Langfuse vs Lakera: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Langfuse and Lakera 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:
Langfuse
Open Source LLM Engineering Platform for debugging and improving your LLM application.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.4/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need ai observability features specifically
- • Provides observability, traces, and metrics for LLM applications.
- • Offers prompt management, evaluation, and annotation features.
Lakera
The AI-native security platform to accelerate GenAI development and protect against emerging threats.
Best for you if:
- • You need security monitoring features specifically
- • Provides real-time, AI-native security for generative AI applications.
- • Offers prompt injection prevention, data leakage protection, and content moderation.
| At a Glance |  Langfuse |  Lakera |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | AI Observability | Security Monitoring |
Rating | 74/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Langfuse | Lakera |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 74 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AI ObservabilityDebugging | Security MonitoringVulnerability Scanning |
Understanding the Differences
Both Langfuse and Lakera solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Langfuse positions itself as "open source llm engineering platform for debugging and improving your llm application." while Lakerafocuses on "the ai-native security platform to accelerate genai development and protect against emerging threats.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Langfuse
Langfuse makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 74/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Lakera
Lakera is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Langfuse lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Langfuse
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Langfuse handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Langfuse
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Langfuse
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Langfuse, 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 Langfuse higher (74/100). But the community has upvoted Lakera more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Langfuse Does Better
- Higher overall score (74/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Lakera If
- You want to start free and scale later
- 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 Langfuse (74/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Langfuse scores higher in our analysis, but Lakera 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 Langfuse or Lakera better?
Based on our analysis, Langfuse scores higher with 74/100. Langfuse isfreemium while Lakera is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Langfuse to Lakera 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 Langfuse and Lakera offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Langfuse is freemium with a free tier.Lakera is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.