Lets Encrypt vs Zitadel: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Lets Encrypt 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:
Lets Encrypt
Free automated SSL/TLS certificates
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.5/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • 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
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 |  Lets Encrypt |  Zitadel |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Automation | API Tools |
Rating | 95/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Lets Encrypt | Zitadel |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 95 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AutomationIdentity & Access | API ToolsHosting & Deployment |
How Lets Encrypt and Zitadel Compare
Lets Encrypt
Free automated SSL/TLS certificates
Free · 95/100 score
Zitadel
Open-source identity management
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Lets Encrypt is a automation tool. Zitadel is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Lets Encrypt is free. Zitadel is freemium.
Go with: Lets Encrypt
Want the highest-rated option?
Lets Encrypt: 95/100. Zitadel: 82/100.
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. Zitadel is freemium. Go with Lets Encrypt if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Lets Encrypt is a automation tool. Zitadel is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Lets Encrypt scores higher: 95/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Lets Encrypt
- Higher score: 95/100 vs 82
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Zitadel
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Lets Encrypt (95/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lets Encrypt or Zitadel better?
Lets Encrypt scores 95/100 in our evaluation. Lets Encrypt is free and Zitadel is freemium.
What are Lets Encrypt and Zitadel used for?
Lets Encrypt: Free automated SSL/TLS certificates. Zitadel: Open-source identity management.
What does Lets Encrypt cost vs Zitadel?
Lets Encrypt is completely free. Zitadel is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.