smallstep vs Hanko: Which Should You Choose 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.
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 8.0/10)
- • You need automation features specifically
- • 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:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • 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 |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Automation | API Tools |
Rating | 82/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | smallstep | Hanko |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AutomationIdentity & Access | API ToolsPassword Managers |
How smallstep and Hanko Compare
smallstep
Zero-trust access and certificate management
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Free tier available · 80/100 score
smallstep is a automation tool. Hanko 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. Hanko: 80/100.
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. Hanko is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
smallstep scores higher: 82/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
smallstep
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Hanko
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
smallstep (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is smallstep or Hanko better?
smallstep scores 82/100 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.