smallstep vs Firebase Authentication: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between smallstep and Firebase Authentication 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 want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need automation features specifically
- • smallstep is an open-source certificate management platform
- • It provides automated TLS certificates for internal infrastructure
Firebase Authentication
Backend authentication by Google
Best for you if:
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • Backend authentication service
- • Multiple sign-in methods
| At a Glance |  smallstep |  Firebase Authentication |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Automation | Low-Code Backend |
Rating | 82/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | smallstep | Firebase Authentication |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AutomationIdentity & Access | Low-Code BackendIdentity & Access |
How smallstep and Firebase Authentication Compare
smallstep
Zero-trust access and certificate management
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Firebase Authentication
Backend authentication by Google
Free tier available
smallstep is a automation tool. Firebase Authentication is in low-code backend.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: smallstep
Want the highest-rated option?
smallstep scores 82/100. Firebase Authentication is unrated.
Go with: smallstep
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: smallstep
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. Firebase Authentication is in low-code backend. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
smallstep
- Higher score: 82/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Firebase Authentication
- Better fit for low-code backend
The Bottom Line
smallstep (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is smallstep or Firebase Authentication better?
smallstep scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are smallstep and Firebase Authentication used for?
smallstep: Zero-trust access and certificate management. Firebase Authentication: Backend authentication by Google.
What does smallstep cost vs Firebase Authentication?
smallstep is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Firebase Authentication is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.