Keycloak vs Zitadel: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Keycloak and Zitadel 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:
Keycloak
Open-source identity and access management
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need password managers features specifically
- • Keycloak is an open-source identity and access management solution
- • It provides SSO, social login, and user federation for applications and services
Zitadel
Open-source identity management
Best for you if:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Zitadel is an open-source identity management platform
- • It provides authentication, authorization, and user management
| At a Glance |  Zitadel | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Password Managers | API Tools |
Rating | 88/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Keycloak | Zitadel |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Password ManagersIdentity & Access | API ToolsHosting & Deployment |
How Keycloak and Zitadel Compare
Keycloak
Open-source identity and access management
Free · 88/100 score
Zitadel
Open-source identity management
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Keycloak is a password managers tool. Zitadel is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Keycloak is free. Zitadel is freemium.
Go with: Keycloak
Want the highest-rated option?
Keycloak: 88/100. Zitadel: 82/100.
Go with: Keycloak
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Keycloak
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Keycloak is free. Zitadel is freemium. Go with Keycloak if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Keycloak is a password managers tool. Zitadel is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Keycloak scores higher: 88/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Keycloak
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 82
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Zitadel
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Keycloak (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Keycloak or Zitadel better?
Keycloak scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Keycloak is free and Zitadel is freemium.
What are Keycloak and Zitadel used for?
Keycloak: Open-source identity and access management. Zitadel: Open-source identity management.
What does Keycloak cost vs Zitadel?
Keycloak is completely free. Zitadel is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.