Checkov vs tfsec: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Checkov and tfsec 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:
Checkov
Infrastructure as code security
Best for you if:
- • You need infrastructure as code features specifically
- • Free open-source infrastructure-as-code security scanner by Bridgecrew (Prisma Cloud)
- • 1000+ built-in policies for Terraform, CloudFormation, Kubernetes, and Dockerfile
tfsec
Security scanner for your Terraform code.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.3/10 vs 7.0/10)
- • You need ci/cd features specifically
- • Scans Terraform code for security vulnerabilities.
- • Identifies misconfigurations before deployment.
| At a Glance |  Checkov |  tfsec |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Infrastructure as Code | CI/CD |
Rating | 70/100 | 73/100 |
| Feature | Checkov | tfsec |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 70 | 73 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Infrastructure as CodeVulnerability Scanning | CI/CDInfrastructure as Code |
How Checkov and tfsec Compare
Checkov
Infrastructure as code security
Free · 70/100 score
tfsec
Security scanner for your Terraform code.
Free · 73/100 score
Checkov is a infrastructure as code tool. tfsec is in ci/cd.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Checkov
Want the highest-rated option?
Checkov: 70/100. tfsec: 73/100.
Go with: tfsec
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: tfsec
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Checkov is a infrastructure as code tool. tfsec is in ci/cd. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
tfsec scores higher: 73/100 vs 70/100.
Key Takeaways
tfsec
- Higher score: 73/100 vs 70
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Checkov
- Better fit for infrastructure as code
The Bottom Line
tfsec (73/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Checkov or tfsec better?
tfsec scores 73/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Checkov and tfsec used for?
Checkov: Infrastructure as code security. tfsec: Security scanner for your Terraform code..
What does Checkov cost vs tfsec?
Checkov is completely free. tfsec is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.