smallstep vs Zitadel: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between smallstep and Zitadel 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
Zitadel
Open-source identity management
Best for you if:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Zitadel is an open-source identity management platform
- • It provides authentication, authorization, and user management
| At a Glance |  smallstep |  Zitadel |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Automation | API Tools |
Rating | 82/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | smallstep | Zitadel |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 82 |
| 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 Zitadel Compare
smallstep
Zero-trust access and certificate management
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Zitadel
Open-source identity management
Free tier available · 82/100 score
smallstep is a automation tool. Zitadel 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. Zitadel: 82/100.
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. Zitadel is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Both score 82/100.
Key Takeaways
smallstep
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Zitadel
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
smallstep (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is smallstep or Zitadel better?
smallstep scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are smallstep and Zitadel used for?
smallstep: Zero-trust access and certificate management. Zitadel: Open-source identity management.
What does smallstep cost vs Zitadel?
smallstep is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Zitadel is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.