RuboCop vs Semgrep: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between RuboCop 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.
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:
RuboCop
Ruby static code analyzer and formatter
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • RuboCop is a Ruby linter and code formatter enforcing style guidelines
- • It checks code against the Ruby Style Guide with auto-correction
Semgrep
Static analysis for finding bugs
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • 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 |  RuboCop |  Semgrep |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 80/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | RuboCop | Semgrep |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 80 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsCode Review | IDE & Code EditorsTesting & QA |
How RuboCop and Semgrep Compare
RuboCop
Ruby static code analyzer and formatter
Free · 80/100 score
Semgrep
Static analysis for finding bugs
Free tier available · 88/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
RuboCop is free. Semgrep is freemium.
Go with: RuboCop
Want the highest-rated option?
RuboCop: 80/100. Semgrep: 88/100.
Go with: Semgrep
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Semgrep
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
RuboCop is free. Semgrep is freemium. Go with RuboCop if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are ide & code editors tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Semgrep scores higher: 88/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Semgrep
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
RuboCop
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Semgrep (88/100) is our pick. That said, RuboCop is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is RuboCop or Semgrep better?
Semgrep scores 88/100 in our evaluation. RuboCop is free and Semgrep is freemium.
What are RuboCop and Semgrep used for?
RuboCop: Ruby static code analyzer and formatter. Semgrep: Static analysis for finding bugs.
What does RuboCop cost vs Semgrep?
RuboCop is completely free. Semgrep is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.