Checkmarx vs Nuclei: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Checkmarx and Nuclei 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 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
Nuclei
Automate custom vulnerability detection and map internet-exposed assets at scale.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need automation features specifically
- • Automates custom vulnerability detection using security templates.
- • Maps internet-exposed assets and monitors cloud environments (AWS, GCP, Azure, Cloudflare).
| At a Glance |  Checkmarx |  Nuclei |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Code Review | Automation |
Rating | 78/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | Checkmarx | Nuclei |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 78 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Code ReviewTesting & QA | AutomationInfrastructure as Code |
How Checkmarx and Nuclei Compare
Checkmarx
Application security testing platform
Paid · 78/100 score
Nuclei
Automate custom vulnerability detection and map internet-exposed assets at scale.
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Checkmarx is a code review tool. Nuclei is in automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Nuclei has a free tier. Checkmarx is paid only.
Go with: Nuclei
Want the highest-rated option?
Checkmarx: 78/100. Nuclei: 84/100.
Go with: Nuclei
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Nuclei
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Checkmarx is paid. Nuclei is freemium. Nuclei lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Checkmarx is a code review tool. Nuclei is in automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Nuclei scores higher: 84/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
Nuclei
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 78
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Checkmarx
- Better fit for code review
The Bottom Line
Nuclei (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Checkmarx or Nuclei better?
Nuclei scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Checkmarx is paid and Nuclei is freemium.
What are Checkmarx and Nuclei used for?
Checkmarx: Application security testing platform. Nuclei: Automate custom vulnerability detection and map internet-exposed assets at scale..
What does Checkmarx cost vs Nuclei?
Checkmarx is a paid tool. Nuclei is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.