Ory vs Hanko: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Ory 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:
Ory
Open-source identity infrastructure
Best for you if:
- • You need developer tools features specifically
- • Ory is an open-source identity infrastructure platform
- • It provides authentication, authorization, and user management APIs
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 |  Ory |  Hanko |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $29/monthGrowth | $29/moPro |
Best For | Developer Tools | Security |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Ory or Hanko?
Choose Ory if
Open-source identity infrastructure
- Open source identity
- Self-hostable
- Good documentation
- 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 | Ory | Hanko |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 33 reviews | No ratings yet |
| Categories | Developer ToolsIdentity & Access | SecurityIdentity & Access |
In-Depth Analysis
Ory
Open-source identity infrastructure
Strengths
- +Open source identity
- +Self-hostable
- +Good documentation
- +Active development
- +Cloud option
Weaknesses
- -Learning curve
- -Setup complexity
- -Enterprise features paid
- -Smaller community
- -Multiple products confusing
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: Ory vs Hanko
| Plan | Ory | Hanko |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Starter |
| Tier 2 | $29 month Growth | $29 Pro |
| Tier 3 | custom Enterprise | Custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Ory pricing and Hanko pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Ory
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Ory
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Ory
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Ory is a developer tools tool. Hanko is in security. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Ory
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Hanko
- Better fit for security
The Bottom Line
Ory is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ory or Hanko better?
Ory is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Ory and Hanko used for?
Ory: Open-source identity infrastructure. Hanko: Open-source authentication with passkeys.
What does Ory cost vs Hanko?
Ory is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Hanko is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.