OWASP ZAP vs Burp Suite: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between OWASP ZAP and Burp Suite 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.
Bottom line: Burp Suite wins this matchup. Testing Library is our overall Testing & QA pick. Testing Library is our free Testing & QA pick. Pick OWASP ZAP if you need a fully free option.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
OWASP ZAP
Open-source web application security scanner
Best for you if:
- • You want a fully free tool (Burp Suite requires payment)
- • You want free security scanner
- • You want good for web apps
Burp Suite
Web security testing toolkit for penetration testers
Best for you if:
- • You want industry standard security testing
- • You want comprehensive features
| At a Glance | OWASP ZAP | Burp Suite |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $449/yearProfessional |
Best For | Security | Security |
Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.9/5 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose OWASP ZAP or Burp Suite?
Choose OWASP ZAP if
Open-source web application security scanner
- You want a fully free tool (Burp Suite requires payment)
- You want free security scanner
- You want good for web apps
Choose Burp Suite if
Web security testing toolkit for penetration testers
- You want industry standard security testing
- You want comprehensive features
| Feature | OWASP ZAP | Burp Suite |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.7/5 14 reviews | ★4.9/5 158 reviews |
| Categories | SecurityTesting & QA | SecurityDeveloper Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
OWASP ZAP
Open-source web application security scanner
OWASP ZAP's pricing is exceptionally generous, being entirely free.
Strengths
- +Free security scanner
- +Good for web apps
- +Active community
- +CI/CD integration
- +Open source
Weaknesses
- -Learning curve
- -False positives
- -Performance varies
- -UI dated
- -Configuration needed
Key features
Burp Suite
Web security testing toolkit for penetration testers
Burp Suite's pricing is fair, offering a free Community edition for basic needs and a robust Professional tier at $449/year.
Strengths
- +Industry standard security testing
- +Comprehensive features
- +Good extensions
- +Active development
- +Community edition free
Weaknesses
- -Pro version expensive
- -Learning curve
- -Heavy application
- -Complex for beginners
- -Java dependency
Key features
Pricing: OWASP ZAP vs Burp Suite
| Plan | OWASP ZAP | Burp Suite |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Community |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $449 year Professional |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on OWASP ZAP pricing and Burp Suite pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
OWASP ZAP is free. Burp Suite is paid.
Go with: OWASP ZAP
Want the highest-rated option?
OWASP ZAP: 4.7/5 (14 reviews). Burp Suite: 4.9/5 (158 reviews).
Go with: Burp Suite
Value user reviews?
OWASP ZAP: 14 reviews (4.7/5). Burp Suite: 158 reviews (4.9/5).
Go with: Burp Suite
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
OWASP ZAP is free. Burp Suite is paid. Go with OWASP ZAP if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are security tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Burp Suite is rated higher: 4.9/5 vs 4.7/5.
Key Takeaways
Burp Suite
- Higher user rating: 4.9/5 vs 4.7/5
- Larger review base (158 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
OWASP ZAP
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Burp Suite wins this matchup. Testing Library is our overall Testing & QA pick. Testing Library is our free Testing & QA pick. That said, OWASP ZAP is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OWASP ZAP or Burp Suite better?
Burp Suite is rated in our evaluation. OWASP ZAP is free and Burp Suite is paid.
What are OWASP ZAP and Burp Suite used for?
OWASP ZAP: Open-source web application security scanner. Burp Suite: Web security testing toolkit for penetration testers.
What does OWASP ZAP cost vs Burp Suite?
OWASP ZAP is completely free. Burp Suite is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.