CodeQL vs Nuclei: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between CodeQL 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:
CodeQL
Discover vulnerabilities across a codebase with industry-leading semantic code analysis.
Best for you if:
- • You need debugging features specifically
- • Semantic code analysis engine for vulnerability discovery.
- • Allows querying code like data to find security flaws.
Nuclei
Automate custom vulnerability detection and map internet-exposed assets at scale.
Best for you if:
- • 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 |  CodeQL |  Nuclei |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Debugging | Automation |
Rating | 84/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | CodeQL | Nuclei |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | DebuggingCode Review | AutomationInfrastructure as Code |
How CodeQL and Nuclei Compare
CodeQL
Discover vulnerabilities across a codebase with industry-leading semantic code analysis.
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Nuclei
Automate custom vulnerability detection and map internet-exposed assets at scale.
Free tier available · 84/100 score
CodeQL is a debugging tool. Nuclei is in automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: CodeQL
Want the highest-rated option?
CodeQL: 84/100. Nuclei: 84/100.
Go with: CodeQL
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: CodeQL
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?
CodeQL is a debugging tool. Nuclei is in automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Both score 84/100.
Key Takeaways
CodeQL
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Nuclei
- Better fit for automation
The Bottom Line
CodeQL (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CodeQL or Nuclei better?
CodeQL scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are CodeQL and Nuclei used for?
CodeQL: Discover vulnerabilities across a codebase with industry-leading semantic code analysis.. Nuclei: Automate custom vulnerability detection and map internet-exposed assets at scale..
What does CodeQL cost vs Nuclei?
CodeQL is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Nuclei is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.