Stytch vs Hanko: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Stytch and Hanko 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:
Stytch
Authentication infrastructure for developers
Best for you if:
- • You need identity & access features specifically
- • Stytch is an authentication platform with passwordless options
- • It provides magic links, OAuth, and biometrics for user login
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Best for you if:
- • You need security features specifically
- • Hanko is an open-source authentication solution with passkey support
- • It provides passwordless login using WebAuthn with drop-in authentication UI
| At a Glance |  Stytch |  Hanko |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $0.05/MAUPro | $29/moPro |
Best For | Identity & Access | Security |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Stytch or Hanko?
Choose Stytch if
Authentication infrastructure for developers
- Passwordless auth
- Good documentation
- Active development
- Your work is identity & access-shaped, not security-shaped
Choose Hanko if
Open-source authentication with passkeys
- Passwordless auth
- Open source
- Self-hostable
- Your work is security-shaped, not identity & access-shaped
| Feature | Stytch | Hanko |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.8/5 37 reviews | No ratings yet |
| Categories | Identity & AccessAPI Tools | SecurityIdentity & Access |
In-Depth Analysis
Stytch
Authentication infrastructure for developers
Strengths
- +Passwordless auth
- +Good documentation
- +Active development
- +Good features
- +Developer friendly
Weaknesses
- -Per-MAU pricing
- -Can get expensive
- -Learning curve
- -Vendor lock-in
- -Better alternatives exist
Key features
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Strengths
- +Passwordless auth
- +Open source
- +Self-hostable
- +Passkey support
- +Good documentation
Weaknesses
- -Newer platform
- -Limited features
- -Community smaller
- -Enterprise features paid
- -Integration effort
Key features
Pricing: Stytch vs Hanko
| Plan | Stytch | Hanko |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Starter |
| Tier 2 | $0.05 /MAU Pro | $29 Pro |
| Tier 3 | custom Enterprise | Custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Stytch pricing and Hanko pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Stytch
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Stytch
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Stytch
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?
Stytch is a identity & access tool. Hanko is in security. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Stytch
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Hanko
- Better fit for security
The Bottom Line
Stytch is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stytch or Hanko better?
Stytch is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Stytch and Hanko used for?
Stytch: Authentication infrastructure for developers. Hanko: Open-source authentication with passkeys.
What does Stytch cost vs Hanko?
Stytch is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Hanko is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.