mkcert vs Hanko: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between mkcert 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.
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
- • You need developer tools features specifically
- • mkcert is a tool for creating locally-trusted development certificates
- • It generates TLS certificates for localhost without complex setup
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Best for you if:
- • You need security features specifically
- • Hanko is an open-source authentication solution with passkey support
- • It provides passwordless login using WebAuthn with drop-in authentication UI
| At a Glance |  mkcert |  Hanko |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Developer Tools | Security |
Rating | - | - |
Choose mkcert or Hanko?
Choose mkcert if
Create local trusted dev certificates
- Local SSL certificates
- Easy to use
- No configuration
- You want a fully free tool (Hanko requires payment)
- Your work is developer tools-shaped, not security-shaped
Choose Hanko if
Open-source authentication with passkeys
- Passwordless auth
- Open source
- Self-hostable
- Your work is security-shaped, not developer tools-shaped
| Feature | mkcert | Hanko |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Categories | Developer ToolsSecurity | SecurityIdentity & Access |
In-Depth Analysis
mkcert
Create local trusted dev certificates
Strengths
- +Local SSL certificates
- +Easy to use
- +No configuration
- +Cross-platform
- +Good for dev
Weaknesses
- -Dev only
- -Security considerations
- -Limited features
- -Manual renewal
- -Niche tool
Key features
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Strengths
- +Passwordless auth
- +Open source
- +Self-hostable
- +Passkey support
- +Good documentation
Weaknesses
- -Newer platform
- -Limited features
- -Community smaller
- -Enterprise features paid
- -Integration effort
Key features
Pricing: mkcert vs Hanko
| Plan | mkcert | Hanko |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | N/A | 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 mkcert pricing and Hanko pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
mkcert is free. Hanko is freemium.
Go with: mkcert
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has ratings yet.
Too early to call on ratings — compare on features and pricing.
Value user reviews?
Neither has ratings yet.
Too early to call — neither has ratings yet.
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
mkcert is free. Hanko is freemium. Go with mkcert if free matters most.
What's your use case?
mkcert is a developer tools tool. Hanko is in security. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
mkcert
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Hanko
- Better fit for security
The Bottom Line
mkcert is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mkcert or Hanko better?
mkcert is rated in our evaluation. mkcert is free and Hanko is freemium.
What are mkcert and Hanko used for?
mkcert: Create local trusted dev certificates. Hanko: Open-source authentication with passkeys.
What does mkcert cost vs Hanko?
mkcert is completely free. Hanko is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.