Socket vs Expel: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Socket and Expel 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:
Socket
Secure your dependencies and ship with confidence.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.9/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need vulnerability scanning features specifically
- • Secures software supply chains by detecting malicious and vulnerable dependencies.
- • Uses AI and reachability analysis to reduce false positives and prioritize real risks.
Expel
Human-led, AI-supported Managed Detection & Response (MDR) security services that integrate with your existing tools.
Best for you if:
- • You need security monitoring features specifically
- • Provides 24x7 human-led, AI-supported Managed Detection & Response (MDR) services.
- • Integrates with over 160 existing security tools, avoiding rip-and-replace of current tech.
| At a Glance |  Socket |  Expel |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Vulnerability Scanning | Security Monitoring |
Rating | 89/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Socket | Expel |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 89 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Vulnerability ScanningSecurity Monitoring | Security Monitoring |
How Socket and Expel Compare
Socket
Secure your dependencies and ship with confidence.
Free tier available · 89/100 score
Expel
Human-led, AI-supported Managed Detection & Response (MDR) security services that integrate with your existing tools.
Paid
Socket is a vulnerability scanning tool. Expel is in security monitoring.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Socket has a free tier. Expel is paid only.
Go with: Socket
Want the highest-rated option?
Socket scores 89/100. Expel is unrated.
Go with: Socket
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Socket
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Socket is freemium. Expel is paid. Socket lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Socket is a vulnerability scanning tool. Expel is in security monitoring. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Socket
- Higher score: 89/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Expel
- Better fit for security monitoring
The Bottom Line
Socket (89/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Socket or Expel better?
Socket scores 89/100 in our evaluation. Socket is freemium and Expel is paid.
What are Socket and Expel used for?
Socket: Secure your dependencies and ship with confidence.. Expel: Human-led, AI-supported Managed Detection & Response (MDR) security services that integrate with your existing tools..
What does Socket cost vs Expel?
Socket is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Expel is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.