Checkmarx vs Fortify: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Checkmarx and Fortify 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:
Checkmarx
Application security testing platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.8/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need code review features specifically
- • Checkmarx is an enterprise application security testing platform for finding vulnerabilities in code
- • It provides SAST, SCA, and DAST scanning integrated into CI/CD pipelines
Fortify
Comprehensive application security testing for identifying and remediating vulnerabilities.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need vulnerability scanning features specifically
- • Comprehensive SAST, DAST, and IAST capabilities
- • Integrates security into the SDLC
| At a Glance |  Checkmarx |  Fortify |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Code Review | Vulnerability Scanning |
Rating | 78/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Checkmarx | Fortify |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 78 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Code ReviewTesting & QA | Vulnerability Scanning |
How Checkmarx and Fortify Compare
Checkmarx
Application security testing platform
Paid · 78/100 score
Fortify
Comprehensive application security testing for identifying and remediating vulnerabilities.
Free tier available
Checkmarx is a code review tool. Fortify is in vulnerability scanning.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Fortify has a free tier. Checkmarx is paid only.
Go with: Fortify
Want the highest-rated option?
Checkmarx scores 78/100. Fortify is unrated.
Go with: Checkmarx
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Checkmarx
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Checkmarx is paid. Fortify is freemium. Fortify lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Checkmarx is a code review tool. Fortify is in vulnerability scanning. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Checkmarx
- Higher score: 78/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
Fortify
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for vulnerability scanning
The Bottom Line
Checkmarx (78/100) is our pick. Fortify has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Checkmarx or Fortify better?
Checkmarx scores 78/100 in our evaluation. Checkmarx is paid and Fortify is freemium.
What are Checkmarx and Fortify used for?
Checkmarx: Application security testing platform. Fortify: Comprehensive application security testing for identifying and remediating vulnerabilities..
What does Checkmarx cost vs Fortify?
Checkmarx is a paid tool. Fortify is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.