Datadog vs Socket: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Datadog and Socket 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Datadog
Cloud monitoring platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.9/10)
- • You need monitoring features specifically
- • Cloud monitoring and security platform
- • Unified observability across infrastructure
Socket
Secure your dependencies and ship with confidence.
Best for you if:
- • You need vulnerability scanning features specifically
- • Secures software supply chains by detecting malicious and vulnerable dependencies.
- • Uses AI and reachability analysis to reduce false positives and prioritize real risks.
| At a Glance |  Datadog | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Monitoring | Vulnerability Scanning |
Rating | 90/100 | 89/100 |
| Feature | Datadog | Socket |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 90 | 89 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | MonitoringLog Management | Vulnerability ScanningSecurity Monitoring |
Understanding the Differences
Both Datadog and Socket solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Datadog positions itself as "cloud monitoring platform" while Socketfocuses on "secure your dependencies and ship with confidence.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Datadog
Datadog makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 90/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Socket
Socket is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Datadog lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Datadog
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Datadog handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Datadog
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Datadog
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Datadog, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Datadog higher (90/100). But the community has upvoted Socket more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Datadog Does Better
- Higher overall score (90/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Socket If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Datadog (90/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Datadog scores higher in our analysis, but Socket might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Datadog or Socket better?
Based on our analysis, Datadog scores higher with 90/100. Datadog isfreemium while Socket is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Datadog to Socket easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Datadog and Socket offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Datadog is freemium with a free tier.Socket is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.