Duo Security vs Magic: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Duo Security and Magic 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:
Duo Security
Multi-factor authentication for enterprises
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.3/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need password managers features specifically
- • Duo Security is a multi-factor authentication platform for securing access to applications
- • It provides 2FA, device trust, and single sign-on with easy deployment across any app
Magic
Passwordless authentication SDK
Best for you if:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Magic is a passwordless authentication SDK for web and mobile apps
- • It provides email-based login and wallet creation for Web3 applications
| At a Glance |  Duo Security |  Magic |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Password Managers | API Tools |
Rating | 83/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Duo Security | Magic |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 83 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Password ManagersIdentity & Access | API ToolsIdentity & Access |
How Duo Security and Magic Compare
Duo Security
Multi-factor authentication for enterprises
Free tier available · 83/100 score
Magic
Passwordless authentication SDK
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Duo Security is a password managers tool. Magic is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Duo Security
Want the highest-rated option?
Duo Security: 83/100. Magic: 80/100.
Go with: Duo Security
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Duo Security
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?
Duo Security is a password managers tool. Magic is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Duo Security scores higher: 83/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Duo Security
- Higher score: 83/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Magic
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Duo Security (83/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Duo Security or Magic better?
Duo Security scores 83/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Duo Security and Magic used for?
Duo Security: Multi-factor authentication for enterprises. Magic: Passwordless authentication SDK.
What does Duo Security cost vs Magic?
Duo Security is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Magic is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.