LGTM vs Checkmarx: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between LGTM and Checkmarx 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:
LGTM
Code analysis platform integrated into GitHub for identifying security vulnerabilities.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • A code analysis platform that identified security issues and code quality problems.
- • Powered by CodeQL technology, it integrated with GitHub for continuous analysis.
Checkmarx
Application security testing platform
Best for you if:
- • Checkmarx is an enterprise application security testing platform for finding vulnerabilities in code
- • It provides SAST, SCA, and DAST scanning integrated into CI/CD pipelines
| At a Glance |  LGTM |  Checkmarx |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | Paid |
Best For | Security | Security |
Rating | - | - |
Choose LGTM or Checkmarx?
Choose LGTM if
Code analysis platform integrated into GitHub for identifying security vulnerabilities.
- Integrated directly into GitHub for seamless workflow (now via GitHub code scanning)
- Utilized powerful CodeQL analysis engine
- Automated detection of security issues
- You want a fully free tool (Checkmarx requires payment)
Choose Checkmarx if
Application security testing platform
- Enterprise SAST
- Good vulnerability detection
- CI/CD integration
| Feature | LGTM | Checkmarx |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.2/5 65 reviews |
| Categories | SecurityDeveloper Tools | SecurityDeveloper Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
LGTM
Code analysis platform integrated into GitHub for identifying security vulnerabilities.
Strengths
- +Integrated directly into GitHub for seamless workflow (now via GitHub code scanning)
- +Utilized powerful CodeQL analysis engine
- +Automated detection of security issues
- +Provided code quality insights
Weaknesses
- -No longer available as a standalone product
- -Requires migration to GitHub code scanning for continued use of its core functionality
- -Advanced build configurations might require manual migration effort
Key features
Checkmarx
Application security testing platform
Strengths
- +Enterprise SAST
- +Good vulnerability detection
- +CI/CD integration
- +Compliance support
- +Many languages
Weaknesses
- -Very expensive
- -False positives
- -Learning curve
- -Complex setup
- -Slow scans
Key features
Pricing: LGTM vs Checkmarx
| Plan | LGTM | Checkmarx |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | N/A | custom Essentials |
| Tier 2 | N/A | custom Professional |
| Tier 3 | N/A | custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on LGTM pricing and Checkmarx pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
LGTM is free. Checkmarx is paid.
Go with: LGTM
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: LGTM
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Checkmarx
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
LGTM is free. Checkmarx is paid. Go with LGTM if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are security tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Checkmarx
- Our pick for this comparison
LGTM
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Checkmarx is our pick. That said, LGTM is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LGTM or Checkmarx better?
Checkmarx is rated in our evaluation. LGTM is free and Checkmarx is paid.
What are LGTM and Checkmarx used for?
LGTM: Code analysis platform integrated into GitHub for identifying security vulnerabilities.. Checkmarx: Application security testing platform.
What does LGTM cost vs Checkmarx?
LGTM is completely free. Checkmarx is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.