smallstep vs Hanko: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between smallstep and Hanko 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:
smallstep
Zero-trust access and certificate management
Best for you if:
- • smallstep is an open-source certificate management platform
- • It provides automated TLS certificates for internal infrastructure
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Best for you if:
- • Hanko is an open-source authentication solution with passkey support
- • It provides passwordless login using WebAuthn with drop-in authentication UI
| At a Glance |  smallstep |  Hanko |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Custom/moEnterprise | $29/moPro |
Best For | Security | Security |
Rating | - | - |
Choose smallstep or Hanko?
Choose smallstep if
Zero-trust access and certificate management
- Zero trust security
- Certificate management
- Open source option
Choose Hanko if
Open-source authentication with passkeys
- Passwordless auth
- Open source
- Self-hostable
| Feature | smallstep | Hanko |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.2/5 10 reviews | No ratings yet |
| Categories | SecurityDeveloper Tools | SecurityIdentity & Access |
In-Depth Analysis
smallstep
Zero-trust access and certificate management
Strengths
- +Zero trust security
- +Certificate management
- +Open source option
- +Active development
- +Good documentation
Weaknesses
- -Learning curve
- -Complex setup
- -Enterprise features paid
- -Smaller community
- -Niche use case
Key features
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Strengths
- +Passwordless auth
- +Open source
- +Self-hostable
- +Passkey support
- +Good documentation
Weaknesses
- -Newer platform
- -Limited features
- -Community smaller
- -Enterprise features paid
- -Integration effort
Key features
Pricing: smallstep vs Hanko
| Plan | smallstep | Hanko |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Custom Enterprise | Free Starter |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $29 Pro |
| Tier 3 | N/A | Custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on smallstep pricing and Hanko pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: smallstep
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
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?
Both are security tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
smallstep
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Hanko
- Choose if you want open-source authentication with passkeys
The Bottom Line
smallstep is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is smallstep or Hanko better?
smallstep is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are smallstep and Hanko used for?
smallstep: Zero-trust access and certificate management. Hanko: Open-source authentication with passkeys.
What does smallstep cost vs Hanko?
smallstep is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Hanko is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.