Okta vs Zitadel: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Okta and Zitadel 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:
Okta
Enterprise identity management
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You need password managers features specifically
- • Okta is an enterprise identity platform for workforce and customer IAM
- • It provides SSO, MFA, lifecycle management, and API access management
Zitadel
Open-source identity management
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Zitadel is an open-source identity management platform
- • It provides authentication, authorization, and user management
| At a Glance |  Okta |  Zitadel |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Password Managers | API Tools |
Rating | 85/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Okta | Zitadel |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Password ManagersIdentity & Access | API ToolsHosting & Deployment |
How Okta and Zitadel Compare
Okta
Enterprise identity management
Paid · 85/100 score
Zitadel
Open-source identity management
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Okta is a password managers tool. Zitadel is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Zitadel has a free tier. Okta is paid only.
Go with: Zitadel
Want the highest-rated option?
Okta: 85/100. Zitadel: 82/100.
Go with: Okta
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Okta
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Okta is paid. Zitadel is freemium. Zitadel lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Okta is a password managers tool. Zitadel is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Okta scores higher: 85/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Okta
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 82
- Our pick for this comparison
Zitadel
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Okta (85/100) is our pick. Zitadel has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Okta or Zitadel better?
Okta scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Okta is paid and Zitadel is freemium.
What are Okta and Zitadel used for?
Okta: Enterprise identity management. Zitadel: Open-source identity management.
What does Okta cost vs Zitadel?
Okta is a paid tool. Zitadel is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.