Magic vs Tenderly: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Magic and Tenderly 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:
Magic
Passwordless authentication SDK
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need identity & access features specifically
- • Magic is a passwordless authentication SDK for web and mobile apps
- • It provides email-based login and wallet creation for Web3 applications
Tenderly
Accelerate on-chain velocity with a full-stack development platform for Web3 professionals.
Best for you if:
- • You need web3 infrastructure features specifically
- • Provides customizable Virtual TestNets for flexible Web3 development and testing.
- • Offers a powerful Developer Explorer with debugging, simulation, and gas profiling tools.
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Identity & Access | Web3 Infrastructure |
Rating | 80/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Magic | Tenderly |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 80 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Identity & AccessAPI Tools | Web3 InfrastructureBlockchain Development |
Understanding the Differences
Both Magic and Tenderly solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Magic positions itself as "passwordless authentication sdk" while Tenderlyfocuses on "accelerate on-chain velocity with a full-stack development platform for web3 professionals.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Magic
Magic makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 80/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Tenderly
Tenderly is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Magic lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Magic
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Magic handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Magic
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Magic
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Magic, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Magic higher (80/100). But the community has upvoted Tenderly more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Magic Does Better
- Higher overall score (80/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Tenderly If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Magic (80/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Magic scores higher in our analysis, but Tenderly might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Magic or Tenderly better?
Based on our analysis, Magic scores higher with 80/100. Magic isfreemium while Tenderly is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Magic to Tenderly easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Magic and Tenderly offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Magic is freemium with a free tier.Tenderly is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.