smallstep vs Ory: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between smallstep and Ory 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
Ory
Open-source identity infrastructure
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Ory is an open-source identity infrastructure platform
- • It provides authentication, authorization, and user management APIs
| At a Glance |  smallstep |  Ory |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Automation | API Tools |
Rating | 82/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | smallstep | Ory |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AutomationIdentity & Access | API ToolsHosting & Deployment |
How smallstep and Ory Compare
smallstep
Zero-trust access and certificate management
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Ory
Open-source identity infrastructure
Free tier available · 86/100 score
smallstep is a automation tool. Ory 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. Ory: 86/100.
Go with: Ory
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Ory
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. Ory is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Ory scores higher: 86/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Ory
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 82
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
smallstep
- Better fit for automation
The Bottom Line
Ory (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is smallstep or Ory better?
Ory scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are smallstep and Ory used for?
smallstep: Zero-trust access and certificate management. Ory: Open-source identity infrastructure.
What does smallstep cost vs Ory?
smallstep is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Ory is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.