External Secrets vs AWS Secrets Manager: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between External Secrets and AWS Secrets Manager 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:
External Secrets
Synchronize secrets from external providers into Kubernetes.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need container orchestration features specifically
- • Synchronizes secrets from external providers into Kubernetes.
- • Enhances security by centralizing secret management.
AWS Secrets Manager
AWS service for storing and rotating secrets securely
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need password managers features specifically
- • AWS Secrets Manager helps you securely store and rotate database credentials, API keys, and other secrets
- • It integrates natively with AWS services and supports automatic rotation for RDS and other databases
| At a Glance |  AWS Secrets Manager | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Container Orchestration | Password Managers |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | External Secrets | AWS Secrets Manager |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Container OrchestrationIdentity & Access | Password ManagersEncryption |
Understanding the Differences
Both External Secrets and AWS Secrets Manager solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.External Secrets positions itself as "synchronize secrets from external providers into kubernetes." while AWS Secrets Managerfocuses on "aws service for storing and rotating secrets securely". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose External Secrets
External Secrets makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution.
When to Choose AWS Secrets Manager
AWS Secrets Manager is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool. Scoring 86/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, External Secrets lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: External Secrets
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. AWS Secrets Manager is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: AWS Secrets Manager
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. AWS Secrets Manager takes enterprise seriously.
We'd pick: AWS Secrets Manager
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? External Secrets is completely free.
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 AWS Secrets Manager higher (86/100). But the community has upvoted AWS Secrets Manager more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What AWS Secrets Manager Does Better
- Higher overall score (86/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider External Secrets If
- You need a completely free solution
- 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 AWS Secrets Manager (86/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. AWS Secrets Manager scores higher in our analysis, but External Secrets 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 External Secrets or AWS Secrets Manager better?
Based on our analysis, AWS Secrets Manager scores higher with 86/100. External Secrets isfree while AWS Secrets Manager is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from External Secrets to AWS Secrets Manager 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 External Secrets and AWS Secrets Manager offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. External Secrets is completely free.AWS Secrets Manager is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.