Lets Encrypt vs Hanko: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Lets Encrypt and Hanko 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:
Lets Encrypt
Free automated SSL/TLS certificates
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.5/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • 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
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Best for you if:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Hanko is an open-source authentication solution with passkey support
- • It provides passwordless login using WebAuthn with drop-in authentication UI
| At a Glance |  Lets Encrypt |  Hanko |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Automation | API Tools |
Rating | 95/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Lets Encrypt | Hanko |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 95 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AutomationIdentity & Access | API ToolsPassword Managers |
How Lets Encrypt and Hanko Compare
Lets Encrypt
Free automated SSL/TLS certificates
Free · 95/100 score
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Lets Encrypt is a automation tool. Hanko is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Lets Encrypt is free. Hanko is freemium.
Go with: Lets Encrypt
Want the highest-rated option?
Lets Encrypt: 95/100. Hanko: 80/100.
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?
Lets Encrypt is free. Hanko is freemium. Go with Lets Encrypt if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Lets Encrypt is a automation tool. Hanko is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Lets Encrypt scores higher: 95/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Lets Encrypt
- Higher score: 95/100 vs 80
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Hanko
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Lets Encrypt (95/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lets Encrypt or Hanko better?
Lets Encrypt scores 95/100 in our evaluation. Lets Encrypt is free and Hanko is freemium.
What are Lets Encrypt and Hanko used for?
Lets Encrypt: Free automated SSL/TLS certificates. Hanko: Open-source authentication with passkeys.
What does Lets Encrypt cost vs Hanko?
Lets Encrypt is completely free. Hanko is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.