Qualys vs Checkmarx: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Qualys and Checkmarx 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:
Qualys
Cloud security and compliance platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • You need vulnerability scanning features specifically
- • Qualys is a cloud security and compliance platform for enterprises
- • It provides vulnerability management, compliance monitoring, and web app security
Checkmarx
Application security testing platform
Best for you if:
- • You need code review features specifically
- • Checkmarx is an enterprise application security testing platform for finding vulnerabilities in code
- • It provides SAST, SCA, and DAST scanning integrated into CI/CD pipelines
| At a Glance |  Qualys |  Checkmarx |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Vulnerability Scanning | Code Review |
Rating | 82/100 | 78/100 |
| Feature | Qualys | Checkmarx |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 78 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Vulnerability ScanningSecurity Monitoring | Code ReviewTesting & QA |
How Qualys and Checkmarx Compare
Qualys
Cloud security and compliance platform
Paid · 82/100 score
Checkmarx
Application security testing platform
Paid · 78/100 score
Qualys is a vulnerability scanning tool. Checkmarx is in code review.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Qualys
Want the highest-rated option?
Qualys: 82/100. Checkmarx: 78/100.
Go with: Qualys
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Qualys
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Qualys is a vulnerability scanning tool. Checkmarx is in code review. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Qualys scores higher: 82/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
Qualys
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 78
- Our pick for this comparison
Checkmarx
- Better fit for code review
The Bottom Line
Qualys (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Qualys or Checkmarx better?
Qualys scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Qualys and Checkmarx used for?
Qualys: Cloud security and compliance platform. Checkmarx: Application security testing platform.
What does Qualys cost vs Checkmarx?
Qualys is a paid tool. Checkmarx is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.