Hapi vs Fastify: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Hapi and Fastify 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:
Hapi
Build powerful, scalable applications with a simple, secure, and developer-first Node.js framework.
Best for you if:
- • A secure, dependency-free Node.js framework for scalable applications.
- • Prioritizes security, quality, and developer experience with robust features.
Fastify
Fast and low overhead web framework for Node.js, focused on developer experience and performance.
Best for you if:
- • High-performance Node.js web framework.
- • Extensible with hooks, plugins, and decorators.
| At a Glance |  Hapi |  Fastify |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Developer Tools | Developer Tools |
Rating | - | - |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Hapi or Fastify?
Choose Hapi if
Build powerful, scalable applications with a simple, secure, and developer-first Node.js framework.
- Extremely secure due to no external dependencies and strict protocols.
- High code quality with 100% coverage and focus on readability.
- Predictable ownership and well-defined security update protocols.
Choose Fastify if
Fast and low overhead web framework for Node.js, focused on developer experience and performance.
- Fastest Node.js framework
- TypeScript-first design
- Schema validation built-in
| Feature | Hapi | Fastify |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Categories | Developer ToolsAPI Tools | Developer ToolsAPI Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
Hapi
Build powerful, scalable applications with a simple, secure, and developer-first Node.js framework.
Strengths
- +Extremely secure due to no external dependencies and strict protocols.
- +High code quality with 100% coverage and focus on readability.
- +Predictable ownership and well-defined security update protocols.
- +Developer-first design for intuitive use and minimal 'magic'.
- +Proven scalability, used by large enterprises like Walmart.
Weaknesses
- -May have a learning curve for developers new to its specific patterns.
- -Focus on security and quality might mean a slightly different approach compared to other frameworks.
Key features
Fastify
Fast and low overhead web framework for Node.js, focused on developer experience and performance.
Strengths
- +Fastest Node.js framework
- +TypeScript-first design
- +Schema validation built-in
- +Plugin architecture
- +Excellent documentation
Weaknesses
- -Smaller ecosystem than Express
- -Learning curve for plugin system
- -Less community content
- -Some middleware incompatibility
- -Fewer tutorials available
Key features
Pricing: Hapi vs Fastify
| Plan | Hapi | Fastify |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | N/A | Free Free |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Hapi pricing and Fastify pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Hapi
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has ratings yet.
Too early to call on ratings — compare on features and pricing.
Value user reviews?
Neither has ratings yet.
Too early to call — neither has ratings yet.
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?
Both are developer tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Fastify
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Hapi
- Choose if you want build powerful, scalable applications with a simple, secure, and developer-first Node.js framework
The Bottom Line
Fastify is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hapi or Fastify better?
Fastify is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Hapi and Fastify used for?
Hapi: Build powerful, scalable applications with a simple, secure, and developer-first Node.js framework.. Fastify: Fast and low overhead web framework for Node.js, focused on developer experience and performance..
What does Hapi cost vs Fastify?
Hapi is completely free. Fastify is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.