Hanko vs Stytch: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Hanko and Stytch 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.
Bottom line: Stytch wins this matchup. LastPass is our overall Identity & Access pick. LastPass is our free Identity & Access pick. Pick Hanko if you need security.
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:
- • You want passwordless auth
- • You want open source
Stytch
Authentication infrastructure for developers
Best for you if:
- • You want passwordless auth
- • You want good documentation
| At a Glance | Hanko | Stytch |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Security | Identity & Access |
Rating | - | 4.8/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Hanko or Stytch?
Choose Hanko if
Open-source authentication with passkeys
- You want passwordless auth
- You want open source
- Your work is security-shaped, not identity & access-shaped
Choose Stytch if
Authentication infrastructure for developers
- You want passwordless auth
- You want good documentation
- Your work is identity & access-shaped, not security-shaped
| Feature | Hanko | Stytch |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.8/5 37 reviews |
| Categories | SecurityIdentity & Access | Identity & AccessAPI Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Hanko's pricing is quite generous, especially with its robust free tier offering 10,000 MAUs.
Watch out
SAML SSO is an addon in Pro tier
Strengths
- +Passwordless auth
- +Open source
- +Self-hostable
- +Passkey support
- +Good documentation
Weaknesses
- -Newer platform
- -Limited features
- -Community smaller
- -Enterprise features paid
- -Integration effort
Key features
Stytch
Authentication infrastructure for developers
Stytch's pricing is quite fair and generous, especially with a robust free tier offering 5,000 MAUs.
Watch out
No explicit mention of overage fees beyond MAU
Strengths
- +Passwordless auth
- +Good documentation
- +Active development
- +Good features
- +Developer friendly
Weaknesses
- -Per-MAU pricing
- -Can get expensive
- -Learning curve
- -Vendor lock-in
- -Better alternatives exist
Key features
Pricing: Hanko vs Stytch
| Plan | Hanko | Stytch |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Starter | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $29 Pro | $0.05 /MAU Pro |
| Tier 3 | Custom Enterprise | custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Hanko pricing and Stytch pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Hanko
Want the highest-rated option?
Stytch is rated 4.8/5. Hanko has no ratings yet.
Go with: Stytch
Value user reviews?
Hanko: no ratings yet. Stytch: 37 reviews (4.8/5).
Go with: Stytch
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 security tool. Stytch is in identity & access. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Stytch is rated 4.8/5; Hanko has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Stytch
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Hanko
- Better fit for security
The Bottom Line
Stytch wins this matchup. LastPass is our overall Identity & Access pick. LastPass is our free Identity & Access pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hanko or Stytch better?
Stytch is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Hanko and Stytch used for?
Hanko: Open-source authentication with passkeys. Stytch: Authentication infrastructure for developers.
What does Hanko cost vs Stytch?
Hanko is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Stytch is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.