Hono vs Fastify: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Hono 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Hono
Ultrafast web framework
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 7.4/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Ultrafast and lightweight web framework.
- • Multi-runtime support across various platforms.
Fastify
Fast and low overhead web framework for Node.js, focused on developer experience and performance.
Best for you if:
- • You need ide & code editors features specifically
- • High-performance Node.js web framework.
- • Extensible with hooks, plugins, and decorators.
| At a Glance |  Hono |  Fastify |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | API Tools | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 84/100 | 74/100 |
| Feature | Hono | Fastify |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 74 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsServerless | IDE & Code EditorsAPI Tools |
How Hono and Fastify Compare
Hono
Ultrafast web framework
Free · 84/100 score
Fastify
Fast and low overhead web framework for Node.js, focused on developer experience and performance.
Free · 74/100 score
Hono is a api tools tool. Fastify is in ide & code editors.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Hono
Want the highest-rated option?
Hono: 84/100. Fastify: 74/100.
Go with: Hono
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Hono
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?
Hono is a api tools tool. Fastify is in ide & code editors. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Hono scores higher: 84/100 vs 74/100.
Key Takeaways
Hono
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 74
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Fastify
- Better fit for ide & code editors
The Bottom Line
Hono (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hono or Fastify better?
Hono scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Hono and Fastify used for?
Hono: Ultrafast web framework. Fastify: Fast and low overhead web framework for Node.js, focused on developer experience and performance..
What does Hono cost vs Fastify?
Hono is completely free. Fastify is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.