smallstep vs Auth0: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between smallstep and Auth0 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:
smallstep
Zero-trust access and certificate management
Best for you if:
- • You need automation features specifically
- • smallstep is an open-source certificate management platform
- • It provides automated TLS certificates for internal infrastructure
Auth0
Identity platform for developers
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Industry-leading identity platform
- • Authentication and authorization as a service
| At a Glance |  smallstep |  Auth0 |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Automation | API Tools |
Rating | 82/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | smallstep | Auth0 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AutomationIdentity & Access | API ToolsIdentity & Access |
How smallstep and Auth0 Compare
smallstep
Zero-trust access and certificate management
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Auth0
Identity platform for developers
Free tier available · 88/100 score
smallstep is a automation tool. Auth0 is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: smallstep
Want the highest-rated option?
smallstep: 82/100. Auth0: 88/100.
Go with: Auth0
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Auth0
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?
smallstep is a automation tool. Auth0 is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Auth0 scores higher: 88/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Auth0
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 82
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
smallstep
- Better fit for automation
The Bottom Line
Auth0 (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is smallstep or Auth0 better?
Auth0 scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are smallstep and Auth0 used for?
smallstep: Zero-trust access and certificate management. Auth0: Identity platform for developers.
What does smallstep cost vs Auth0?
smallstep is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Auth0 is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.