Stack Auth vs Authelia: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Stack Auth and Authelia 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Stack Auth
Open-source authentication and user management for developers, designed for rapid integration and flexibility.
Best for you if:
- • Open-source authentication and user management suite.
- • Offers features like RBAC, organizations, and 3rd-party OAuth.
Authelia
Open-source authentication and authorization server
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • Authelia is an open-source authentication server providing SSO and 2FA for applications
- • It works as a reverse proxy companion to protect internal services with access control
| At a Glance |  Authelia | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Identity & Access | Identity & Access |
Rating | —/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Stack Auth | Authelia |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Identity & Access | Identity & AccessPassword Managers |
Understanding the Differences
Both Stack Auth and Authelia solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Stack Auth positions itself as "open-source authentication and user management for developers, designed for rapid integration and flexibility." while Autheliafocuses on "open-source authentication and authorization server". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Stack Auth
Stack Auth makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution.
When to Choose Authelia
Authelia is worth considering if you need a free tool. Scoring 80/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Stack Auth lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Stack Auth
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Authelia is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Authelia
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Authelia
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Zero budget? Authelia won't cost you anything.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Authelia higher (80/100). But the community has upvoted Authelia more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Authelia Does Better
- Higher overall score (80/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Stack Auth If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Authelia (80/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Authelia scores higher in our analysis, but Stack Auth might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stack Auth or Authelia better?
Based on our analysis, Authelia scores higher with 80/100. Stack Auth isfreemium while Authelia is free. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Stack Auth to Authelia easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Stack Auth and Authelia offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Stack Auth is freemium with a free tier.Authelia is completely free. Visit their websites for current trial offers.