Tenable vs Socket: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Tenable and Socket 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:
Tenable
Unify security visibility, insight, and action across your entire attack surface with AI-powered exposure management.
Best for you if:
- • Unifies security visibility and action across the entire attack surface.
- • Uses AI to prioritize and manage cyber exposures, including AI-specific risks.
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
- • Secures software supply chains by detecting malicious and vulnerable dependencies.
- • Uses AI and reachability analysis to reduce false positives and prioritize real risks.
| At a Glance |  Tenable |  Socket |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Vulnerability Scanning | Vulnerability Scanning |
Rating | —/100 | 89/100 |
| Feature | Tenable | Socket |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 89 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Vulnerability ScanningSecurity Monitoring | Vulnerability ScanningSecurity Monitoring |
How Tenable and Socket Compare
Tenable
Unify security visibility, insight, and action across your entire attack surface with AI-powered exposure management.
Paid
Socket
Secure your dependencies and ship with confidence.
Free tier available · 89/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Socket has a free tier. Tenable is paid only.
Go with: Socket
Want the highest-rated option?
Socket scores 89/100. Tenable 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?
Tenable is paid. Socket is freemium. Socket lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are vulnerability scanning tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
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
Tenable
The Bottom Line
Socket (89/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tenable or Socket better?
Socket scores 89/100 in our evaluation. Tenable is paid and Socket is freemium.
What are Tenable and Socket used for?
Tenable: Unify security visibility, insight, and action across your entire attack surface with AI-powered exposure management.. Socket: Secure your dependencies and ship with confidence..
What does Tenable cost vs Socket?
Tenable is a paid tool. Socket is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.