mkcert vs Hanko: Which Should You Choose 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.
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 want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • 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:
- • 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 |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | 85/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | mkcert | Hanko |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsTerminal Tools | API ToolsPassword Managers |
How mkcert and Hanko Compare
mkcert
Create local trusted dev certificates
Free · 85/100 score
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
mkcert is free. Hanko is freemium.
Go with: mkcert
Want the highest-rated option?
mkcert: 85/100. Hanko: 80/100.
Go with: mkcert
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: mkcert
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?
Both are api tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
mkcert scores higher: 85/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
mkcert
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 80
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Hanko
The Bottom Line
mkcert (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mkcert or Hanko better?
mkcert scores 85/100 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.