SonarCloud vs Checkmarx: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between SonarCloud and Checkmarx 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:
SonarCloud
Cloud code quality and security analysis
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • SonarCloud is a cloud-based code quality and security analysis service
- • It scans code for bugs, vulnerabilities, and code smells automatically
Checkmarx
Application security testing platform
Best for you if:
- • Checkmarx is an enterprise application security testing platform for finding vulnerabilities in code
- • It provides SAST, SCA, and DAST scanning integrated into CI/CD pipelines
| At a Glance |  SonarCloud |  Checkmarx |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Code Review | Code Review |
Rating | 84/100 | 78/100 |
| Feature | SonarCloud | Checkmarx |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 78 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Code ReviewTesting & QA | Code ReviewTesting & QA |
How SonarCloud and Checkmarx Compare
SonarCloud
Cloud code quality and security analysis
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Checkmarx
Application security testing platform
Paid · 78/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
SonarCloud has a free tier. Checkmarx is paid only.
Go with: SonarCloud
Want the highest-rated option?
SonarCloud: 84/100. Checkmarx: 78/100.
Go with: SonarCloud
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: SonarCloud
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
SonarCloud is freemium. Checkmarx is paid. SonarCloud lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are code review tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
SonarCloud scores higher: 84/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
SonarCloud
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 78
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Checkmarx
The Bottom Line
SonarCloud (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SonarCloud or Checkmarx better?
SonarCloud scores 84/100 in our evaluation. SonarCloud is freemium and Checkmarx is paid.
What are SonarCloud and Checkmarx used for?
SonarCloud: Cloud code quality and security analysis. Checkmarx: Application security testing platform.
What does SonarCloud cost vs Checkmarx?
SonarCloud is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Checkmarx is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.