Refuse vs Semgrep: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Refuse and Semgrep 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:
Refuse
Block vulnerable package installs across your dev and CI/CD
Best for you if:
- • You need security features specifically
- • Blocks vulnerable package installations across 21 ecosystems.
- • Offers both hosted and self-hosted deployment options.
Semgrep
Static analysis for finding bugs
Best for you if:
- • You need developer tools features specifically
- • Semgrep is a code analysis tool for finding bugs and enforcing standards
- • It scans code with lightweight pattern matching for security and quality
| At a Glance |  Refuse |  Semgrep |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Security | Developer Tools |
Rating | - | 4.6/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Refuse or Semgrep?
Choose Refuse if
Block vulnerable package installs across your dev and CI/CD
- Significantly enhances software supply chain security by preventing vulnerable package installations.
- Supports a broad range of package managers and development environments.
- Offers flexible deployment options including a free self-hosted solution and a generous free hosted tier.
- Your work is security-shaped, not developer tools-shaped
Choose Semgrep if
Static analysis for finding bugs
- Code analysis tool
- Good pattern matching
- Multi-language
- Your work is developer tools-shaped, not security-shaped
| Feature | Refuse | Semgrep |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.6/5 54 reviews |
| Categories | SecurityDeveloper Tools | Developer ToolsSecurity |
In-Depth Analysis
Refuse
Block vulnerable package installs across your dev and CI/CD
Strengths
- +Significantly enhances software supply chain security by preventing vulnerable package installations.
- +Supports a broad range of package managers and development environments.
- +Offers flexible deployment options including a free self-hosted solution and a generous free hosted tier.
- +Provides specific safe version suggestions when blocking vulnerable packages.
- +Easy to install and integrate into existing workflows (shell, CI/CD, agents).
Weaknesses
- -Requires an additional step in the package installation workflow, which might introduce a slight overhead.
- -The hosted Pro tier with higher scan limits is planned for future release.
Key features
Semgrep
Static analysis for finding bugs
Strengths
- +Code analysis tool
- +Good pattern matching
- +Multi-language
- +Active development
- +Good for security
Weaknesses
- -Learning curve
- -Enterprise features paid
- -False positives
- -Configuration needed
- -Resource usage
Key features
Pricing: Refuse vs Semgrep
| Plan | Refuse | Semgrep |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0/ forever OSS / Self-host | Free Community |
| Tier 2 | $0/ forever Hosted Free | $40 Teams |
| Tier 3 | $5/ month Hosted Pro | Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Refuse pricing and Semgrep pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Refuse
Want the highest-rated option?
Semgrep is rated 4.6/5. Refuse has no ratings yet.
Go with: Semgrep
Value user reviews?
Refuse: no ratings yet. Semgrep: 54 reviews (4.6/5).
Go with: Semgrep
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?
Refuse is a security tool. Semgrep is in developer tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Semgrep is rated 4.6/5; Refuse has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Semgrep
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Refuse
- Better fit for security
The Bottom Line
Semgrep is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Refuse or Semgrep better?
Semgrep is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Refuse and Semgrep used for?
Refuse: Block vulnerable package installs across your dev and CI/CD. Semgrep: Static analysis for finding bugs.
What does Refuse cost vs Semgrep?
Refuse is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Semgrep is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.