Semgrep vs Checkmarx: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Semgrep 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:
Semgrep
Static analysis for finding bugs
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need ide & code editors 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
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 |  Semgrep |  Checkmarx |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | Code Review |
Rating | 88/100 | 78/100 |
| Feature | Semgrep | Checkmarx |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 78 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsTesting & QA | Code ReviewTesting & QA |
How Semgrep and Checkmarx Compare
Semgrep
Static analysis for finding bugs
Free tier available · 88/100 score
Checkmarx
Application security testing platform
Paid · 78/100 score
Semgrep is a ide & code editors tool. Checkmarx is in code review.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Semgrep has a free tier. Checkmarx is paid only.
Go with: Semgrep
Want the highest-rated option?
Semgrep: 88/100. Checkmarx: 78/100.
Go with: Semgrep
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Semgrep
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Semgrep is freemium. Checkmarx is paid. Semgrep lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Semgrep is a ide & code editors tool. Checkmarx is in code review. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Semgrep scores higher: 88/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
Semgrep
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 78
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Checkmarx
- Better fit for code review
The Bottom Line
Semgrep (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Semgrep or Checkmarx better?
Semgrep scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Semgrep is freemium and Checkmarx is paid.
What are Semgrep and Checkmarx used for?
Semgrep: Static analysis for finding bugs. Checkmarx: Application security testing platform.
What does Semgrep cost vs Checkmarx?
Semgrep is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Checkmarx is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.