HashiCorp Vault vs AWS Secrets Manager: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between HashiCorp Vault 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:
HashiCorp Vault
Secrets management and data protection
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need identity & access features specifically
- • HashiCorp Vault is a secrets management tool for storing and controlling access to sensitive data
- • It provides encryption, dynamic secrets, and access policies across infrastructure
AWS Secrets Manager
AWS service for storing and rotating secrets securely
Best for you if:
- • 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 |  HashiCorp Vault |  AWS Secrets Manager |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Identity & Access | Password Managers |
Rating | 86/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | HashiCorp Vault | AWS Secrets Manager |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Identity & AccessEncryption | Password ManagersEncryption |
Understanding the Differences
Both HashiCorp Vault and AWS Secrets Manager solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.HashiCorp Vault positions itself as "secrets management and data protection" 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 HashiCorp Vault
HashiCorp Vault makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution.
When to Choose AWS Secrets Manager
AWS Secrets Manager is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, HashiCorp Vault lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: HashiCorp Vault
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?
Tight budget? Start free with HashiCorp Vault, upgrade when you're ready.
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 HashiCorp Vault higher (86/100). But the community has upvoted AWS Secrets Manager more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What HashiCorp Vault Does Better
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider AWS Secrets Manager If
- 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 HashiCorp Vault (86/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. HashiCorp Vault scores higher in our analysis, but AWS Secrets Manager 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 HashiCorp Vault or AWS Secrets Manager better?
Based on our analysis, HashiCorp Vault scores higher with 86/100. HashiCorp Vault isfreemium 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 HashiCorp Vault 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 HashiCorp Vault and AWS Secrets Manager offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. HashiCorp Vault is freemium with a free tier.AWS Secrets Manager is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.