Hono vs NestJS: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Hono and NestJS 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 need api tools features specifically
- • Ultrafast and lightweight web framework.
- • Multi-runtime support across various platforms.
NestJS
A progressive Node.js framework for building robust, scalable, and enterprise-ready server-side applications.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need ide & code editors features specifically
- • Open-source Node.js framework for building scalable server-side applications.
- • Features modular architecture, dependency injection, and TypeScript for robust development.
| At a Glance |  Hono |  NestJS |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | API Tools | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 84/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Hono | NestJS |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 85 |
| 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 NestJS Compare
Hono
Ultrafast web framework
Free · 84/100 score
NestJS
A progressive Node.js framework for building robust, scalable, and enterprise-ready server-side applications.
Free · 85/100 score
Hono is a api tools tool. NestJS 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. NestJS: 85/100.
Go with: NestJS
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: NestJS
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. NestJS is in ide & code editors. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
NestJS scores higher: 85/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
NestJS
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 84
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Hono
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
NestJS (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hono or NestJS better?
NestJS scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Hono and NestJS used for?
Hono: Ultrafast web framework. NestJS: A progressive Node.js framework for building robust, scalable, and enterprise-ready server-side applications..
What does Hono cost vs NestJS?
Hono is completely free. NestJS is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.