Lets Encrypt vs Certbot: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Lets Encrypt and Certbot 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 May 6, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Lets Encrypt
Free automated SSL/TLS certificates
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need automation features specifically
- • Let's Encrypt is a free certificate authority providing SSL/TLS certificates
- • It automates the issuance and renewal of HTTPS certificates for any website
Certbot
Automated Let's Encrypt certificate management
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • Certbot is a free tool for automatically obtaining and renewing Let's Encrypt certificates
- • It configures HTTPS on web servers with a single command
| At a Glance |  Lets Encrypt |  Certbot |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Automation | Hosting & Deployment |
Rating | — | — |
| Feature | Lets Encrypt | Certbot |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AutomationIdentity & Access | Hosting & DeploymentAutomation |
How Lets Encrypt and Certbot Compare
Lets Encrypt
Free automated SSL/TLS certificates
Free
Certbot
Automated Let's Encrypt certificate management
Free
Lets Encrypt is a automation tool. Certbot is in hosting & deployment.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Lets Encrypt
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Lets Encrypt
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Lets Encrypt
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?
Lets Encrypt is a automation tool. Certbot is in hosting & deployment. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Lets Encrypt
- 0
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Certbot
- Better fit for hosting & deployment
The Bottom Line
Lets Encrypt is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lets Encrypt or Certbot better?
Lets Encrypt is rated high in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Lets Encrypt and Certbot used for?
Lets Encrypt: Free automated SSL/TLS certificates. Certbot: Automated Let's Encrypt certificate management.
What does Lets Encrypt cost vs Certbot?
Lets Encrypt is completely free. Certbot is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.