open source software components.. Rely.io: Streamline your software supply chain security and compliance with a unified platform..
What does Chainguard cost vs Rely.io?
Chainguard is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Rely.io is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.