Stytch vs Keycloak: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Stytch and Keycloak 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.
Bottom line: Keycloak wins this matchup. LastPass is our overall Identity & Access pick. LastPass is our free Identity & Access pick. Pick Stytch if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
Based on published vendor pricing and features and on public review data, here's who should pick what:
Stytch
Authentication infrastructure for developers
Best for you if:
- • You want passwordless auth
Keycloak
Open-source identity and access management
Best for you if:
- • You want a fully free tool (Stytch requires payment)
| At a Glance | Stytch | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free Free plan | Free 100% free |
Category | Identity & Access API Tools | Identity & Access Security |
Rating | 4.8/5 G2 4.8 37 reviews | n/a |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Watch out for | No explicit mention of overage fees beyond MAU | n/a |
Choose Stytch or Keycloak?
Choose Stytch if
- You want passwordless auth
- You want good documentation
Choose Keycloak if
- You want a fully free tool (Stytch requires payment)
- You want open source identity
- You want self-hostable
In-Depth Analysis
Stytch
Authentication infrastructure for developers
Stytch's pricing is quite fair and generous, especially with a robust free tier offering 5,000 MAUs.
Watch out
No explicit mention of overage fees beyond MAU
Strengths
- Pro: Passwordless auth
- Pro: Good documentation
- Pro: Active development
- Pro: Good features
- Pro: Developer friendly
Weaknesses
- Con: Per-MAU pricing
- Con: Can get expensive
- Con: Learning curve
- Con: Vendor lock-in
- Con: Better alternatives exist
Key features
Keycloak
Open-source identity and access management
Keycloak's pricing is exceptionally generous, being entirely free as an open-source solution.
Strengths
- Pro: Open source identity
- Pro: Self-hostable
- Pro: Feature rich
- Pro: No per-user cost
- Pro: Enterprise ready
Weaknesses
- Con: Complex to set up
- Con: Requires maintenance
- Con: Learning curve
- Con: Java-based
- Con: UI dated
Key features
Pricing: Stytch vs Keycloak
| Plan | Stytch | Keycloak |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Open Source |
| Tier 2 | $0.05 /MAU Pro | N/A |
| Tier 3 | custom Enterprise | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Stytch pricing and Keycloak pricing.
Key Takeaways
Keycloak
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Stytch
- Choose if you want authentication infrastructure for developers
The Bottom Line
Keycloak wins this matchup. LastPass is our overall Identity & Access pick. LastPass is our free Identity & Access pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stytch or Keycloak better in 2026?
Keycloak wins this matchup. LastPass is our overall Identity & Access pick. LastPass is our free Identity & Access pick. Pick Stytch for identity & access workflows (main strength: passwordless auth). Pick Keycloak for identity & access workflows (main strength: open source identity).
What are Stytch and Keycloak used for?
Stytch: Authentication infrastructure for developers. Keycloak: Open-source identity and access management.
What does Stytch cost vs Keycloak?
Stytch's paid plans start at Free (Pro). Keycloak is free.
What's the main difference between Stytch and Keycloak?
Stytch's main strength: passwordless auth. Keycloak's main strength: open source identity.