Hanko vs smallstep: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Hanko and smallstep 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:
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need API tools features specifically
- • Hanko is an open-source authentication solution with passkey support
- • It provides passwordless login using WebAuthn with drop-in authentication UI
smallstep
Zero-trust access and certificate management
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need automation features specifically
- • smallstep is an open-source certificate management platform
- • It provides automated TLS certificates for internal infrastructure
| At a Glance |  Hanko |  smallstep |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | Automation |
Rating | - | - |
| Feature | Hanko | smallstep |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsPassword Managers | AutomationIdentity & Access |
How Hanko and smallstep Compare
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Free tier available
smallstep
Zero-trust access and certificate management
Free tier available
Hanko is a API tools tool. smallstep is in automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Hanko
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Hanko
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Hanko
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?
Hanko is a API tools tool. smallstep is in automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Hanko
- 0
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
smallstep
- Better fit for automation
The Bottom Line
Hanko is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hanko or smallstep better?
Hanko is rated high in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Hanko and smallstep used for?
Hanko: Open-source authentication with passkeys. smallstep: Zero-trust access and certificate management.
What does Hanko cost vs smallstep?
Hanko is freemium (free tier + paid plans). smallstep is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.