UpGuard vs Qualys: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between UpGuard and Qualys 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:
UpGuard
The #1 Cyber Risk Posture Management Software Platform for comprehensive risk clarity.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Provides unified cyber risk management across vendors, attack surface, workforce, and trust.
- • Leverages AI for continuous monitoring, rapid assessments, and automated remediation.
Qualys
Cloud security and compliance platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • Qualys is a cloud security and compliance platform for enterprises
- • It provides vulnerability management, compliance monitoring, and web app security
| At a Glance |  UpGuard |  Qualys |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Vulnerability Scanning | Vulnerability Scanning |
Rating | —/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | UpGuard | Qualys |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Vulnerability ScanningSecurity Monitoring | Vulnerability ScanningSecurity Monitoring |
How UpGuard and Qualys Compare
UpGuard
The #1 Cyber Risk Posture Management Software Platform for comprehensive risk clarity.
Free tier available
Qualys
Cloud security and compliance platform
Paid · 82/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
UpGuard has a free tier. Qualys is paid only.
Go with: UpGuard
Want the highest-rated option?
Qualys scores 82/100. UpGuard is unrated.
Go with: Qualys
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Qualys
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
UpGuard is freemium. Qualys is paid. UpGuard 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
Qualys
- Higher score: 82/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
UpGuard
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Qualys (82/100) is our pick. UpGuard has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is UpGuard or Qualys better?
Qualys scores 82/100 in our evaluation. UpGuard is freemium and Qualys is paid.
What are UpGuard and Qualys used for?
UpGuard: The #1 Cyber Risk Posture Management Software Platform for comprehensive risk clarity.. Qualys: Cloud security and compliance platform.
What does UpGuard cost vs Qualys?
UpGuard is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Qualys is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.