mkcert vs Auth0: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between mkcert and Auth0 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:
mkcert
Create local trusted dev certificates
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • mkcert is a tool for creating locally-trusted development certificates
- • It generates TLS certificates for localhost without complex setup
Auth0
Identity platform for developers
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.5/10)
- • Industry-leading identity platform
- • Authentication and authorization as a service
| At a Glance |  mkcert |  Auth0 |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | 85/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | mkcert | Auth0 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsTerminal Tools | API ToolsIdentity & Access |
How mkcert and Auth0 Compare
mkcert
Create local trusted dev certificates
Free · 85/100 score
Auth0
Identity platform for developers
Free tier available · 88/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
mkcert is free. Auth0 is freemium.
Go with: mkcert
Want the highest-rated option?
mkcert: 85/100. Auth0: 88/100.
Go with: Auth0
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Auth0
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
mkcert is free. Auth0 is freemium. Go with mkcert if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are api tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Auth0 scores higher: 88/100 vs 85/100.
Key Takeaways
Auth0
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 85
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
mkcert
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Auth0 (88/100) is our pick. That said, mkcert is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mkcert or Auth0 better?
Auth0 scores 88/100 in our evaluation. mkcert is free and Auth0 is freemium.
What are mkcert and Auth0 used for?
mkcert: Create local trusted dev certificates. Auth0: Identity platform for developers.
What does mkcert cost vs Auth0?
mkcert is completely free. Auth0 is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.