Dependabot vs semantic-release: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Dependabot and semantic-release 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:
Dependabot
Automated dependency updates for GitHub
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • You need automation features specifically
- • Dependabot is an automated dependency update tool that creates pull requests for outdated packages
- • It monitors your repositories and proposes updates with changelogs and compatibility scores
semantic-release
Automated version management and package publishing for consistent, semantic releases.
Best for you if:
- • You need version control features specifically
- • Automates package release workflow, including versioning, changelog generation, and publishing.
- • Enforces Semantic Versioning based on formalized commit messages.
| At a Glance |  Dependabot |  semantic-release |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Automation | Version Control |
Rating | 88/100 | 78/100 |
| Feature | Dependabot | semantic-release |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 78 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AutomationWorkflow Automation | Version ControlAutomation |
How Dependabot and semantic-release Compare
Dependabot
Automated dependency updates for GitHub
Free · 88/100 score
semantic-release
Automated version management and package publishing for consistent, semantic releases.
Free · 78/100 score
Dependabot is a automation tool. semantic-release is in version control.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Dependabot
Want the highest-rated option?
Dependabot: 88/100. semantic-release: 78/100.
Go with: Dependabot
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Dependabot
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?
Dependabot is a automation tool. semantic-release is in version control. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Dependabot scores higher: 88/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
Dependabot
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 78
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
semantic-release
- Better fit for version control
The Bottom Line
Dependabot (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dependabot or semantic-release better?
Dependabot scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Dependabot and semantic-release used for?
Dependabot: Automated dependency updates for GitHub. semantic-release: Automated version management and package publishing for consistent, semantic releases..
What does Dependabot cost vs semantic-release?
Dependabot is completely free. semantic-release is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.