Lets Encrypt vs Hanko: Which is Better 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.
Bottom line: Lets Encrypt wins this matchup. 1Password is our overall Security pick. LastPass is our free Security pick. Pick Hanko if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
Based on published vendor pricing and features and on public review data, here's who should pick what:
Lets Encrypt
Free automated SSL/TLS certificates
Best for you if:
- • You want a fully free tool (Hanko requires payment)
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Best for you if:
- • You want passwordless auth
| At a Glance | Lets Encrypt | Hanko |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free 100% free | Free Free plan |
Category | Security Automation | Security Identity & Access |
Rating | 4.8/5 G2 4.8 20 reviews | n/a |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Watch out for | Certificates valid for only 90 days | SAML SSO is an addon in Pro tier |
Choose Lets Encrypt or Hanko?
Choose Lets Encrypt if
- You want a fully free tool (Hanko requires payment)
- You want free SSL certificates
- You want automated renewal
Choose Hanko if
- You want passwordless auth
- You want open source
In-Depth Analysis
Lets Encrypt
Free automated SSL/TLS certificates
Let's Encrypt offers an exceptionally fair and generous pricing model, as it is entirely free.
Watch out
Certificates valid for only 90 days
Strengths
- Pro: Free SSL certificates
- Pro: Automated renewal
- Pro: Wide support
- Pro: Open source
- Pro: Industry standard
Weaknesses
- Con: 90-day certificates
- Con: No wildcard easy
- Con: Setup complexity
- Con: Rate limits
- Con: No warranty
Key features
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Hanko's pricing is quite generous, especially with its robust free tier offering 10,000 MAUs.
Watch out
SAML SSO is an addon in Pro tier
Strengths
- Pro: Passwordless auth
- Pro: Open source
- Pro: Self-hostable
- Pro: Passkey support
- Pro: Good documentation
Weaknesses
- Con: Newer platform
- Con: Limited features
- Con: Community smaller
- Con: Enterprise features paid
- Con: Integration effort
Key features
Pricing: Lets Encrypt vs Hanko
| Plan | Lets Encrypt | Hanko |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Free | Free Starter |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $29 Pro |
| Tier 3 | N/A | Custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Lets Encrypt pricing and Hanko pricing.
Key Takeaways
Lets Encrypt
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Hanko
- Choose if you want open-source authentication with passkeys
The Bottom Line
Lets Encrypt wins this matchup. 1Password is our overall Security pick. LastPass is our free Security pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lets Encrypt or Hanko better in 2026?
Lets Encrypt wins this matchup. 1Password is our overall Security pick. LastPass is our free Security pick. Pick Lets Encrypt for security workflows (main strength: free SSL certificates). Pick Hanko for security workflows (main strength: passwordless auth).
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 free. Hanko's paid plans start at Free (Pro).
What's the main difference between Lets Encrypt and Hanko?
Lets Encrypt's main strength: free SSL certificates. Hanko's main strength: passwordless auth.